What's the Population of Great Falls, Montana: A practical guide
Great Falls, Montana, is a vibrant city nestled along the Missouri River in the heart of Montana. Plus, as of the most recent census data, the population of Great Falls, Montana is approximately 60,442 residents, making it the third-largest city in the state after Billings and Missoula. This figure represents a slight decline from previous decades, reflecting broader demographic shifts occurring in many mid-sized American cities. Understanding the population dynamics of Great Falls provides valuable insight into this historic Montana city's present and future trajectory.
Great Falls serves as the county seat of Cascade County and has long been an important economic and cultural hub in north-central Montana. The city's population has experienced significant fluctuations throughout its history, shaped by industrial development, military presence, and broader economic trends that have influenced migration patterns throughout the Mountain West region.
Historical Population Overview
The population history of Great Falls reflects the city's evolution from an industrial boomtown to a modern regional center. Understanding this historical context helps explain the current demographic landscape.
Early Development and Growth
Great Falls experienced rapid population growth during its early years. The city was founded in the late 1800s, primarily due to the exploitation of the Missouri River's hydroelectric potential and the development of copper smelting operations. The presence of the Great Falls of the Missouri River provided the water power necessary for industrial development, attracting workers and entrepreneurs seeking economic opportunities in the growing mining and manufacturing sectors Practical, not theoretical..
By 1910, the city had grown to approximately 13,000 residents, and this number continued to climb throughout the early twentieth century. Because of that, the population reached around 28,000 by 1930, reflecting the city's importance as an industrial center during the copper boom. World War II brought additional growth as the anode copper plant expanded operations, and Malmstrom Air Force Base, established in 1942, became a permanent fixture that would significantly influence the city's demographic composition for decades to come That alone is useful..
Post-War Population Trends
The mid-twentieth century saw continued population expansion. On the flip side, by 1960, Great Falls had grown to approximately 55,000 residents, and the city reached its peak population of around 62,000 in the early 1970s. This period represented the height of the city's industrial prominence, with the copper smelter, hydroelectric operations, and the military base all contributing to a solid local economy that attracted workers from across the region.
That said, beginning in the late 1970s and continuing into the 1980s, the population began to decline. The closure of the copper smelter in 1980 had a devastating impact on the local economy, leading to job losses and outmigration. This trend continued through the 1990s and 2000s, though at a slower pace, as the city worked to diversify its economic base and reduce its dependence on a single industry.
Current Population and Demographics
The current population of Great Falls, Montana, stands at approximately 60,442 residents according to the 2020 Census, with more recent estimates suggesting slight variations in this figure. Understanding the demographic composition provides a more complete picture of this Montana community.
Age Distribution
Great Falls has an aging population profile, consistent with many rural and suburban communities in the Mountain West. The median age in the city is approximately 40 years, with a significant portion of residents aged 55 and older. Even so, the city also maintains a substantial population of families with children, and the presence of Malmstrom Air Force Base brings in younger military personnel and their families, adding demographic diversity to the population It's one of those things that adds up..
The youth population, including those under 18, represents roughly 22% of the total population, while working-age adults between 18 and 64 make up approximately 58% of residents. Seniors aged 65 and older account for about 20% of the population, reflecting the national trend of aging baby boomers Surprisingly effective..
Racial and Ethnic Composition
The population of Great Falls is predominantly white, with approximately 85% of residents identifying as white alone in census data. Native American populations represent about 3% of residents, reflecting the historical presence of Indigenous peoples in the region. Smaller percentages of Hispanic or Latino residents, African American residents, and Asian residents make up the remaining demographic composition Which is the point..
The city has seen modest increases in diversity over recent decades, though it remains less diverse than many urban areas in the United States. This demographic profile is consistent with other cities in rural and semi-rural Montana, where historical settlement patterns and geographic isolation have influenced population composition.
Household and Family Structure
The average household size in Great Falls is approximately 2.3 persons, slightly below the national average. Approximately 45% of households consist of married couples, while single-person households represent a significant portion of the housing stock, particularly among older residents. The city has a moderate homeownership rate, with roughly 65% of residents owning their homes rather than renting No workaround needed..
Population Trends and Factors Affecting Growth
Several factors influence the population trends in Great Falls, Montana, and understanding these dynamics provides insight into the city's future trajectory.
Economic Factors
The local economy has a big impact in population retention and growth. Great Falls has historically relied on several key industries, including:
- Healthcare and social services: The medical sector has become increasingly important, with Benefis Health System serving as a major employer
- Military and defense: Malmstrom Air Force Base continues to provide stable employment and brings military families to the area
- Manufacturing and industry: Various manufacturing operations maintain a presence in the city
- Retail and services: The city serves as a regional shopping and service center for north-central Montana
Economic diversification efforts have helped stabilize the population, though challenges remain in attracting new businesses and retaining young workers who often seek opportunities in larger metropolitan areas It's one of those things that adds up..
Geographic and Lifestyle Factors
Great Falls offers a distinctive lifestyle that attracts certain populations while presenting challenges for others. The city provides access to outdoor recreation, including fishing, hunting, hiking, and winter sports, which appeals to residents who value proximity to natural amenities. The cost of living remains relatively affordable compared to many other cities in the western United States, and the community maintains a small-town feel while offering many amenities typically found in larger cities Nothing fancy..
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Still, the relatively remote location, cold winters, and limited cultural and entertainment options compared to larger metropolitan areas can influence migration patterns, particularly among younger residents seeking diverse experiences and career opportunities.
Educational Institutions
Great Falls is home to several educational institutions that contribute to the local population. Practically speaking, montana State University Great Falls College provides higher education opportunities, while the University of Great Falls offers additional post-secondary options. These institutions not only enroll students who temporarily increase the population but also graduate students who may choose to remain in the area, contributing to workforce development and population retention Simple, but easy to overlook..
Frequently Asked Questions About Great Falls Population
What is the current population of Great Falls, Montana?
As of the 2020 Census, Great Falls has a population of approximately 60,442 residents. More recent estimates suggest the population may have slightly decreased, though exact figures vary depending on data sources.
Is Great Falls growing or declining in population?
Great Falls has experienced modest population decline over the past several decades, primarily due to economic restructuring following the closure of the copper smelter and broader rural-to-urban migration trends. On the flip side, the rate of decline has slowed in recent years, and stabilization efforts are underway.
No fluff here — just what actually works.
What is the largest city in Montana?
Billings is the largest city in Montana, with a population of approximately 110,000. Missoula is the second-largest at around 75,000, and Great Falls ranks third.
Why is Great Falls called "Great Falls"?
The city is named after the Great Falls of the Missouri River, a series of five waterfalls that provided the hydroelectric power that fueled the city's early industrial development.
What percentage of Great Falls residents are military-connected?
Malmstrom Air Force Base employs thousands of military personnel and their families, with estimates suggesting that approximately 10-15% of the city's population has direct connections to the base.
What is the population density of Great Falls?
The population density is approximately 2,200 people per square mile, making it relatively dense compared to other Montana cities but considerably less dense than metropolitan areas in other states Took long enough..
Conclusion
The population of Great Falls, Montana, currently stands at approximately 60,442 residents, representing the state's third-largest city. Worth adding: this figure reflects a rich history of industrial development, military presence, and ongoing efforts to adapt to changing economic conditions. While the city has experienced population decline from its peak in the 1970s, it remains an important regional center providing healthcare, education, retail, and cultural amenities to residents of north-central Montana Nothing fancy..
Understanding Great Falls' population dynamics requires examining the complex interplay of economic opportunities, geographic factors, lifestyle preferences, and historical development patterns. The city faces challenges common to many mid-sized American cities, including retaining young workers and adapting to economic transitions, but also offers advantages such as affordable cost of living, outdoor recreation opportunities, and strong community character.
For those considering relocation to Great Falls or simply interested in Montana's demographic landscape, the population figures tell only part of the story. The city's future population trajectory will depend on its ability to attract new businesses, retain young talent, and maintain the quality of life that has characterized this Montana community for generations. Whether the population grows, stabilizes, or continues to decline will be determined by the economic and social forces that shape communities throughout the American West.
