Let the numbers do the talking.
Great Falls, MT vs Missoula, MT
Great Falls, MT vs Missoula, MT: What the data shows
Great Falls, MT is in Great Falls, MT while Missoula, MT is in Missoula, MT — both in the same state. On home prices, Great Falls, MT is the more affordable option at $186,300 median — $168,600 less than Missoula, MT's $354,900. WYLT rates Great Falls, MT as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Missoula, MT as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Great Falls, MT has the stronger safety profile of the two. Great Falls, MT has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Missoula, MT has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Great Falls, MT has Low flood risk and Missoula, MT has Low flood risk.
Missoula, MT is the more walkable neighborhood. Great Falls, MT scores 18/100 (car-dependent) versus Missoula, MT's 22/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Missoula, MT has the higher school rating — Great Falls, MT rates 6.9/10 and Missoula, MT rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Great Falls, MT | Missoula, MT |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $186K ✓ Lower price | $355K |
| Median Rent | $766 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $48K | $51K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 18/100 | 22/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 40/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | N/A | 30 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | B |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.9/10 | 7.3/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | retireesnature_loversbudget_homeowners | Outdoor enthusiastsFamilies with school‑age childrenRemote workers needing a calm environment |
Bottom line
For someone seeking a quiet, budget-friendly lifestyle with plenty of outdoor space, Great Falls is the better option. However, for families prioritizing better schools and a wider range of activities, Missoula offers more to consider, despite the longer commute and higher cost of living. Ultimately, choose Great Falls if affordability is your top concern, and Missoula if you can afford the trade-offs for a more vibrant, nature-rich environment.
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