Great Falls is Montana's third-largest city with 60,000 residents, known as "The Electric City" for the hydroelectric dams that harness the Missouri River's five great falls first documented by Lewis and Clark in 1805. Whether you're considering a move or planning a visit, this guide covers everything you need to know — from housing costs and job opportunities to fishing on the Missouri River and a weekend itinerary for first-time visitors.

Situated in Cascade County where the Great Plains meet the Rocky Mountain Front, Great Falls is anchored by Malmstrom Air Force Base, Benefis Health System, and a legacy of western art centered on the C.M. Russell Museum. Giant Springs State Park — home to one of the largest freshwater springs in the world — sits just 4 miles from downtown, and the Missouri River flows right through the city with 60-plus miles of the River’s Edge Trail along its banks. First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park (11 miles) preserves a mile-long cliff used for over 2,000 years by Native Americans.

With an affordability ratio of 5.1, Great Falls offers among the most affordable housing of Montana's major cities and a 31.5% year-over-year inventory increase. Below you'll find a complete profile including cost of living data, school information, climate details, and housing market trends. For deeper coverage, explore our dedicated guides.

Explore Great Falls Guides

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Cost of Living

A detailed breakdown of what it costs to live in Great Falls — housing, income, affordability, and how it compares to the rest of Montana.

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Housing Market

Current housing market data for Great Falls including home values, rental rates, inventory trends, and market analysis.

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Jobs & Economy

Great Falls’ job market by the numbers — military, healthcare, and a 3.2% unemployment rate in The Electric City.

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Schools & Education

Guide to Great Falls schools from K-12 through college, including enrollment, graduation rates, and higher education options.

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Hiking & Trails

The best hiking near Great Falls — from the River’s Edge Trail to the Rocky Mountain Front, with distances and seasonal tips.

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Fishing

World-class fishing near Great Falls on the Missouri River, Sun River, and the legendary Smith River float, with access points and tips.

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Weekend Itinerary

How to spend a weekend in Great Falls — a day-by-day guide covering The Electric City, western art, and Missouri River adventures.

Population

60,000

County

Cascade County

Region

Central Montana

Elevation

3,340 ft

Top Industry

Education & Healthcare

Nearest Hospital

Benefis Health System (in town)

Zip Code

59403

Area Code

406

Time Zone

Mountain Time (MT)

Industry: Census ACS 5-Year 2019–2023 · Hospital: MT DPHHS 2024

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Nearest Major Airports

✈️ Great Falls (GTF)

5 miles
~19m drive

✈️ Helena (HLN)

84 miles
~1h 39m drive

🛩️ Havre (HVR)

121 miles
~2h 15m drive

Browse recreation

Map & Nearby

Explore Great Falls on the interactive map with 3 nearby towns and 21 highlighted recreation sites. Use the zoom controls or select a recreation item to focus it on the map.

Open Area in Google Maps

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Outdoor Recreation Near Great Falls

Jump to map →

9/10

World-Class

45 sites within 30 mi

14 categories

Must-See Highlights

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Giant Springs State Park

Missouri River (Great Falls)

Cascade County Historical Society Museum

Museums0 mi

🏛️

Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art

Flag Hill at Warden Park

Distances are straight-line estimates. Driving distances may be longer. Data: OpenStreetMap contributors & editorial research.

Explore Great Falls, Montana: Your Basecamp for Big Sky Adventure!

Embark on an unforgettable journey in Great Falls, Montana, where the wild frontier spirit meets vibrant city life. Nestled along the mighty Missouri River and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, Great Falls beckons adventurers, history buffs, and art lovers alike. Discover the legendary five falls, explore scenic trails, delve into the rich heritage of the American West, and get ready to write your own epic Montana story!

Quick Facts

Population: 60,422 (U.S. Census Bureau, July 1, 2023 estimate)
County: Cascade County
Founded: 1883
Elevation: 3,330 ft
Known For: The five waterfalls of the Missouri River, C.M. Russell Museum, Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center
Nearby Landmarks: Giant Springs State Park, Sluice Boxes State Park, First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park
Fun Fact: The Roe River (201 feet) was once recognized by Guinness as the world's shortest river. Lewis and Clark reached the five falls on June 13, 1805, executing an 18-mile portage over 28 days. Black Eagle Dam (1890–1892) was Montana's first major hydroelectric facility. Malmstrom AFB became the first operational Minuteman ICBM base in 1961.

Notable People & Pop Culture

Charles M. Russell – Famed Western artist who lived and worked in Great Falls; the C.M. Russell Museum preserves his studio and home.
Paris Gibson – Founded Great Falls in 1883, envisioning hydropower from the five falls; platted the town with James J. Hill.
Ryan Leaf – Former NFL quarterback, born in Great Falls.
Einar Axel Malmstrom – Colonel for whom Malmstrom AFB is named; killed in a 1954 crash.
The Untouchables (1987) – Several scenes filmed in Great Falls.

Top Things to Do in Great Falls

✧ C.M. Russell Museum – Explore the extensive collection of works by renowned Western artist Charles M. Russell, his original studio, and his home.
✧ Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center – Discover the incredible journey of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, focusing on their challenging portage around the five falls of the Missouri.
✧ River's Edge Trail – Enjoy over 50 miles of paved and single-track trails perfect for walking, jogging, and biking along the scenic Missouri River.
✧ Giant Springs State Park – Visit one of the largest freshwater springs in the nation, home to the Roe River and the state fish hatchery.

Local Industry & Economy

Great Falls serves as a vital economic hub for central Montana. Its diverse economy is anchored by agriculture (wheat, barley, livestock), Malmstrom Air Force Base (a major employer and strategic military installation), and a robust healthcare sector. Tourism, retail, and manufacturing also contribute significantly. The city is actively developing its potential in renewable energy and continues to be a center for trade and services, reflecting its historical role as 'The Electric City' due to the hydroelectric power from the Missouri River's falls.

History & Heritage

Founded in 1883 by Paris Gibson with support from James J. Hill, Great Falls was planned to harness the Missouri River's five waterfalls (total drop 612 feet). Lewis and Clark reached the falls on June 13, 1805, executing an 18-mile portage over 28 days amid grizzly attacks and hailstorms. Black Eagle Dam (1890–1892) was Montana's first major hydroelectric facility. The Boston and Montana Smelter (1891) employed over 1,000 workers; Anaconda Copper later controlled refining. Great Falls Army Air Base (1942) supported the Northwest Staging Route, ferrying Lend-Lease aircraft to Alaska. Malmstrom AFB (1955) became the first operational Minuteman ICBM base. Charles M. Russell made Great Falls his home; the C.M. Russell Museum preserves his legacy.

Seasonal Activities & Local Events

Spring/Summer: Hiking and biking the expansive River's Edge Trail, fishing or kayaking on the Missouri River, exploring the wonders of Giant Springs State Park, attending the Montana State Fair, and enjoying outdoor concerts and vibrant farmers markets.
Fall/Winter: Witnessing the stunning fall colors along the river, ice fishing on nearby lakes, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing on local trails, visiting the numerous museums, and enjoying the cozy atmosphere of local breweries and restaurants.
Annual Events: Western Art Week (a major celebration of Western art, coinciding with C.M. Russell's birthday auction), Montana State Fair, Great Falls Farmers' Market (May-September), various holiday parades, and community festivals throughout the year.

Getting There & Nearby Destinations

Great Falls is strategically located at the crossroads of Interstate 15 (north-south) and US Highway 87/89 (east-west), providing excellent accessibility by road. It's a common stop for travelers heading to Glacier National Park (approximately 2.5 to 3 hours northwest) or Yellowstone National Park (approximately 4 to 5 hours south). Helena, the state capital, is about 90 miles south, and other nearby towns include Fort Benton, the birthplace of Montana, and Lewistown.

Where to Stay in Great Falls

Great Falls offers a diverse array of lodging options to accommodate every traveler. You'll find a selection of well-known national hotel chains providing modern amenities, business services, and often, views of the Missouri River. For a more personal touch, charming bed and breakfasts offer unique local experiences. Budget-conscious travelers can choose from numerous motels. Many accommodations are conveniently located near downtown attractions, the airport, and major highways. For outdoor enthusiasts, several campgrounds and RV parks are available in and around the city, providing a closer connection to Montana's natural beauty.

Find Vacation Rentals near Great Falls via VRBO Find Hotels near Great Falls via Expedia

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Plan Your Visit

Ready to explore Great Falls? Add it to your Montana travel itinerary and discover the charm, history, and adventure waiting in Big Sky Country.

Average Monthly Climate: Great Falls

Month	Avg High	Avg Low	Precip	Snow
Jan	38°F	24°F	0.8"	1.7"
Feb	29°F	13°F	1.2"	3.1"
Mar	42°F	23°F	0.8"	1.7"
Apr	52°F	32°F	2"	2.6"
May	63°F	43°F	2.4"	0.7"
Jun	74°F	52°F	2.6"	0"
Jul	85°F	60°F	0.4"	0"
Aug	84°F	59°F	0.9"	0"
Sep	74°F	51°F	1.4"	0.5"
Oct	55°F	37°F	1.6"	2.4"
Nov	44°F	29°F	0.9"	1.8"
Dec	37°F	23°F	0.8"	2"

Housing & Cost of Living

$327,514

Typical Home Value

Census (2019–23): $237,400

$1,352/mo

Typical Rent

Census (2019–23): $866/mo

$63,934

Median Household Income

National Rankings

Home Value65th percentile

Rent77th percentile

Income48th percentile

Affordability Ratio (home price ÷ income)5.1xExpensive

Percentile among ~21,000 U.S. cities. Higher = more expensive (home/rent) or higher earning (income).

Housing Availability

Updated Jan 2026

284

Homes for Sale

↑ 31.5% vs last year

$375,250

Median List Price

New Listings/Month

28,333

Total Housing Units

8.2%

Vacancy Rate

Employment & Economy

ACS 5-Year 2019–2023

3.2%

Unemployment Rate

MT avg: ~3.5%

60.6%

Labor Force Participation

28,857

Employed Residents

Top Industries

Education & Healthcare

28.1%

Retail

13.2%

Tourism & Hospitality

11.2%

Home values from Zillow ZHVI (Jan 2026). Inventory, list prices & new listings from Zillow Research (Jan 2026). Income, vacancy,, employment, industry, from U.S. Census Bureau ACS 5-Year 2019–2023. Data may not reflect current conditions. Check Zillow for the latest market data.

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Great Falls Public Schools

~10,000 students · District Website

Grad Rate

79%

Per Pupil

$10,800

Graduation rate: OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending: Montana OPI fiscal data. MT state avg: ~87%.

Scenic Drives Near Great Falls

Great Falls is located along or near 3 scenic corridors in Montana.

Kings Hill Scenic Byway

US-8971 miModerateStarts here

Highway 200 Corridor

MT-200175 miEasyEnds here

Missouri Breaks Country

US-87145 miEasyEnds here

Explore all routes on the interactive planner →

Great Falls in Our Rankings & Guides

Moving Guide Best for Digital Nomads Hunting Guide

Compare Great Falls with Another Town

Explore Nearby Destinations

Cascade Belt Dutton

Frequently Asked Questions About Great Falls

What is the cost of living in Great Falls, Montana?

Great Falls’ median household income is $63,934 with a median home value of $327,514 (Zillow, January 2026). The affordability ratio of 5.1 is among the best among Montana's major cities. Median rent is $1,352 per month. Inventory has surged 31.5% year-over-year, giving buyers significantly more options than any other Montana market.

Why is Great Falls called The Electric City?

Great Falls earned its nickname from the hydroelectric dams built on the Missouri River’s five waterfalls. Ryan Dam (1915), Rainbow Dam, Black Eagle Dam, Morony Dam, and Cochrane Dam together generate electricity for much of Montana. Lewis and Clark first documented these falls during their 1805 expedition, calling the 18-mile portage around them one of their greatest challenges.

Is Malmstrom Air Force Base in Great Falls?

Yes, Malmstrom Air Force Base is located on the east side of Great Falls. It’s home to the 341st Missile Wing, which operates Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missiles. The base employs thousands of military and civilian personnel, making it one of the city’s largest employers and a stabilizing economic force.

What outdoor recreation is near Great Falls?

Great Falls has 32 recreation sites within 30 miles, highlighted by Giant Springs State Park (4 miles) — one of the world’s largest freshwater springs. The Missouri River flows through the city with 60-plus miles of River’s Edge Trail. First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park (11 miles) preserves a 2,000-year-old cliff. The Rocky Mountain Front begins roughly 50 miles west of town.

What are winters like in Great Falls?

Great Falls winters are cold and windy — the city is one of the windiest in the U.S. January averages a high of 38°F and a low of 24°F. However, Chinook winds regularly bring sudden warming, sometimes raising temperatures 30–40°F in hours. Annual precipitation is about 15 inches, and the city sits at 3,340 feet elevation.

Is Great Falls a good place for families?

Great Falls offers among the most affordable housing of Montana's major cities (ratio 5.1), stable military and healthcare employment, and family-friendly attractions including Giant Springs State Park, the Children’s Museum of Montana, and the River’s Edge Trail. Great Falls Public Schools serves 10,000 students with a 79% graduation rate. Two colleges provide local higher education options.

What are the main industries in Great Falls?

Education and healthcare leads at 28.1% of employment, anchored by Benefis Health System. Retail (13.2%) and tourism/hospitality (11.2%) follow. Malmstrom Air Force Base provides significant military employment. The Montana Air National Guard’s 120th Airlift Wing also operates from Great Falls International Airport. The unemployment rate is 3.2% with a job score of 9.2.

Can you fly into Great Falls?

Yes, Great Falls International Airport (GTF) offers daily flights to Denver, Salt Lake City, Minneapolis, and Seattle. The airport is about 4 miles southwest of downtown. Great Falls sits along I-15 (north-south) and US-87/US-89, roughly 90 miles north of Helena and 215 miles north of Yellowstone National Park.

What is the housing market like in Great Falls?

As of January 2026, Great Falls’ median home value is $327,514 (Zillow) with 284 homes for sale. Inventory has surged 31.5% year-over-year — the largest supply increase of any major Montana city. The median list price is $375,250. Across 28,333 total housing units, the vacancy rate is 8.2%, the highest among Montana’s larger cities.

What is Giant Springs State Park?

Giant Springs State Park, 4 miles from downtown Great Falls, is home to one of the largest freshwater springs in the world, producing roughly 156 million gallons of water per day. The park includes a fish hatchery, the Roe River (one of the shortest rivers in the world), picnic areas, and access to the River’s Edge Trail along the Missouri River.

Explore Other Montana City Guides

Compare Great Falls with other Montana communities. Each guide includes cost of living, housing, jobs, schools, hiking, fishing, and a weekend itinerary.

Missoula

The Garden City

Bozeman

College town & outdoor hub

Montana's largest city