Missoula's economy is shaped by its role as western Montana's regional center for education, healthcare, and professional services. With a population of 77,757, the city supports a diverse job market anchored by the University of Montana and several major healthcare systems. This guide covers industry composition, employment rates, and what job seekers should know. For the full city profile, see our Missoula guide.
Employment at a Glance
Industry Breakdown
Missoula's employment spreads across 3 major sectors. The largest is Education & Healthcare, which accounts for 26.2% of all jobs. This is driven primarily by the University of Montana, Community Medical Center, Providence St. Patrick Hospital, and the Missoula County school system.
| Industry | Share | |
|---|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 26.2% | |
| Professional Services | 14.1% | |
| Tourism & Hospitality | 13.8% |
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Estimates (2019–2023).
Major Employers
The University of Montana is the city's single largest employer with approximately 2,500 faculty and staff. The university also generates significant downstream employment in student housing, food service, and retail. Healthcare is the second major employment anchor, led by Providence St. Patrick Hospital and Community Medical Center, which together employ thousands of clinical and administrative workers.
Federal and state government agencies maintain a notable presence. The U.S. Forest Service's Region 1 headquarters is based in Missoula, and several other federal agencies including the Bureau of Land Management have regional offices here. Missoula County government and the city itself are also significant employers.
Professional Services & Tech
Professional services represent 14.1% of employment, a sector that has grown with the rise of remote work. Missoula's quality of life has attracted a growing cohort of tech workers, consultants, and creative professionals who work remotely for companies based in larger cities. Co-working spaces have expanded in the downtown core to serve this population.
Tourism & Hospitality
Tourism and hospitality account for 13.8% of employment, reflecting Missoula's role as a gateway to Glacier National Park, the Bitterroot Valley, and world-class fly fishing. The sector is seasonal, with employment peaking in summer and during ski season at nearby Snowbowl. The craft brewing industry — Missoula has over a dozen breweries — has become a draw in its own right.
Workforce Characteristics
Missoula's labor force participation rate of 72.6% exceeds the national average of roughly 62%, reflecting the city's younger-than-average population and university influence. The unemployment rate of 4.7% is in line with Montana's statewide average.
The university creates a unique labor dynamic: a steady supply of educated young workers willing to accept lower wages in exchange for Missoula's lifestyle amenities. This "lifestyle discount" keeps wages in some sectors below national averages, particularly in non-profit, education, and hospitality roles. For a look at how wages relate to living costs, see our Missoula cost of living guide.
Key Takeaways for Job Seekers
- Healthcare and education offer the most stable, year-round employment.
- Remote workers can leverage Missoula's quality of life while earning coastal wages.
- Tourism and hospitality jobs are abundant but often seasonal.
- The university creates a competitive job market for entry-level professional positions.
- Federal and state government roles offer strong benefits and job security.
- For the latest openings, check the school district and university career pages.