Introduction: Montana Download PDF

Montana’s early economy centered on mining the State’s rich deposits of minerals and metal; at one point satisfying over 40% of world demand for copper. The constant expansion of the railroad network in the late 19th and early 20th centuries brought an influx of agricultural workers who helped diversify Montana’s economy and increased the state population.

Montana is still largely dependant on its natural resources, with agriculture, tourism, timber, and mineral production all playing integral roles in the state economy.  These industries take advantage of Montana’s natural mineral deposits, scenic beauty, forestlands, and open ranges. The state is also shifting towards the service sector, which now accounts for three-fourths of the gross state product. Apart from tourism, major service industries include real estate, construction, and health care.

Abbreviation: MT 
Capital: Helena 
Nick Name Treasure State 
State Web Site: http://www.montana.gov 
Motto: Gold and silver 

Government

Governor: Brian Schweitzer
Treasurer: Dan Bucks
Senator: Max Baucus
Senator: Jon Tester
Entered Union: 11/8/1889
U.S. Reps: 1

Symbols

Flower: Bitterroot
Bird: Western Meadowlark
State Seal:
State Quarter:

Time Zones:

Standard Time GMT-7
Daylight-Saving Time GMT-6

Statistics

Per Capita Real GDP :
$28,201
Population:
967,440
Percent of People Under Poverty Level:
14.4%
Per Capita Personal Income:
$30,688
Percent of Population with a Bachelor's Degree:
18.5%
Total Exports:
$1,131,170,000

Top 5 Export Partner Countries
Canada
Japan
Germany
Mexico
Taiwan

Top 5 Export Merchandise
Chemicals
Primary Metals Manufacturing
Chemicals Manufacturing
Petroleum and Coal

Major Cities

Billings, Great Falls, Missoula

Major Airports

  Airport Name City
OMA Eppley Airfield Omaha
GTF Great Falls International Great Falls

Main Ports:

None

U.S. Commercial Service

Missoula - Carey Hester, International Trade Specialist The University of Montana, Gallagher Business Bldg., Suite 257
Missoula, MT 59812 Ph: (406) 542-6656
Fax: (406) 542-6659