Destination Montana

This section will answer many of your questions regarding the life science industry in Montana, the state's economy, tax structure and cost of living, education, transportation, climate, recreational opportunities, history and more.

If after using this resource you have specific questions or suggestions, please e-mail us at Info@InfoResource.org and we will respond as quickly as we can to your inquiry or suggestion.

Industry Overview | Economy/Cost of Living | Education
Recreation & Entertainment | Transportation | Geography & Climate
History | Suggested Reading List

A vast land encompassing the majestic Rocky Mountains and the Great Plains, this is Montana, home to an expanding economy and some of nature's most impressive scenery.

Industry Snapshot

Montana is home to an emergent life science industry, supported by modern research institutions and a progressive higher educational system. Obstacles currently facing the bioscience industry in Montana include insufficient laboratory space and a lack of substantial private investment. Nonetheless, with a well-trained work force and an expanding economy, Montana is prepared for significant industry development.

Economy/Cost of Living

Montana enjoys an astonishingly stable economy, as well as a low cost of living. A small population and a historical dependence on the utilization of natural resources have limited the state’s relative economic impact, but recent diversification efforts have led a gradual transformation to a modern, service-oriented economy.

Education

Montana is home to a successful K-12 educational system and an impressive higher educational system. In the past decade, Montana has ranked in the highest-performing states in 14 indicators, including the state’s international standing in 8th grade science. Montana's higher educational system includes private colleges and universities, as well as the Montana University System, a network of five state universities, an equal number of colleges of technology, three community colleges and seven unique tribal colleges.

Recreation & Entertainment

As a vast, mountainous state, Montana offers numerous year-round outdoor recreation options. Lively communities host many events, while cities present visitors with numerous cultural opportunities.

Transportation

Montana contains a unique transportation system, adapted to meet the needs of a large state and dispersed populace. Road, rail and air systems connect Montana internally, and with the nation and the world.

Geography & Climate

Montana is an immense, high, northern state, dominated by both the Rocky Mountains and the Great Plains. Warm summers, contrasted with cold and snowy winters, characterize Montana’s climate.

History

The early years of Montana's history were marked by development of the region's cattle, agricultural, timber and mineral resources. The state has since diversified to to support new, high-technology industries.

Suggested Reading List

A list of select guides and reference books about Montana.