Missoula, MT- "Garden City"- County Seat
Established- 1821
Population- 77,757
Elevation- 3,209′
Missoula, Montana, often dubbed the “Garden City,” boasts a vibrant history that began as the Hellgate Trading Post in 1860, gradually evolving into “Missoula Mills” and eventually just “Missoula,” derived from a Salish term for the Clark Fork River. The town flourished with the arrival of the Mullan Road and the Northern Pacific Railway, establishing itself as a key trade center and later becoming home to the University of Montana in 1893 and a major hub for the U.S. Forest Service. Today, Missoula is a progressive and thriving city, renowned for its strong sense of community, liberal leanings, and an abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities, from floating the Clark Fork River and hiking the “M” trail to exploring nearby national forests. While its popularity has led to an increasingly competitive and expensive housing market, residents enjoy a rich arts and culture scene, diverse dining options, and a genuine connection to nature, making it a desirable place for those seeking a dynamic lifestyle amidst stunning mountain scenery.