Montana Economic Outlook 2026
GDP growth, unemployment, tariff impacts, and economic forecast for Montana heading into the 2026 elections.
2.7%
GDP Growth Rate
3.0%
Unemployment Rate
Surplus
State Budget Outlook
Growing
Job Growth Forecast
2026 Economic Overview
Montana’s rapid in-migration has changed its economic and political landscape. Property taxes are a top voter concern. Agriculture exports face tariff risks that test Republican loyalties.
Key Economic Indicators
| Indicator | Value / Status |
|---|---|
| GDP Growth Rate | 2.7% |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.0% |
| Top Economic Sector | Agriculture, Tourism, Mining |
| State Budget Outlook | Surplus |
| Job Growth Forecast | Growing |
| Tariff Impact | Moderate — wheat exports exposed; mining benefits from domestic demand |
| Key Economic Risk | Water rights and drought; property tax explosion from in-migration |