There’s no doubt about it, Eastern Montana and Western Montana have some dramatic differences. While we all unite for our love of the Treasure State and all it stands for, which part of the state you call home may depend on your job of choice, your hobbies, or your personal preferences. If you have a Montana area code, you’re already doing something right … but here are the most obvious differences when comparing western vs eastern Montana.

1. The landscape
Amy Meredith / Flickr
m01229 / Flickr
Some prefer the dramatic mountains, lush forests, and famous waterfalls of Western Montana, while others prefer the flat, rolling farmland on the east side. Eastern Montana also has bragging rights for our beautiful badlands, which can mainly be found at Makoshika State Park and near the town of Terry.
2. The job market
U.S. Department of Agriculture / Flickr
D. Taylor in Idaho / Flickr
There are plenty of jobs in Montana that won't make you choose a side of the state to live in. But if you want to work in the oil industry, you should head east, while park rangers and loggers will have better luck on the west side.
3. The dining scene
Plonk! Missoula Facebook
Andy W / TripAdvisor
Rest assured, you won't go hungry anywhere in Montana, and you'll find tasty eats in every town. However, aside from Billings, most Eastern Montana cities have more casual mom-and-pop spots like Cabin Creek Cafe in Baker, while you'll find upscale wine bars like Plonk! on the West side.
4. The landmarks
Mark Holloway / Flickr

Related Stories

The Magnificent Airbnb Near Flathead Lake, Montana That Is Perfect For A Spring Retreat

The Magnificent Airbnb Near Flathead Lake, Montana That Is Perfect For A Spring Retreat

 The Incredible Flower Road Trip Through Montana Is The Ultimate Spring Adventure

The Incredible Flower Road Trip Through Montana Is The Ultimate Spring Adventure

 The Whole Family Could Spend An Entire Day Having A Blast At Montana's Great Indoors

The Whole Family Could Spend An Entire Day Having A Blast At Montana's Great Indoors
Jimmy Emerson, DVM / Flickr
Western Montana boasts famous landmarks like Our Lady Of The Rockies, which looms over Butte, while the equally impressive Steer Montana, the world's largest steer, resides in Baker.
5. The culture
Tim Evanson / Flickr
Beaver Creek Brewery Facebook
Western Montanans enjoy going to football games, chatting over bonfires, being outdoors, and enjoying Montana's beer scene. Eastern Montanans like to watch sports, chat over bonfires, be outdoors, and enjoy breweries like Beaver Creek in Wibaux ... okay, so we basically all like the same things in Montana. We just do them in different places.
6. The outdoor activities
Amanda Kimsey / alltrails.com
Brett Whaley / Flickr
Whether it's fly fishing, hunting, hiking, camping, or swimming in the nearest lake, we all love being outdoors in Montana. Our options just look a little different based on our geographical locations.
7. Tourism
David Schott / Flickr
Pattys-Photos / Flickr
Out-of-staters and Montanans alike flock to Western Montana to see Glacier National Park, go skiing, or explore towns like Cooke City and West Yellowstone on the way to Yellowstone National Park. Eastern Montana sees its share of tourism, but it's for things like the Miles City Bucking Horse Sale, the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, and local celebrations like "What the Hay" on the Montana Bale Trail in Hobson.
8. Road construction
Forest Service Northern Region / Flickr
We're just kidding. This is an inescapable hell no matter which part of the state you call home.

No matter what side of the Western vs Eastern Montana debate you come down on, if you’re a Montanan, you’re lucky indeed. It really is no wonder we think it’s the best state to call home.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Western Vs. Eastern Montana

Sara Dager | June 03, 2022

What unique words and phrases do people in Montana say?

We love how every state has its own unique collection of phrases and words that will only make sense to locals! We drink ditches, drive rigs, and "cowboy up" and no one can tell us differently. The phrases unique to Montana are not only fun to say, but they also reflect our unique way of life. One of our most fun phrases is "hooky bobbing," which means to be towed over the snow, while behind a vehicle, and by holding onto the bumper! Not the safest practice but certainly distinctive!

What is Montana known for?

Montana has lots within its borders that make it notable. Probably the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of Big Sky Country is Yellowstone National Park. This park absolutely cannot be missed and should honestly be seen by anyone interested in stunning national parks. The land also features rich deposits of minerals that make stunning crystals and gems like sapphires. And, of course, there are stunning mountains absolutely everywhere that are so comforting and beautiful to view. There are more hidden gems in Montana as well that are worth your time.

What are the best small towns in Montana?

The best small towns in Montana will absolutely take your breath away. Visit Red Lodge for awesome snow sports and hiking, and when you're tuckered out and need a good meal, there is great dining to revitalize you! Or step back in time by visiting Fort Benton, a well-preserved historical town. Another small town in Montana that is pretty hard to beat is Big Sky. Here, the Mountain views and placid reflective water are so splendidly peaceful that you'll barely notice all the other visitors!

Related Articles