Missoula, MT

Missoula, located in the extreme west-central part of the state, is a youthful and progressive college town with an unusual mix of students, ranchers, “jet setters,” and nature lovers. Set against a beautiful backdrop of mountains and scenic valleys, the city is home to the University of Montana. The area is an outdoor paradise, with national forests, ski areas, raging rivers, and excellent fishing and bicycling. The university and a large National Forest Service office are economic mainstays. Key businesses sectors serving the area include health care, retail shopping, transportation, financial services, government and social services, education, events, arts and culture. Health care in particular is one of Missoula s fastest growing industries with St. Patrick Hospital and the Community Medical Center already the city s second and third largest employers behind the university.