Montana Ranks Among The Top 10 States For The Arts

If you walk downtown Bozeman or even through smaller places like Bigfork, you will notice something they all share. Montana has a deep connection to art. From galleries tucked into brick storefronts to murals, sculptures, and handmade goods, creativity feels woven into everyday life here. The rugged beauty of Big Sky Country has inspired artists for generations, from legendary figures like Charles Marion Russell to the many painters, photographers, musicians, and makers working today. While locals have long known this, there is now data to back it up.

A recent study by SmileHub ranked the best states in the country for the arts, and Montana landed a spot in the top ten. That is no small achievement. The study looked beyond just how many artists live in a state. It examined how well communities support creativity overall, including access to art, financial stability for artists, and the strength of arts education.

Studies show that involvement in the arts can help young people succeed academically and can bridge cultural and political differences. For that to happen, states need strong support systems, from public access to galleries and performances to policies that allow artists to make a living.

Montana ranked 6th overall. The state placed 6th for access to art, 5th for artist economy and personal finances, and 22nd for arts education.

The top states on the list were New York, California, Washington, Vermont, and Oregon, followed closely by Montana. Colorado, Massachusetts, New Mexico, and Utah rounded out the top ten.

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For a rural state with wide open spaces and small towns, Montana’s strong showing speaks volumes. It reflects a culture that values creativity, supports local artists, and understands that art is not just decoration. It is part of what makes Montana feel like home.