Belt, MT
Population 525 · Montana
About Belt, MT
Belt is a small community located in Montana with a population of 525 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $72,083 per year, which is 4% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 48.3 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Belt features a median home value of $170,500, which is 30% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Belt in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $910, 22% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 255 total housing units, 71% are owner-occupied (145 units) and 29% are renter-occupied (58 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Belt shows an unemployment rate of 7.5%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 9.1%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Belt have an average one-way commute time of 22 minutes.
Education & Demographics
20.9% of Belt residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 8.6% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 1.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Belt, MT
Compared to national averages, Belt has a median household income of $72,083 (4% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $170,500, which is 30% below the national median. Monthly rent at $910 is 22% below the US average of $1,163. Within Montana, Belt's income is 10% above the state average of $65,821, and home values are 41% below the state median of $288,703.
Why Live in Belt, MT?
Belt offers affordable housing with a median home value of $170,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $910/month, and a low poverty rate of 9.1%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 22 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($72,083) that falls below the national average. However, Belt’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Belt has a population of 525 with a median age of 48.3 years. Compare Belt with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Montana.
Similar Cities Near Belt
Cities in Montana with a similar population size.
Demographics
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Economy & Education
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Other Cities in Montana
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Belt
What is the population of Belt, MT?
The population of Belt, MT is 525 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Montana.
What is the median household income in Belt?
The median household income in Belt, MT is $72,083 per year, which is 4% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Belt?
The median home value in Belt, MT is $170,500, which is 30% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Belt?
The median monthly rent in Belt, MT is $910, which is 22% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Belt?
The unemployment rate in Belt, MT is 7.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Belt, MT a good place to live?
Belt offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 525 and a median age of 48.3, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Belt, MT?
20.9% of residents in Belt aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Belt?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Belt, MT: median home value is $170,500 (30% below national), median rent is $910/month, and median household income is $72,083. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Belt?
The poverty rate in Belt, MT is 9.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Belt, MT?
Belt's population is 8.6% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.8% two or more races. 1.7% of residents are foreign-born.