East Helena, MT
Population 1,855 · Montana
About East Helena, MT
East Helena is a small town located in Montana with a population of 1,855 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $53,611 per year, which is 29% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.9 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in East Helena features a median home value of $254,400, which is 4% above the national median of $244,900. This positions East Helena in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,020, 12% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 903 total housing units, 63% are owner-occupied (560 units) and 37% are renter-occupied (328 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in East Helena shows an unemployment rate of 10.2%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 17.7%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in East Helena have an average one-way commute time of 20.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
21.9% of East Helena 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 6.5% White, 2.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.0% Asian residents, with 0.4% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in East Helena, MT
Compared to national averages, East Helena has a median household income of $53,611 (29% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $254,400, which is 4% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,020 is 12% below the US average of $1,163. Within Montana, East Helena's income is 19% below the state average of $65,821, and home values are 12% below the state median of $288,703.
Why Live in East Helena, MT?
East Helena offers rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,020/month, and short commute times averaging just 20.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($53,611) that falls below the national average. However, East Helena’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
East Helena has a population of 1,855 with a median age of 35.9 years. Compare East Helena with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Montana.
Similar Cities Near East Helena
Cities in Montana with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Browning | 1,852 | $0 | $0 | Compare |
| Malta | 1,902 | $59,449 | $139,000 | Compare |
| Pablo | 1,808 | $38,430 | $255,200 | Compare |
| Columbus | 1,925 | $62,500 | $264,000 | Compare |
| Lame Deer | 1,939 | $26,364 | $117,300 | Compare |
| Ronan | 1,962 | $41,429 | $201,700 | Compare |
| Roundup | 1,964 | $57,632 | $118,300 | Compare |
| West Glendive | 1,968 | $57,743 | $179,700 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Montana
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare East Helena With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about East Helena
What is the population of East Helena, MT?
The population of East Helena, MT is 1,855 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Montana.
What is the median household income in East Helena?
The median household income in East Helena, MT is $53,611 per year, which is 29% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in East Helena?
The median home value in East Helena, MT is $254,400, which is 4% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in East Helena?
The median monthly rent in East Helena, MT is $1,020, which is 12% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in East Helena?
The unemployment rate in East Helena, MT is 10.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is East Helena, MT a good place to live?
East Helena offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,855 and a median age of 35.9, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is East Helena, MT?
21.9% of residents in East Helena 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 East Helena?
Key cost-of-living indicators for East Helena, MT: median home value is $254,400 (4% above national), median rent is $1,020/month, and median household income is $53,611. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.7x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in East Helena?
The poverty rate in East Helena, MT is 17.7%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is East Helena, MT?
East Helena's population is 6.5% White, 2.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.4% of residents are foreign-born.