Harlowton, MT
Population 1,054 · Montana
About Harlowton, MT
Harlowton is a small town located in Montana with a population of 1,054 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $53,750 per year, which is 28% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 50.8 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 Harlowton features a median home value of $178,800, which is 27% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Harlowton in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $766, 34% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 565 total housing units, 76% are owner-occupied (326 units) and 24% are renter-occupied (101 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Harlowton shows an unemployment rate of 0.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 19.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Harlowton have an average one-way commute time of 14.7 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
13.0% of Harlowton 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 5.1% White, 4.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Harlowton, MT
Compared to national averages, Harlowton has a median household income of $53,750 (28% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $178,800, which is 27% below the national median. Monthly rent at $766 is 34% below the US average of $1,163. Within Montana, Harlowton's income is 18% below the state average of $65,821, and home values are 38% below the state median of $288,703.
Why Live in Harlowton, MT?
Harlowton offers affordable housing with a median home value of $178,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $766/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.0%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 14.7 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($53,750) that falls below the national average. However, Harlowton’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Harlowton has a population of 1,054 with a median age of 50.8 years. Compare Harlowton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Montana.
Similar Cities Near Harlowton
Cities in Montana with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| St. Ignatius | 1,053 | $50,781 | $194,200 | Compare |
| Plains | 1,077 | $24,661 | $209,200 | Compare |
| Pray | 1,018 | $102,143 | $601,400 | Compare |
| Gallatin Gateway | 1,092 | $81,429 | $747,900 | Compare |
| Helena Flats | 1,014 | $88,125 | $544,900 | Compare |
| Philipsburg | 1,012 | $40,096 | $304,200 | Compare |
| White Sulphur Springs | 1,097 | $56,424 | $231,700 | Compare |
| Absarokee | 998 | $57,212 | $258,100 | 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 Harlowton With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Harlowton
What is the population of Harlowton, MT?
The population of Harlowton, MT is 1,054 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 Harlowton?
The median household income in Harlowton, MT is $53,750 per year, which is 28% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Harlowton?
The median home value in Harlowton, MT is $178,800, which is 27% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Harlowton?
The median monthly rent in Harlowton, MT is $766, which is 34% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Harlowton?
The unemployment rate in Harlowton, MT is 0.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Harlowton, MT a good place to live?
Harlowton offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 1,054 and a median age of 50.8, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Harlowton, MT?
13.0% of residents in Harlowton 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 Harlowton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Harlowton, MT: median home value is $178,800 (27% below national), median rent is $766/month, and median household income is $53,750. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Harlowton?
The poverty rate in Harlowton, MT is 19.4%, 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 Harlowton, MT?
Harlowton's population is 5.1% White, 4.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.2% of residents are foreign-born.