Employment, the Economy, and Taxes

Gallatin and Park Counties enjoy a multifaceted economy. While agriculture, tourism, and government have historically been the anchors of both counties, technology and manufacturing industries are rapidly taking hold and continually creating new job markets. By 2010, nearly 11,421 new jobs are expected in Gallatin County alone.

Montana in general experiences an unemployment rate under the national average, and Gallatin and Park County unemployment rates reflect this trend. The latest 2004 figures estimate the unemployment rate for Gallatin County at a mere 3% and Park County at 4.6% compared with the national average of 5.5%.

The following are the largest private employers in Gallatin County:

Albertsons
Bennigans Grill and Tavern
Bozeman Daily Chronicle
Bozeman Deaconess Hospital
Bridger Bowl
Big Sky of Montana
Costco
First Security Bank
Gibson Guitar
Home Care Services
Johnny Carino’s
Kenyon Noble Lumber and Hardware
Martel Construction
McDonald’s
Murdochs Ranch and Home Supply
RightNow Technologies
Wal-Mart
Yellowstone Mountain Club
Zoot Enterprises

The following are the largest private employers in Park County:

Albertsons
Best Western of Mammoth Hot Springs
Chico Hot Springs
Church Universal and Triumphant
County Market
Golden Ratio Woodworks
Livingston Enterprise
Livingston Health and Rehab Center
Livingston Memorial Hospital
McDonald’s
Mountain Sky Guest Ranch
Park Clinic
Printing for Less
Yellowstone Inn
The US Census Bureau’s 2000 Census reports the following median household income for Gallatin County/Park County communities:
Belgrade
$37,392
Big Sky
$39,688
Bozeman
$32,156
Clyde Park
$28,194
Gardiner
$30,125
Livingston
$28,980
Manhattan
$38,242
Three Forks
$34,212
West Yellowstone
$30,703
Wilsall
$29,643

In addition to the federal income tax, all individuals working in Montana are subject to individual income tax. This progressive program taxes income from all sources for Montana residents. For non-residents, income earned from any Montana institution/business is taxed. Currently, there is no state sales tax. For a more thorough understanding of Montana’s tax laws, contact the Department of Revenue concerning individual income tax or your county appraisal office concerning property taxes.

Montana Department of Revenue
(406) 444-6900

Gallatin County Classification and Appraisal Office
(406) 582-3400

Park County Appraisal Office
(406) 222-4113

For assistance in finding employment or running your small business, utilize the “Employment” section in the quick reference phone directory.
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