Cities and Towns in Gallatin County, Montana
Founded in February 2, 1865, Gallatin County is one of 56 counties in the state of Montana. Historically, Gallatin County was one of the 9 original counties. The city of Bozeman is the county seat. With FIPS code of 31, Gallatin County has a population of 122,713 and area of 2,507 square miles (6,493 km²).
List of all cities in Gallatin County, MT alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Amsterdam, MT | 59741 | 406 |
| Belgrade, MT | 59714 | 406 |
| Big Sky, MT | 59716 | 406 |
| Bozeman, MT | 59715 | 406 |
| 59717 | 406 | |
| 59718 | 406 | |
| 59719 | 406 | |
| 59771 | 406 | |
| 59772 | 406 | |
| Gallatin Gateway, MT | 59730 | 406 |
| Gallatin Gtwy, MT | 59730 | 406 |
| Manhattan, MT | 59741 | 406 |
| Montana State University Bozeman, MT | 59717 | 406 |
| Three Forks, MT | 59752 | 406 |
| Trident, MT | 59752 | 406 |
| West Yellowstone, MT | 59758 | 406 |
| Willow Creek, MT | 59760 | 406 |
Major Cities and Towns in Gallatin County, Montana
Bozeman
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 19.4 sq mi
- Population: 56,000 (estimated)
- Zip Codes: 59715, 59717, 59718
- Latitude and Longitude: 45.6760° N, 111.0429° W
Location and History
Bozeman, the largest city in Gallatin County, is located in southwestern Montana, nestled between the Gallatin and Bridger mountain ranges. Founded in 1864 as a gold rush town, it was originally called “Bozeman” after John M. Bozeman, the town’s namesake and a pioneer who helped establish the Bozeman Trail. Bozeman grew rapidly in the late 19th century, largely due to its strategic location on the route to Yellowstone National Park and its thriving agriculture, mining, and ranching industries. By the early 20th century, the arrival of Montana State University (MSU) in 1893 added an academic and cultural dimension to the city. The university has since been a major factor in Bozeman’s economic and population growth, fostering a strong research and technology sector, particularly in engineering and agriculture. The town’s blend of history, outdoor recreation, and educational institutions has made it a popular destination for students, outdoor enthusiasts, and entrepreneurs. Today, Bozeman is known for its vibrant arts scene, outdoor recreation, and high quality of life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bozeman is served by the Bozeman School District, with Bozeman High School, Gallatin High School, and several middle and elementary schools. It is also home to Montana State University, a major research institution that draws students from around the world. Landmarks in Bozeman include the Museum of the Rockies, which houses a world-class collection of dinosaur fossils, and the historic Main Street District, featuring a mix of local boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries. The city’s proximity to outdoor destinations like Bridger Bowl Ski Area, the Gallatin National Forest, and Yellowstone National Park makes it a hub for outdoor recreation, including skiing, hiking, and fly-fishing. Bozeman also has a vibrant cultural scene, with year-round festivals, including the Sweet Pea Festival of the Arts and the Bozeman Film Festival, offering entertainment for all tastes.
Belgrade
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 2.38 sq mi
- Population: 11,000 (estimated)
- Zip Codes: 59714
- Latitude and Longitude: 45.7465° N, 111.1780° W
Location and History
Belgrade is a growing town located just west of Bozeman, at the confluence of the Gallatin and East Gallatin rivers. The town was established in the early 1900s as a railroad and farming community, with agriculture serving as the backbone of the economy for many years. Its location near the major transportation routes, such as U.S. Highway 191 and the railway system, made Belgrade an important trade and shipping hub for the surrounding agricultural regions. Over the years, the town evolved, and with the economic growth of Bozeman and the expanding real estate market, Belgrade has become a popular residential area for those working in Bozeman. The town retains its small-town charm, with a more affordable cost of living compared to Bozeman, while benefiting from its proximity to larger city amenities and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Belgrade is served by the Belgrade School District, with Belgrade High School, Belgrade Middle School, and several elementary schools. Major landmarks in Belgrade include the Gallatin County Fairgrounds, which hosts local events, such as the Gallatin County Fair, rodeos, and agricultural exhibits. The town also boasts the Belgrade Community Library, an important resource for residents of all ages. The surrounding area is known for its outdoor recreational activities, including fishing on the Gallatin River, hiking, and wildlife viewing in the nearby Bridger Mountains. Belgrade’s proximity to Bozeman and its location in the Gallatin Valley make it a central point for those looking to enjoy both rural and urban life, with easy access to cultural events, shopping, and the world-class outdoor opportunities of the region.
Manhattan
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.77 sq mi
- Population: 2,000 (estimated)
- Zip Codes: 59741
- Latitude and Longitude: 45.9389° N, 110.9755° W
Location and History
Manhattan is located in the heart of the Gallatin Valley, about 15 miles southwest of Bozeman. Established in the early 1900s as an agricultural town, it was named after Manhattan, New York, due to early settlers hailing from the East Coast. Manhattan has historically been a farming and ranching community, with its fertile valley soil allowing for the cultivation of grains, vegetables, and livestock. The town has maintained its agricultural roots, with many of its residents working in farming or related industries. Over the past few decades, Manhattan has become a more residential community, as more people have moved to the area for its proximity to Bozeman and the surrounding outdoor recreation. Its small-town atmosphere, combined with its close proximity to larger cities, makes it an appealing place to live.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Manhattan is served by the Manhattan School District, with Manhattan High School, Manhattan Middle School, and several elementary schools. The town also has a small but active public library. Landmarks in Manhattan include the Gallatin County Museum of History, which showcases the agricultural and settler history of the area. The town is also near the beautiful Missouri River, providing recreational opportunities such as fishing and boating. Manhattan’s location near the Big Sky and Bridger Mountain areas offers residents easy access to hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities. The town is known for its strong sense of community, with annual events like the Manhattan Community Carnival and the local farmers market, which reflect its agricultural heritage and local pride.
Three Forks
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 1.06 sq mi
- Population: 2,100 (estimated)
- Zip Codes: 59752
- Latitude and Longitude: 45.8891° N, 111.5599° W
Location and History
Three Forks, located at the confluence of the Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin rivers, is a historic town that has played an important role in Montana’s history. Founded in the mid-1800s, Three Forks was a significant location for the Lewis and Clark Expedition, which passed through the area in 1805. The town was named for the three rivers that converge here, a place that had long been important to Native American tribes. In the late 1800s, Three Forks became a vital transportation hub, particularly with the arrival of the Northern Pacific Railroad. While its population grew with the arrival of settlers and businesses, the town remained a small agricultural and trading center. Today, Three Forks remains a quiet, rural community with a rich history and a focus on agriculture, ranching, and tourism.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Three Forks is served by the Three Forks School District, which includes Three Forks High School, Three Forks Middle School, and several elementary schools. The town is also home to the Three Forks Public Library and the historic Three Forks Depot, which now serves as a museum and cultural center. Landmarks in the area include the Missouri Headwaters State Park, where visitors can explore the historic confluence of the three rivers. The town is also close to the famous Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park, offering hiking, cave tours, and historical insights into the region’s natural and cultural heritage. Three Forks’ small-town charm and proximity to both Bozeman and outdoor attractions make it an appealing destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.