Is Malmstrom AFB Safe, Pros and cons of living in Malmstrom AFB
Malmstrom Air Force Base, located near Great Falls, Montana, is a significant military installation and a key component of the U.S. Air Force’s nuclear deterrence mission. It is home to the 341st Missile Wing, responsible for operating and maintaining Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missiles. The base’s presence significantly impacts the local economy and community, providing employment and contributing to the region’s development.
The base and its surrounding community offer a unique living experience, characterized by a lower cost of living compared to national averages and a strong connection to outdoor recreation. While Montana winters can be harsh, the area provides access to natural beauty and a supportive environment for military families. Understanding the various facets of life at Malmstrom AFB, from safety and cost of living to employment and education, is crucial for those considering a move to this unique location.
Is it Safe to Live in Malmstrom AFB?
Malmstrom Air Force Base generally offers a safe environment for its residents. The overall crime rate is reported to be below the national average, with a crime safety grade of B (as reported by DoorProfit). Residents have a lower chance of being a victim of violent crime compared to the national average (as reported by DoorProfit).
However, safety can vary by neighborhood, and it is advisable to research specific areas before moving or visiting (as reported by DoorProfit). The cost of crime per resident in Malmstrom Air Force Base is lower than both the national and state averages (as reported by CrimeGrade.org). Property crime rates are also a consideration, with a rate of 13.89 per 1,000 residents in a typical year (as reported by CrimeGrade.org).
Crime Statistics
The estimated violent crime rate in Malmstrom Air Force Base is 279.6 per 100,000 residents, which is 27% lower than the national average (as reported by DoorProfit). This translates to approximately a 1 in 358 chance of being a victim of violent crime annually (as reported by DoorProfit). Property crime, however, is slightly higher than the national average, with a rate of 2,123.5 per 100,000 residents (as reported by DoorProfit).
Larceny/theft and vehicle theft are the most common property crimes, with rates above the national average for larceny/theft (as reported by DoorProfit). Despite these statistics, Malmstrom Air Force Base is generally considered safer than 73% of major U.S. cities (as reported by DoorPrint). The total projected cost of crime per resident is approximately $344 annually (as reported by CrimeGrade.org).
Pros and Cons of Living in Malmstrom AFB
Malmstrom Air Force Base offers several advantages, including a cost of living that is 2% lower than the U.S. national average (as reported by Salary.com). Housing costs are also significantly lower, with rates 13% lower than the national average for utilities and no state sales tax (as reported by MilitaryByOwner). The surrounding Great Falls area provides access to outdoor recreational activities like hunting and fishing, and is within proximity to Glacier National Park (as reported by MyBaseGuide).
However, there are also potential drawbacks to consider. Montana experiences cold winters, which can impact daily life and activities (as reported by Salary.com). While housing is more affordable than in many other areas, there can be a shortage of affordable properties to buy or rent, requiring diligence during a PCS house hunt (as reported by MilitaryByOwner). Some reports have also indicated an entrenched drug problem in the Great Falls area in the past (as reported by Reddit).
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Malmstrom Air Force Base is generally considered affordable, with monthly expenses for singles at $2436 and for families of four at $5364 (as reported by Salary.com). This is 2% lower than the U.S. national average and significantly lower than Montana’s state average (as reported by Salary.com). Housing costs are a major contributor to this affordability, being 25.6% lower than the national average (as reported by Salary.com).
Utilities, transportation, and healthcare costs are slightly higher than the national average but are offset by the lower housing expenses (as reported by Salary.com). Montana’s lack of state income tax and sales tax further contributes to the affordability for residents (as reported by MilitaryByOwner).
Housing Market
Housing at Malmstrom AFB includes both on-base and off-base options. On-base housing is managed by Balfour Beatty Communities and offers various floor plans, amenities, and a strong sense of military community (as reported by MilitaryByOwner, Malmstrom AFB Homes). Off-base housing is available in Great Falls and surrounding cities, with a median home sale price around $305,000 to $345,000, which is approximately 39% below the national average (as reported by MilitaryByOwner).
Despite the relative affordability, there can be a shortage of available properties, necessitating an active search for suitable homes or apartments (as reported by MilitaryByOwner). The median gross rent in Malmstrom AFB CDP has seen an increase, rising from $1,003 in 2017 to $1,195 in 2023 (as reported by CensusDepth). Rental rates for apartments in Great Falls are around $1,609 per month (as reported by RentCafe).
Demographics and Lifestyle
Malmstrom Air Force Base has a population of approximately 4,357 residents as of 2026, with a steady growth rate (as reported by World Population Review). The demographics reflect a younger population, with a median age of 22.5 years (as reported by World Population Review). The base’s population is diverse, with a majority identifying as White, followed by Hispanic and Black or African American residents (as reported by World Population Review, Data USA).
The lifestyle in the Malmstrom AFB area is influenced by its location on the high plains of Montana, offering a blend of military community life and access to extensive outdoor activities. The community is known for its supportive nature towards service members, and its relatively remote location contributes to a lower cost of living and a quieter pace of life compared to larger metropolitan areas (as reported by MyBaseGuide).
Population and Diversity
As of 2026, Malmstrom Air Force Base is projected to have a population of 4,353 (as reported by Malmstrom AFB Demographics). The population has been growing, with an increase of 11.66% since 2020 (as reported by World Population Review). The racial composition is predominantly White, making up about 56.6% of the population, followed by Hispanic at 17.2% and Black or African American at 11% (as reported by Malmstrom AFB Demographics).
The base has a younger demographic, with a median age of 22.5 years, and a higher male-to-female ratio of 123.9 to 100 (as reported by World Population Review). A significant majority of residents are U.S. citizens, with 99.3% holding citizenship (as reported by Data USA).
Community and Culture
Malmstrom Air Force Base is situated near Great Falls, Montana, a mid-size city with a strong sense of community that is particularly welcoming to military families (as reported by MyBaseGuide). The culture in the area is shaped by its Western heritage and the significant military presence, fostering a supportive environment for service members and their families. Outdoor recreation is a prominent aspect of the local culture, with opportunities for hunting, fishing, and exploring nearby natural attractions like Glacier National Park (as reported by MyBaseGuide).
The community values its connection to the military, and local organizations often collaborate with the base to support service members. The pace of life is generally more relaxed than in larger cities, offering a peaceful environment for raising a family (as reported by MyBaseGuide).
Major Employers and Job Market
Malmstrom Air Force Base is a primary employer in the region, supporting thousands of active-duty military personnel, civilian employees, and their families. The base’s economic impact on the local area is substantial, contributing significantly to employment and economic activity (as reported by Malmstrom AFB). Beyond the base itself, the surrounding Great Falls area has a diverse job market, with key sectors including healthcare, retail, and government services.
The presence of the Air Force base also drives ancillary employment opportunities in support services, construction, and logistics. For military spouses, resources are available to assist with career development and job searching within the local economy and through remote work options (as reported by Malmstrom Air Force Base).
Malmstrom Air Force Base as an Employer
Malmstrom Air Force Base directly employs a large number of active-duty military members and Department of the Air Force civilians, totaling around 3,896 personnel (as reported by Malmstrom AFB). The base’s annual economic impact on the local economy is substantial, estimated at approximately $444 million in Fiscal Year 2025, and it also accounts for numerous indirect jobs (as reported by Malmstrom AFB).
The base is home to the 341st Missile Wing, which operates and maintains the Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile system, making it a critical national security asset and a stable source of employment. The base is also undergoing significant modernization, including the Sentinel missile upgrade program, which is expected to bring billions in investment and further job creation (as reported by MilitaryByOwner).
Local Job Market
The job market in the Great Falls area, influenced by Malmstrom AFB, includes opportunities in various sectors. Major employers in the vicinity often include healthcare systems like Benefis Health System, educational institutions such as Great Falls Public Schools, and various retail and service industries (as reported by The Electric, Indeed). The average salary for a Food Service Worker in Malmstrom AFB, MT, is $18.60 per hour (as reported by Indeed).
For those seeking employment related to aviation, positions like General Military Aircraft Mechanic can command higher hourly rates, ranging from $35 to $47 (as reported by ZipRecruiter). The unemployment rate in Malmstrom AFB CDP has shown a downward trend, decreasing from 5.4% in 2017 to 3.4% in 2023 (as reported by Census). The average hourly pay for jobs listed as “Malmstrom Afb Jobs” is $21.47 (as reported by ZipRecruiter).
Climate and Weather
Malmstrom Air Force Base experiences a semi-arid climate with significant seasonal variations. Summers are typically short, warm, and mostly clear, while winters are cold, snowy, windy, and partly cloudy (as reported by Malmstrom Air Force Base Climate). Temperatures can vary widely throughout the year, with average highs in the summer reaching into the 80s°F and winter lows often dropping into the 20s°F and below (as reported by Malmstrom Air Force Base Climate).
Precipitation is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, with May and June typically being the wettest months. Snowfall is common during the winter months, contributing to the cold conditions (as reported by Malmstrom Air Force Base Climate).
Temperature and Seasonal Variations
The temperature at Malmstrom Air Force Base typically ranges from 18°F to 87°F over the course of the year, rarely falling below -8°F or exceeding 96°F (as reported by Malmstrom Air Force Base Climate). The hot season lasts from mid-June to early September, with average daily high temperatures above 76°F, peaking in July with an average high of 85°F (as reported by Malmstrom Air Force Base Climate).
Conversely, the cold season spans from mid-November to early March, with average daily high temperatures below 46°F. December is the coldest month, with average lows around 21°F (as reported by Malmstrom Air Force Base Climate). Temperature variations between day and night can be substantial, especially during the summer.
Precipitation and Snowfall
Malmstrom Air Force Base receives an average annual precipitation of about 9.99 inches (as reported by Malmstrom Air Force Base Climate). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed, although May and June tend to be the wettest months, with June averaging around 2.3 inches of rain (as reported by Malmstrom Air Force Base Climate, WorldWeatherOnline).
Snowfall is a significant factor during the winter months. The annual average snowfall is approximately 63.5 inches, with March often being the snowiest month (as reported by MilBases.com). The combination of cold temperatures and snowfall characterizes the winter climate.
Education and Schools
Children living on Malmstrom Air Force Base typically attend schools within the Great Falls Public School System. This system includes multiple elementary, middle, and high schools serving the base and surrounding community (as reported by MilitaryByOwner). For families living off-base, several other school districts are also connected to the base community, such as Belt Public Schools and Cascade Public Schools (as reported by MilitaryByOwner).
The base also has a School Liaison Office that can provide support and information to military families regarding educational options and transitions (as reported by MilitaryByOwner). Resources are available to assist with navigating the school system and ensuring a smooth educational experience for children.
Great Falls Public School System
The Great Falls Public School System serves the children of Malmstrom AFB families, encompassing 15 elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools (as reported by MilitaryByOwner). This system aims to provide a comprehensive education to students in the area. Great Falls Public Schools has been recognized for its commitment to music education, receiving the Best Communities for Music Education Award from the NAMM Foundation (as reported by The Electric).
For families residing off-base, other local districts like Belt Public Schools, Cascade Public Schools, Centerville Public Schools, Sun River Valley School District, and Ulm Public School District are also considered within the Malmstrom AFB community’s educational network (as reported by MilitaryByOwner). The School Liaison Office at Malmstrom AFB can offer guidance on enrollment and school choice within these various districts.
Resources for Military Families
The School Liaison Office at Malmstrom AFB is a key resource for military families navigating educational matters. They can be reached for support regarding school enrollment, transfers, and any specific educational needs of children stationed at the base (as reported by MilitaryByOwner). The office serves as a bridge between families, schools, and the military command.
Additionally, resources such as the Military Spouse Education and Career Online Portals are available to support spouses in their educational and career pursuits. These programs aim to provide guidance and tools for career progression, especially during PCS moves (as reported by Malmstrom Air Force Base).
Demographics
Malmstrom Air Force Base’s population is approximately 4,302 residents, making it a moderately sized community within Montana (as reported by Malmstrom AFB Demographics). The median household income is reported at $64,833, with a poverty rate of 5.79% (as reported by World Population Review). The base population is notably young, with a median age of 22.5 years, indicating a significant presence of young adults and families (as reported by World Population Review).
The racial and ethnic makeup of Malmstrom AFB shows a majority White population, followed by Hispanic and Black or African American residents. A considerable portion of the population also identifies as belonging to two or more races (as reported by World Population Review).
Population Statistics
As of the most recent data, Malmstrom AFB is home to 4,302 residents, ranking it as the 31st most populated city in Montana out of 474 cities (as reported by Malmstrom AFB Demographics). The population is projected to reach 4,353 in 2026, indicating a slight annual growth rate (as reported by Malmstrom AFB Demographics). The gender distribution shows a higher proportion of males, with approximately 55.4% male and 44.6% female residents (as reported by Malmstrom AFB Demographics).
The base has 1,244 households, with an average of three members per household. A significant majority of these are family households, with 88.2% classified as such (as reported by Malmstrom AFB Demographics). The median age of 22.5 years suggests a community with a substantial number of young adults and children.
Racial and Ethnic Composition
The racial composition of Malmstrom AFB includes White residents at 56.6%, followed by Hispanic residents at 17.2%, and Black or African American residents at 11% (as reported by Malmstrom AFB Demographics). Other racial groups, including Asian, Native American, and Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander, represent smaller percentages of the population (as reported by Malmstrom AFB Demographics).
Additionally, 21.3% of the population identifies as belonging to two or more races (as reported by Malmstrom AFB Demographics). A high percentage of residents, 99.3%, are U.S. citizens, which is above the national average (as reported by Data USA).