Northside, Missoula,MT

If you’re thinking about moving to Missoula, MT, the Northside neighborhood is a fantastic option to consider. This area is known for its friendly community vibe and a wonderful mix of historic charm and modern living. Residents here enjoy easy access to a variety of local shops, cozy cafes, and beautiful parks, making it a great place for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. One of the highlights is the popular Caras Park, which often hosts outdoor concerts, farmers markets, and community events, perfect for anyone wanting to stay connected and active in the neighborhood.

Northside is conveniently situated just a short drive or bike ride northwest of Downtown Missoula, allowing residents to easily enjoy the city’s vibrant arts scene, diverse dining options, and bustling nightlife. Despite its proximity to the city center, Northside maintains a laid-back, small-town feel with tree-lined streets and historic homes that add character to the neighborhood. For outdoor lovers, the Clark Fork River runs nearby, providing scenic spots for fishing, kayaking, and peaceful walks along well-maintained trails.

What really makes Northside stand out are community gems like the Missoula Farmers Market, where locals gather to buy fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious baked goods. The neighborhood is also home to several excellent schools and community centers, making it an ideal spot for families. With its combination of recreational opportunities, cultural attractions, and easy access to Downtown Missoula, Northside offers a welcoming and convenient lifestyle for anyone relocating to the area.

About 30% of the Northside population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 15% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Northside demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 2,547 residents, Northside is notably smaller than many other Missoula neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

With a lower than average population density of 993 people per square mile, Northside offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Missoula neighborhoods. This often means quieter streets, less congestion, and a relaxed atmosphere — all while still providing access to the amenities and conveniences of city living.

With a lower-than-average age of 31, you're likely to find a noticeably youthful energy and vibrant atmosphere. This younger population brings a dynamic mix of activity, innovation, and community involvement, shaping a neighborhood that feels lively, forward-thinking, and full of opportunity — making it an especially appealing choice for younger adults looking for an active and engaging community.

The Northside crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Northside, the median home price is about $368,350, which is on par with many comparable areas. This average pricing reflects a stable, affordable housing market and makes the neighborhood an appealing choice for a wide range of buyers seeking both value and long-term potential. Examining how home prices and appreciation rates in Northside have shifted over time can reveal important clues about the neighborhood’s future value. These trends help potential buyers and investors understand market momentum and determine whether the area is likely to deliver strong returns over the long term.

The median rent is around $1,100, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Northside. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in Northside offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.