WalletHub Ranks Montana Among Worst States for Singles

The Big Sky State lands near the bottom of the list for dating opportunities, but fares better in dating economics and romance.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

According to the latest WalletHub rankings, Montana is one of the worst states for singles in 2026. The state ranked 44th for dating opportunities, largely due to its smaller population, but fared better at 9th for dating economics thanks to its lower cost of living. Overall, Montana came in as the 37th worst state for singles, with a middle-of-the-road ranking of 25th for romance and fun.

Why it matters

As more people seek partners in the post-pandemic world, the challenges of dating in less populous states like Montana are coming into focus. While the state's lower costs may make dates more affordable, the smaller pool of potential matches presents obstacles for singles looking to make connections.

The details

WalletHub evaluated states across three key categories: dating opportunities, dating economics, and romance and fun. Montana struggled the most in dating opportunities, ranking 44th, likely due to its smaller overall population compared to more urban states. However, the state fared better in dating economics, coming in 9th, thanks to its relatively low cost of living. Overall, Montana was ranked the 37th worst state for singles.

  • WalletHub released its annual rankings of the best and worst states for singles in 2026.

The players

WalletHub

A personal finance website that conducts research and provides data-driven content.

Montana

A state in the northwestern United States known for its vast landscapes, outdoor recreation, and relatively small population.

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What’s next

The article suggests that singles in Montana may want to research which counties have the highest STI rates before planning their next date night.

The takeaway

While Montana's lower cost of living may make dating more affordable, the state's smaller population presents challenges for singles looking to make connections. This highlights the unique difficulties of dating in less populous regions, even as online tools aim to expand dating opportunities.