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Montana Ranks Near Bottom in Financial Literacy
New study highlights gaps in money management education and skills across the state
Apr. 7, 2026 at 4:56pm
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A conceptual illustration highlighting the importance of financial literacy education for Montana's economic future.Big Sky TodayA recent report from WalletHub has found that Montana ranks 45th in the nation for financial literacy, with low marks in both financial habits and education. The study underscores the need for more attention on teaching real-world money management skills, especially as credit card debt and economic uncertainty continue to rise across the country.
Why it matters
Financial literacy is crucial for helping people handle debt, build savings, and plan for the future. However, many Americans, including Montanans, feel unprepared when it comes to managing their finances. This gap in financial education can have significant impacts on individuals' financial well-being and the overall economic health of the state.
The details
The WalletHub study examined financial literacy across all 50 states, looking at factors like credit scores, savings habits, and the availability of financial education programs. While some states like Minnesota and Colorado ranked highly, Montana fell near the bottom at 45th overall. The state scored particularly low in the areas of financial habits and financial education, indicating a need for more focus on teaching personal finance skills in schools and communities.
- The WalletHub study on financial literacy across the U.S. was released on April 7, 2026.
The players
WalletHub
A personal finance website that conducts research and analysis on financial topics.
Minnesota
The state that ranked first in the WalletHub financial literacy study, thanks to its strong financial education programs in schools.
What’s next
Experts suggest that Montana should focus on implementing more comprehensive financial education programs in schools and communities to help improve the state's overall financial literacy levels.
The takeaway
The low ranking for Montana in financial literacy highlights the need for greater investment in personal finance education across the state. Improving these skills can have a significant impact on individuals' financial well-being and the economic health of Montana communities.
