Hardest Water in Montana
8 cities ranked by water hardness. Helena tops the list at 160 PPM.
Montana's water hardness varies significantly by city and water source. The state average across our database is 74 PPM, which is moderately hard. Some cities need treatment while others do not. 13% of cities we track in Montana have hardness above 120 PPM.
Missoula has the softest water at just 16 PPM. No softener is needed.
| # | City | PPM | GPG | Level | Softener? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Helena | 160 | 9.4 | Hard | Recommended |
| 2 | Havre | 110 | 6.4 | Moderately Hard | Optional |
| 3 | Bozeman | 79 | 4.6 | Moderately Hard | Optional |
| 4 | Great Falls | 71 | 4.2 | Moderately Hard | Optional |
| 5 | Billings | 65 | 3.8 | Moderately Hard | Optional |
| 6 | Butte | 55 | 3.2 | Slightly Hard | No |
| 7 | Kalispell | 35 | 2 | Slightly Hard | No |
| 8 | Missoula | 16 | 0.9 | Soft | No |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average water hardness in Montana?
Across 8 cities in our database, the average water hardness in Montana is 74 PPM (4.3 GPG). This ranges from 16 PPM in Missoula to 160 PPM in Helena.
Do I need a water softener in Montana?
It depends on your city. 13% of Montana cities in our database (1 of 8) have hardness above 120 PPM where a softener provides measurable benefit. Check your specific city above.
Which Montana city has the softest water?
Missoula has the softest water in Montana at 16 PPM (0.9 GPG). No water softener is needed at this level.
What causes hard water in Montana?
Hard water in Montana is caused by dissolved calcium and magnesium from the local geology. Regional geology varies, with some areas having limestone bedrock that adds minerals and others with granite or sandstone that produces softer water.