Butte–Bozeman, Montana Media Landscape Overview

The Butte–Bozeman DMA spans southwestern Montana with higher education, tourism, outdoor, healthcare, and small business growth shaping coverage. Broadcasters lead on winter weather, wildfire, and travel; OTA viewing is complemented by CTV and mobile alerts.

Regional & Public‑Safety Coverage

Affiliates emphasize weather, road conditions, and community features; public media extend statewide reporting and education.

Mobile and social deliver quick updates on closures, trail conditions, and events.

Leading Television Channels

• ABC/CBS/NBC/FOX (local affiliates): Daypart newscasts, weather, and sports.
• PBS (Montana PBS): Educational programming and civic forums.
• CW/MyNetworkTV: Syndicated entertainment and local magazine shows.

Major Radio Broadcasting Networks

• News/Talk: Weather, travel, and community affairs.
• Country/Classic Rock/AC: Music formats with local remotes.
• Public Radio: Statewide news and arts.

Media Consumption Patterns & Audience Behavior

Broadcast Reliability

OTA TV remains essential for winter weather and closures; outdoor and sports coverage drive weekend spikes.

Streaming & Mobile

CTV apps and push alerts extend reach; short‑form clips sustain engagement beyond evening newscasts.

Market Metrics & Industry Statistics

Media Trust & Consumer Preferences

Local Trust

Meteorologists and community anchors sustain loyalty; timely alerts lead engagement.

Preferences

Live weather, preps, and family entertainment dominate attention.

Sources

• https://www.montanapbs.org/
• https://www.nielsen.com/us/en/insights/report/2025/the-gauge-may-2025/
• https://www.fcc.gov/media/television/broadcast-ownership