The document summarizes economic trends in Helena, Montana between 2001-2014. It shows that prior to the recession, Helena experienced steady growth in nonfarm labor income and employment. However, during the recession between 2008-2009, nonfarm labor income declined. The economic base of Helena is reliant on government employment from state and local levels, which remains stable but with modest growth. The recovery of the construction industry, an important sector previously, is expected to be slow. Overall, nonfarm labor income is projected to gradually increase over the coming years but at a slower pace than before the recession.

2. Local Outlook: Helena
By Paul E. Polzin
Director Emeritus
Bureau of Business and Economic Research
The University of Montana

3. Annual Percent Change in
Nonfarm Labor Income
(in Constant Dollars), 2001‐2007
Percent

4. Annual Percent Change in
Nonfarm Labor Income
(in Constant Dollars) , 2008‐2009
Percent

5. Nonfarm Employment
(Seasonally Adjusted),
Lewis & Clark County
Recession Declared, Dec. 2007

6. Annual Percent Change in
Construction Labor Income
(in Constant Dollars), Lewis & Clark County
Percent

7. Lewis & Clark County’s
Economic Base
2008‐2010
• Other 10%
• Manufacturing 5% Stable
• Trade Center 16% Slower Growth
• Federal Government 24% Stable at Best
• State Government 45% Modest Pay Increase
Construction Slow Recovery

8. Actual and Projected Change in Nonfarm
Labor Income, Lewis & Clark County,
2007‐2014
Percent Actual Projected
‘01-’07
‘10-’14

9. Projected Annual Percent Change in
Nonfarm Labor Income
(in Constant Dollars) 2010‐2014
Percent

10. Questions
?