Solar Installers Market: ZIP 59601
Opportunity Score
65
/ 100
Good
Based on walkability, population density, income levels, and local business competition.
Market Summary
ZIP 59601 is an urban area with low foot traffic. with a population of 31,822 and household incomes near the national median ($70,502). There are 17 solar installers operations in ZIP 59601.
Area Profile
31,822
Population
$70,502
Median Income
-5% vs. national
Urban
Area Type
9.3/20
Foot Traffic
Very Car-Dependent
Median Age: 41.1 —
older demographic, may prefer sit-down options.
College-Educated: 36.3% —
balanced market for quality & value.
Competition
Solar Installers and related businesses in ZIP 59601.
17
Solar Installers
Moderate — proven market
5.3 per 10K residents
3
Roofing Contractors
0.9 per 10K residents
What this means:
Solar Installers are 85.0% of the relevant market in ZIP 59601 (17 vs. 3 related businesses).
Well-established market — differentiation is non-negotiable.
Operating Costs
Local cost levels affect space, labor, and operating expenses.
$1,340
2BR Fair Market Rent
$1,023
Median Gross Rent
$360 K
Median Home Value
20
Bank Branches
$2 M deposits
Tips for Starting a Solar Business in Montana
- The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is the single biggest factor in your customers' buying decisions. Know the current rate and expiration timeline cold.
- Become a certified installer for at least two major panel manufacturers. Certification unlocks better wholesale pricing and warranty terms.
- Permitting and interconnection timelines vary wildly by utility. In some territories it takes 2 weeks. In others, 6 months. Map this before you set customer expectations.
- Roof condition kills more solar deals than price objections. Partner with a roofer or learn to assess roof life remaining.
Quick Facts
- Area Type
- Urban
- Foot Traffic
- Very Car-Dependent
- Solar Installers
- 17
- Related Businesses
- 3
- Bank Branches
- 20
vs. National Average
Median Income
-5% vs. $74,580
Walkability
-1.2 pts vs. national avg
Nearby Markets
Check Another Market
Or estimate costs with the SolarBreakeven calculator.
About This Data
Data sources
U.S. Census Bureau (ACS, ZBP) · HUD Fair Market Rents · EPA Walkability Index · USDA RUCA · IRS SOI · FDIC Summary of Deposits