New Report Reveals Montana Hotel Safety Concerns

Tourist season is already ramping up across Montana, and this summer could bring even bigger crowds than usual. With America celebrating its 250th birthday in 2026, experts expect national parks and travel destinations across the country to see a major increase in visitors. That likely means even more people heading to places like Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park after both parks posted huge attendance numbers last year.

The Importance of Safe Lodging While Traveling

Of course, one of the biggest parts of planning any trip is figuring out where you are going to stay. Whether it’s a hotel, motel, roadside lodge, or vacation property, travelers usually just want a clean and safe place to sleep after a long day on the road. But according to a new national study, Montana may not be one of the safest states when it comes to hotel stays.

What the Data Reveals: A Study on Hotel Safety

A recent report from Murphy & Prachthauser Attorneys at Law analyzed FBI Crime Data Explorer statistics involving crimes reported near hotels and motels from 2016 through 2025. The study looked at both violent crime and property crime rates near lodging locations across the country.

The results were eye-opening for Montana travelers.

According to the study, Montana ranked as the fifth most dangerous state in the nation for violent crimes reported near hotels and motels, with a rate of 113.6 incidents per 100,000 residents. Only New Mexico, South Carolina, North Dakota, and South Dakota ranked worse.

Montana also ranked third in the country for property crimes reported near hotels, including theft and burglary incidents. The report additionally placed Montana fifth nationwide for vehicle thefts occurring near hotels and motels.

Contextualizing Crime Rates in Smaller States: A Deeper Look

The study’s authors noted that smaller-population states like Montana can sometimes appear higher in per-capita rankings because even a moderate number of incidents can significantly affect statewide rates. Still, the report serves as a reminder for travelers to stay aware of their surroundings while on vacation.

That does not mean travelers should avoid visiting Montana or staying in hotels altogether. Millions of people safely visit Big Sky Country every year. But experts recommend taking a few simple precautions while traveling, including:

Parking in well-lit areas
Keeping valuables out of sight
Double-checking hotel locks
Staying aware of surroundings in parking lots
Choosing lodging with strong reviews and security measures

For many longtime Montanans, the findings may come as a surprise. Montana often feels safer and quieter than larger states, especially in smaller communities. But as tourism numbers continue climbing, travelers may want to be a little more cautious about where they stay and how they protect themselves and their belongings.