Yellowstone National Park's Resident Population: 4,146 (2020 Census)

According to the 2020 US Census, **4,146 people** reside within Yellowstone National Park boundaries. This population is distributed across three states:

• Wyoming: ~3,900 (Park County, Teton County)
• Montana: ~200 (Gallatin County, Park County)
• Idaho: ~46 (Fremont County — tiny sliver)

Who Lives in a National Park?

• NPS employees: Rangers, maintenance, administration, scientists (~800 permanent + seasonal)
• Concession staff: Xanterra, Delaware North, Yellowstone Park Service Stations employees (lodging, dining, retail, fuel)
• Researchers: USGS, university field stations, visiting scientists
• Contractors: Construction, utilities, telecommunications
• Families: Employee housing in Mammoth, Old Faithful, Canyon, Grant Village, Lake

Living Conditions

• No private land ownership (all federal)
• Housing assigned by employer; limited availability
• Winter isolation: heavy snow, road closures, limited services
• No K-12 schools inside park; children bus to Gardiner (MT) or Cody (WY)
• Medical care: clinics at Mammoth, Old Faithful, Lake; hospitals 50+ miles away

Distinction: Residents vs. Visitors

4,146 residents ≠ 3-4 million annual visitors. Most visitors stay in gateway communities (West Yellowstone, Gardiner, Cody, Jackson, Cooke City, Island Park).