Montana Ranks 48th in AI Search Activity, Behind Only Two States

Montana residents conduct the third-lowest volume of artificial intelligence searches in the United States, according to a new ranking by CrowdReply. The analysis places the state 48th out of 50 when measuring AI search activity.

Only South Dakota and West Virginia report lower rates of AI engagement. CrowdReply determined these rankings by analyzing Google search data for various AI chatbots over the past 12 months. The metric used was the number of AI-related searches per 100,000 residents.

Montana averages 24,515.72 AI-related searches per 100,000 people. New York sits at the top of the list with 52,486.78 searches per 100,000 residents. California and Georgia also appear near the top of the rankings for AI search activity.

Researchers noted that internet access may explain the state's low position. Rural communities in Montana have historically struggled with reliable high-speed connections. While services like Starlink, TDS fiber, and Spectrum have improved connectivity in many areas, access remains a challenge in some remote parts of the state.

The study measures search behavior rather than total usage. A lower search count does not confirm that Montanans use AI tools less frequently than their counterparts in other states. It tracks only the specific action of typing AI-related queries into Google.

The data reflects a trend where AI is becoming a common tool for work and daily life. Some observers view the low ranking as a buffer against the potential risks of rapid technology adoption. Others see it as a lag in adopting tools that can save time and improve efficiency.

Montana currently trails the national average in online AI engagement. The state’s position suggests a slower pace of digital adoption compared to the rest of the country.