Montana, known as the "Big Sky Country", is a scenic Big Sky state with rising costs due to post-pandemic migration. Here is everything you need to know about the cost of living in the Big Sky Country — from housing and groceries to taxes, utilities, childcare, and what salary you actually need.
Here is what a typical month costs in Montana for a single person earning the median income of $60,600/year:
Each category shows how Montana compares to the national average. Green means cheaper, yellow means similar, orange/red means more expensive.
Adjust your salary to see a detailed monthly budget breakdown for living in Montana.
Select a state to see how much salary you would need there to maintain the same lifestyle you have in Montana.
The most popular cities for residents and newcomers in Montana:
Housing is the single biggest expense in Montana, as it is everywhere. The median home price in Montana is $445,000, and the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,000/month. With a housing cost index of 113, Montana housing is 13% more expensive than the national average.
Housing costs in Montana are above average but manageable for households earning the median income. The 30% rule (spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing) is achievable in most areas.
Montana has a state income tax rate of 5.9%. On the median household income of $60,600, you will pay approximately $3,575/year in state income tax ($298/month). This is a moderate rate that most households can absorb.
The average single person in Montana spends approximately $410/month on groceries. A family of four can expect to spend $1,025-$1,230/month. The food cost index of 98 means groceries in Montana are 2% below the national average.
Gas prices in Montana average $3.35/gallon. For the average commuter driving 15,000 miles/year at 25 MPG, that is roughly $2,010/year in fuel costs.
Montana healthcare costs are 7% above the national average (index: 107). The average annual healthcare cost per person in Montana is approximately $6,420 including premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. Employer-sponsored health insurance covers the majority of working adults.
Infant daycare in Montana averages $900/month ($10,800/year). This is a substantial but manageable expense for dual-income households. Many families in Montana find that one parent staying home is more cost-effective when two or more children need daycare.
Montana offers a solid balance of cost, opportunity, and quality of life. With costs near the national average, you get access to growing job markets in Billings and Missoula, and a cost of living that leaves room for saving and investing.
See all Montana financial calculators:
Montana (MT) has a cost of living index of 103, meaning it is 3% more expensive than the US average. Housing is the biggest factor with an index of 113. The median rent is $1,000/month and the median home price is $445,000. Montana ranks #32 out of 50 states for affordability (1 = cheapest).
For a single person, a comfortable salary in Montana is approximately $78,780/year ($6,565/month). For a family of four, aim for $133,320/year. This covers housing at 30% of income, groceries ($410/mo), transportation, healthcare, and a 15% savings rate. The median household income in Montana is $60,600.
The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Montana is approximately $1,000/month. A two-bedroom averages $1,350/month. Rent varies significantly by city: Billings, Missoula, Great Falls are the most popular metro areas. Housing costs in Montana are above average — budget carefully.
Montana offers a balanced lifestyle with costs near the national average. Growing job markets in Billings and Missoula attract new residents.
The most affordable areas in Montana are typically smaller cities and rural areas away from the major metros. Within Montana, costs can vary 20-40% between the most expensive city (Billings metro) and more affordable areas. Bozeman and Helena tend to offer lower costs while still providing good amenities and job opportunities.
The average monthly grocery bill in Montana for a single person is approximately $410 ($1,025 for a family of four). Montana food costs are 2% below the national average. Shopping at Walmart, Aldi, and local discount stores can reduce this by 15-25%.
The average monthly electric bill in Montana is approximately $105. Total utilities (electric, gas, water, internet) average $231/month. Montana utilities are 13% below the national average. Utility costs are manageable for most households.
Montana has a state income tax rate of 5.9%. On the median household income of $60,600, that is approximately $3,575/year in state income tax. This is a moderate rate near the national average.