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Cost of Living in Missoula

Is it better to rent or buy in Missoula? Explore median costs, utility estimates, and run the numbers on your own budget to see how far your income goes.

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Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

Adjust the sliders to match your scenario. We recommend keeping total housing costs under 40% of your gross income.

$78,521
$1,247/mo

Median in area: $1,247

$489,552

Median in area: $489,552

$97,910

If you Rent

🔑
$1,418 /mo
Base Rent$1,247
Est. Utilities$171
% of Income21.7%
Pre-tax Residual$5,125

If you Buy

🏠
$3,119 /mo
P&I (6.5%)$2,475
Taxes & Ins$473
Est. Utilities$171
% of Income47.7%
Pre-tax Residual$3,424

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Missoula?›

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in Missoula. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,418, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $3,119 per month (a difference of $1,701).

How much do utilities cost in Missoula?›

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in Missoula is approximately $171. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in Missoula?›

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in Missoula without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $56,720 per year.