Cost of Living in Madison County, Montana
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Madison County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Madison County ranks #226 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 7%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Madison County, Montana
Madison County renters exceed affordability limits
Madison County's 20.6% rent-to-income ratio significantly exceeds the 15% national standard and Montana's 15.9% state average. The $1,159 monthly median rent is 40% higher than the state average, driven partly by tourism and recreation demand in this scenic southwest region.
Among Montana's priciest rental markets
Madison County ranks among the state's least affordable counties for renters, with a 20.6% rent-to-income ratio substantially above Montana's 15.9% average. Only a handful of counties—notably Missoula and parts of the Gallatin Valley—face steeper affordability challenges.
Second-highest rents in this survey group
At $1,159 per month, Madison County's median rent trails only Missoula County ($1,125 is close, but Lewis and Clark at $1,062 is lower), and far exceeds the rural counties. This places Madison among the region's premium rental markets, rivaling Missoula despite a smaller population.
Recreation appeal comes with housing costs
Renters earning the median $67,420 annually spend roughly $13,908 on rent—a substantial 20.6% of gross income. Homeowners paying $849 monthly ($10,188 yearly) face lower ownership costs, but the median home value of $440,500 means significant down-payment and mortgage burdens for buyers.
Plan carefully for Montana's mountain living
Madison County's 20.6% rent-to-income ratio and $1,159 rents reflect its appeal to recreationalists and retirees—but affordability requires advance planning. If relocating here, secure income well above the $67,420 median or prioritize homeownership to lock in costs before property values climb further.
Cost of Living Advisory: Madison County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Madison County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,159/month in gross rent, with 24.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Madison County is $1,159/month, while owner costs run $849/month. Owning saves approximately $310/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $46,360/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $36,386/year. With a median household income of $67,420, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in Madison County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Madison County sits 6% more expensive than Flathead County ($1,094/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Madison County
Rent Burden
20.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,573
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.1%
of gross income
The median home in Madison County may be a stretch
Median home value is $440,500. Estimated monthly cost: $3,517 vs. your max of $1,573.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Madison County, Montana?
What is the median rent in Madison County?
Is Madison County affordable?
How does Madison County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Madison County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Madison County, Montana? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Madison County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.