Cost of Living in Missoula County, Montana
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Missoula County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Missoula County ranks #2,869 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 9%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Missoula County, Montana
Missoula renters exceed affordability thresholds
Missoula County's 18.9% rent-to-income ratio significantly exceeds the 15% national standard and Montana's 15.9% state average. At $1,125 per month, median rent is 36% above the state average, driven by the county's role as Montana's second-largest city and a destination for young professionals and students.
Among Montana's least affordable rental markets
Missoula County ranks among the state's most expensive rental markets, with an 18.9% rent-to-income ratio well above Montana's 15.9% average. Only a few western and resort-adjacent counties rival its rental costs, reflecting strong demand from the University of Montana, tech workers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Premium pricing for urban amenities
Missoula's $1,125 rent trails only Lewis and Clark's $1,062 (close) and falls just short of Madison County's $1,159, making it one of the region's priciest markets. The premium reflects Missoula's vibrant downtown, cultural institutions, breweries, and university presence—amenities rural counties cannot match.
Urban living comes with housing costs
Renters earning the median $71,246 spend approximately $13,500 annually on rent—18.9% of gross income. Homeowners face steeper ownership costs at $1,425 monthly ($17,100 yearly); the median home value of $423,100 reflects Missoula's popularity and creates significant barriers to homeownership for many residents.
Value city amenities against budget constraints
Missoula's 18.9% rent-to-income ratio and $1,125 rents signal the trade-off between urban amenities and affordability. If relocating here, prioritize earning above the $71,246 median—or consider adjacent rural counties offering lower costs with reasonable access to Missoula's attractions.
Cost of Living Advisory: Missoula County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Missoula County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,125/month in gross rent, with 29.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Missoula County pay $1,125/month on average, compared to $1,425/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 21%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $45,000/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $61,071/year. With a median household income of $71,246, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Missoula County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Missoula County sits 5% more expensive than Sweet Grass County ($1,073/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Missoula County
Rent Burden
18.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,662
per month
Owner Cost Burden
24.0%
of gross income
The median home in Missoula County may be a stretch
Median home value is $423,100. Estimated monthly cost: $3,378 vs. your max of $1,662.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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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
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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