Cost of Living in Ravalli County, Montana
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Ravalli County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Ravalli County ranks #738 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 23%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Ravalli County, Montana
Ravalli's rent pinch vs. the nation
Ravalli County residents spend 17.7% of household income on rent, nearly 2 percentage points above the national average of around 15.9%. With a median household income of $71,323—slightly below the national median of $74,755—renters here face tighter housing budgets than most Americans.
Among Montana counties, less affordable
Ravalli's 17.7% rent-to-income ratio ranks it among Montana's less affordable counties, above the state average of 15.9%. At $1,054 monthly rent versus the state median of $825, Ravalli's housing costs significantly outpace rural county peers.
Pricier than Missoula area rivals
Ravalli renters pay $1,054 monthly—$229 more than neighboring Rosebud County and $186 more than Sanders County. Only Stillwater County to the northeast shows comparable rental costs, suggesting Ravalli occupies a unique affordability zone in southwestern Montana.
Where Ravalli income goes to housing
A typical Ravalli renter spends 17.7% of $71,323 annual income on rent alone—$1,054 monthly. Homeowners fare better proportionally, with a median monthly cost of $1,065 capturing about 17.9% of household income, while median home values reach $435,000.
Consider your housing priorities here
If you're weighing Ravalli's higher rent and home prices against Montana alternatives, nearby Rosebud ($644 rent) and Sheridan ($749 rent) counties offer significantly lower housing costs. Stillwater County ($81,503 median income) provides the highest earning potential in this region, offsetting higher ownership costs.
Cost of Living Advisory: Ravalli County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Ravalli County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,054/month in gross rent, with 28.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Ravalli County pay $1,054/month on average, compared to $1,065/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 1%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $42,160/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $45,643/year. With a median household income of $71,323, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Ravalli County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Montana, Ravalli County is more affordable than Treasure County by roughly 6% ($1,054/mo vs $992/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Ravalli County
Rent Burden
17.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,664
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.9%
of gross income
The median home in Ravalli County may be a stretch
Median home value is $435,000. Estimated monthly cost: $3,473 vs. your max of $1,664.
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 Ravalli County, Montana?
What is the median rent in Ravalli County?
Is Ravalli County affordable?
How does Ravalli County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Ravalli County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Ravalli County, Montana? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Ravalli 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.