Cost of Living in Stillwater County, Montana
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Stillwater County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Stillwater County ranks #693 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 22%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Stillwater County, Montana
Stillwater's affluence cushions housing costs
Stillwater County's 14.3% rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the national average, bolstered by Montana's highest median household income of $81,503—9% above the national figure. Renters here pay $968 monthly while maintaining strong affordability relative to earnings.
Montana's highest earners, solid affordability
Stillwater's 14.3% rent-to-income ratio beats the state average of 15.9%, achieved through the state's strongest median household income of $81,503. This central Montana county combines robust earning potential with manageable housing burdens.
Premium prices offset by premium incomes
Stillwater's $968 median rent is the highest across all eight counties, yet its 14.3% rent-to-income ratio remains competitive because of its exceptional $81,503 median income. Only Ravalli ($1,054) pays more rent, but with lower income and worse affordability ratios.
Stillwater's high-income housing market
Renters allocate 14.3% of a $81,503 annual income—$968 monthly—to housing, among the lowest burdens despite highest rents. Homeowners spend $1,136 monthly (16.7% of income) for median homes valued at $355,600, reflecting a prosperous local economy supporting higher-priced real estate.
Montana's premium market for earners
Stillwater offers Montana's best income-to-affordability ratio, with the state's highest median earnings supporting moderate housing burden despite the region's highest rents. If you're relocating with above-average income potential, Stillwater provides Montana's strongest economic foundation.
Cost of Living Advisory: Stillwater County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Stillwater County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $968/month in gross rent, with 26.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Stillwater County is $968/month, while owner costs run $1,136/month. Renting saves approximately $168/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $38,720/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $48,686/year. With a median household income of $81,503, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Stillwater County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Stillwater County sits 7% more expensive than Cascade County ($902/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Stillwater County
Rent Burden
14.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,902
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.7%
of gross income
The median home in Stillwater County may be a stretch
Median home value is $355,600. Estimated monthly cost: $2,839 vs. your max of $1,902.
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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