Cost of Living in Montana — Housing, Taxes & Everyday Expenses
Outdoor paradise, rising costs, remote lifestyle
Data: 2026-Q2 · BLS · HUD · KFFOverview
Montana offers stunning outdoor landscapes but has seen significant housing cost increases as remote workers relocated from coastal cities. No sales tax is an advantage.
Housing costs
Median 1BR rent in Bozeman is approximately $1,800 (rose sharply post-2020). Billings and Missoula are approximately $1,200.
Tax reality
5.9% top rate 2025 (Tax Foundation; reduced to 5.65% in 2026)
Everyday expenses
At a cost of living index of 102, Montana is about 2% more expensive than the national average of 100. Montana has no sales tax, which partially offsets higher housing costs in Bozeman and Missoula.
Salary reality in Montana
$40-60k ~$3,272/mo take-home
$60-80k ~$4,458/mo take-home
$80-100k ~$5,533/mo take-home
FAQ
Cost of Living in Montana — FAQ
Does Montana have a sales tax?
No. Montana has no sales tax, which is a meaningful advantage on everyday purchases.
What is Montana's income tax rate?
Montana has a top income tax rate of 6.9%.