Cost of Living in Lewis and Clark County, MT

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Lewis and Clark County? Estimated income taxes on that gross salary total approximately $10,264 per year — combining federal taxes with Montana's state income tax. Subtract rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ($1,647/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Lewis and Clark County metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $39,972, or roughly $3,331 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in Lewis and Clark County represents approximately 28% of gross income. That approaches the 30% threshold commonly used to define affordability. A smaller unit or a higher salary would improve the picture.