Cost of Living in Missoula, MT

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Missoula? 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 ($1,655/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Missoula metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $39,876, or roughly $3,323 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The Missoula metro has a cost of living index of 92.7 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). This gives Missoula a moderate affordability advantage — groceries, dining, and services tend to cost less than the U.S. average.

At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in Missoula 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.