Can I Afford to Live in Montana?
Montana - Big Sky Country with unmatched outdoor lifestyle and growing remote work appeal. See median rent, home values, and the most affordable ZIP codes below.
Find ZIP Codes You Can Afford in Montana
Enter your salary to see neighborhoods in your budget.
🏠 To Buy in Montana
With median home value of $385,000, you'd typically need an income of at least $96,250/year and a down payment of $38,500 (10%).
🏘️ To Rent in Montana
With median rent of $1,100/month, you should earn at least $40K/year (30% rent-to-income rule). This is below the US median of $1,163/mo.
💰 Median Income
Montana residents earn a median household income of $60,560/year. Rent takes approximately 22% of median income.
Most Affordable ZIP Codes in Montana
Ranked by lowest median rent, minimum population 3,000+
Top-Rated Neighborhoods in Montana
Highest ZipScore - best combination of safety, schools, and quality of life
FAQs: Living in Montana
What salary do I need to live comfortably in Montana?
To live comfortably in Montana, you'd want to earn at least $39,600/year to rent at the median price without being cost-burdened (spending more than 30% of income on housing). To buy at the median home price of $385,000, aim for a salary of $96,250+.
Is Montana expensive to live in?
Montana has a median rent of $1,100/month, which is below the US national median of $1,163. Cost varies significantly by city and neighborhood - the table above shows the most affordable ZIP codes in Montana.
What is the most affordable city in Montana?
The most affordable ZIP codes in Montana are ranked in the table above by median rent. Smaller cities and suburbs typically offer significantly lower costs than the major metro areas. Click any ZIP code to see its full neighborhood profile.