Anaconda-Deer Lodge County, MT vs Hardin, MT

Anaconda-Deer Lodge County, MT and Hardin, MT have a very similar cost of living, with only a 4.7% difference in their overall index. Anaconda-Deer Lodge County scores 69 while Hardin scores 66 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Anaconda-Deer Lodge County is $661/month compared to $726/month in Hardin — a 9% difference. Interestingly, home values tell a different story: while Anaconda-Deer Lodge County has cheaper rent, Hardin actually has lower median home values ($142,800 vs $209,700).

Median household income in Anaconda-Deer Lodge County is $49,533 compared to $60,463 in Hardin (-18.1%). Hardin offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Anaconda-Deer Lodge County spend roughly 16% of their income on rent, more than the 14.4% in Hardin.