Chinook, MT vs Deer Lodge, MT

Chinook, MT and Deer Lodge, MT have a very similar cost of living, with only a 2.3% difference in their overall index. Chinook scores 74 while Deer Lodge scores 72 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 Chinook is $811/month compared to $781/month in Deer Lodge — a 4% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Deer Lodge is more affordable at $196,400 median vs $205,900.

Median household income in Chinook is $71,500 compared to $53,676 in Deer Lodge (+33.2%). While Chinook is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Chinook spend roughly 13.6% of their income on rent, less than the 17.5% in Deer Lodge.