Columbia Falls, MT vs Libby, MT

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Libby is 28.6% cheaper than Columbia Falls. With a cost index of 71 vs 91, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Libby to Columbia Falls should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Columbia Falls is $1,003/month compared to $679/month in Libby — a 48% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Libby is more affordable at $218,500 median vs $346,700.

Median household income in Columbia Falls is $65,313 compared to $39,261 in Libby (+66.4%). While Columbia Falls is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Columbia Falls spend roughly 18.4% of their income on rent, less than the 20.8% in Libby.