Columbia Falls, MT vs West Glendive, MT

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. West Glendive is 28% 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 West Glendive 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 $794/month in West Glendive — a 26% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: West Glendive is more affordable at $179,700 median vs $346,700.

Median household income in Columbia Falls is $65,313 compared to $57,743 in West Glendive (+13.1%). Columbia Falls does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of Columbia Falls spend roughly 18.4% of their income on rent, more than the 16.5% in West Glendive.