Dixon, MT vs Gardiner, MT

The cost of living difference between Dixon, MT and Gardiner, MT is dramatic. Dixon is 36.1% cheaper than Gardiner, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Dixon has a cost index of 68 while Gardiner sits at 107, making this one of the more striking comparisons on our site. Relocating between these cities would require a serious reassessment of budget and lifestyle expectations.

On the housing front, median rent in Dixon is $740/month compared to $795/month in Gardiner — a 7% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Dixon is more affordable at $159,400 median vs $609,200.

Median household income in Dixon is $43,750 compared to $57,835 in Gardiner (-24.4%). The higher salaries in Gardiner partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Dixon spend roughly 20.3% of their income on rent, more than the 16.5% in Gardiner.

Climate-wise, Dixon is notably warmer with an average of 47.7°F compared to 32°F in Gardiner. Gardiner receives more rainfall at 23.1" per year compared to 16.4" in Dixon.