Hardin, MT vs West Yellowstone, MT

The cost of living difference between Hardin, MT and West Yellowstone, MT is dramatic. Hardin is 33% cheaper than West Yellowstone, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Hardin has a cost index of 66 while West Yellowstone sits at 99, 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 Hardin is $726/month compared to $1,035/month in West Yellowstone — a 30% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Hardin is more affordable at $142,800 median vs $402,600.

Median household income in Hardin is $60,463 compared to $57,167 in West Yellowstone (+5.8%). 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 Hardin spend roughly 14.4% of their income on rent, less than the 21.7% in West Yellowstone.

Climate-wise, Hardin is notably warmer with an average of 48.2°F compared to 32°F in West Yellowstone. West Yellowstone receives more rainfall at 23.1" per year compared to 14.3" in Hardin.