Harlowton, MT vs Montana City, MT

The cost of living difference between Harlowton, MT and Montana City, MT is dramatic. Harlowton is 36.7% cheaper than Montana City, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Harlowton has a cost index of 71 while Montana City sits at 111, 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 Harlowton is $766/month compared to $1,206/month in Montana City — a 37% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Harlowton is more affordable at $178,800 median vs $519,100.

Median household income in Harlowton is $53,750 compared to $125,223 in Montana City (-57.1%). While Montana City is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Harlowton spend roughly 17.1% of their income on rent, more than the 11.6% in Montana City.

Climate-wise, Montana City is notably warmer with an average of 45.5°F compared to 40.6°F in Harlowton. Harlowton receives more rainfall at 16.8" per year compared to 11.4" in Montana City.