Harlowton, MT vs Red Lodge, MT

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Harlowton is 18.8% cheaper than Red Lodge. With a cost index of 71 vs 87, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Harlowton to Red Lodge should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Harlowton is $766/month compared to $805/month in Red Lodge — a 5% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Harlowton is more affordable at $178,800 median vs $374,900.

Median household income in Harlowton is $53,750 compared to $43,857 in Red Lodge (+22.6%). Harlowton offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Harlowton spend roughly 17.1% of their income on rent, less than the 22% in Red Lodge.

Climate-wise, Red Lodge is notably warmer with an average of 48.2°F compared to 40.6°F in Harlowton. Harlowton receives more rainfall at 16.8" per year compared to 14.3" in Red Lodge.