Hays, MT vs Lakeside, MT

The cost of living difference between Hays, MT and Lakeside, MT is dramatic. Hays is 55.1% cheaper than Lakeside, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Hays has a cost index of 54 while Lakeside sits at 121, 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.

When it comes to buying, median home values in Hays are $61,100 compared to $589,500 in Lakeside, a 90% gap.

Median household income in Hays is $57,875 compared to $83,958 in Lakeside (-31.1%). The higher salaries in Lakeside partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap.

Climate-wise, Hays is notably warmer with an average of 43.6°F compared to 39.5°F in Lakeside. Lakeside receives more rainfall at 26.1" per year compared to 11.8" in Hays.