Helena West Side, MT vs Shelby, MT

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Shelby is 23.2% cheaper than Helena West Side. With a cost index of 73 vs 90, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Shelby to Helena West Side should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Helena West Side is $781/month compared to $769/month in Shelby — a 2% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Shelby is more affordable at $206,000 median vs $411,800.

Median household income in Helena West Side is $67,692 compared to $53,357 in Shelby (+26.9%). While Helena West Side is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Helena West Side spend roughly 13.8% of their income on rent, less than the 17.3% in Shelby.

Climate-wise, Helena West Side is notably warmer with an average of 45.5°F compared to 41.8°F in Shelby. Helena West Side receives more rainfall at 11.4" per year compared to 10.8" in Shelby.