Hot Springs, MT vs West Yellowstone, MT

The cost of living difference between Hot Springs, MT and West Yellowstone, MT is dramatic. Hot Springs is 34.6% cheaper than West Yellowstone, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Hot Springs has a cost index of 65 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 Hot Springs is $683/month compared to $1,035/month in West Yellowstone — a 34% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Hot Springs is more affordable at $139,100 median vs $402,600.

Median household income in Hot Springs is $21,319 compared to $57,167 in West Yellowstone (-62.7%). While West Yellowstone is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Hot Springs spend roughly 38.4% of their income on rent, more than the 21.7% in West Yellowstone. The West Yellowstone ratio exceeds the commonly recommended 30% threshold, which can put pressure on household budgets.

Climate-wise, Hot Springs is notably warmer with an average of 47.7°F compared to 32°F in West Yellowstone. West Yellowstone receives more rainfall at 23.1" per year compared to 16.4" in Hot Springs.