Kalispell, MT vs Missoula, MT

Kalispell is moderately more affordable than Missoula, with a 7% lower cost of living index. Kalispell scores 95 compared to 102 for Missoula, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Missoula can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Kalispell is $1,019/month compared to $1,120/month in Missoula — a 9% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Kalispell is more affordable at $381,400 median vs $427,400.

Median household income in Kalispell is $61,590 compared to $65,329 in Missoula (-5.7%). The higher salaries in Missoula partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Kalispell spend roughly 19.9% of their income on rent, less than the 20.6% in Missoula.

Climate-wise, Missoula is notably warmer with an average of 45.2°F compared to 39.5°F in Kalispell. Kalispell receives more rainfall at 26.1" per year compared to 14.1" in Missoula.