Shelby, MT vs West Yellowstone, MT

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Shelby is 26.5% cheaper than West Yellowstone. With a cost index of 73 vs 99, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Shelby to West Yellowstone should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Shelby is $769/month compared to $1,035/month in West Yellowstone — a 26% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Shelby is more affordable at $206,000 median vs $402,600.

Median household income in Shelby is $53,357 compared to $57,167 in West Yellowstone (-6.7%). West Yellowstone does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of Shelby spend roughly 17.3% of their income on rent, less than the 21.7% in West Yellowstone.

Climate-wise, Shelby is notably warmer with an average of 41.8°F compared to 32°F in West Yellowstone. West Yellowstone receives more rainfall at 23.1" per year compared to 10.8" in Shelby.