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Shelby, MT vs Wheatland, MT

73
Shelby
Montana
VS
-40.5%
122
Wheatland
Montana

The cost of living difference between Shelby, MT and Wheatland, MT is dramatic. Shelby is 40.5% cheaper than Wheatland, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Shelby has a cost index of 73 while Wheatland sits at 122, 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 Shelby are $206,000 compared to $581,100 in Wheatland, a 65% gap.

Median household income in Shelby is $53,357 compared to $108,580 in Wheatland (-50.9%). While Wheatland is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (41.8°F vs 43°F). Wheatland receives more rainfall at 13.4" per year compared to 10.8" in Shelby.

Income & Cost

Cost of Living Index
Shelby
73
40% cheaper
Wheatland
122
Median Household Income
Shelby
$53,357
Wheatland
$108,580
51% higher

Housing

Median Rent
Shelby
$769
Wheatland
Median Home Value
Shelby
$206,000
65% cheaper
Wheatland
$581,100
Population
Shelby
3,129
Wheatland
1,185

Salary Equivalency Calculator

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Everyday Prices

BLS Average Prices by metro area

Gasoline (regular)
Shelby
Wheatland $2.96
US $3.07
🥚
Eggs (grade A, large)
Shelby
Wheatland $2.41
US $2.50
🥛
Milk (whole)
Shelby
Wheatland $3.88
US $4.03
🍞
Bread (white)
Shelby
Wheatland $1.79
US $1.85
🍗
Chicken breast
Shelby
Wheatland $4.00
US $4.14
Electricity
Shelby
Wheatland $0.14
US $0.19

Climate

NOAA 30-year normals (1991-2020)

Avg Temp
Shelby 41.8°F
Wheatland 43°F
Summer High
Shelby 80°F
Wheatland 85°F
Winter Low
Shelby 11°F
Wheatland 10°F
Rainfall
Shelby 10.8"
Wheatland 13.4"
Rainy Days
Shelby 77d
Wheatland 107d