Cost of Living in East Missoula, MT

With a cost of living index of 91, East Missoula, MT is slightly more affordable than average. Living here is 9% cheaper than the national average and in line with the Montana state average. East Missoula is a small community of 2,072 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in East Missoula's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,039 (21% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $323,900 (6% above the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 4.9x the median household income — a stretch for many buyers, though not uncommon in today's market.

The median household income in East Missoula is $65,541, which is 13% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 19% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to East Missoula. The area sees an average annual temperature of 45.2°F, with summers averaging 65°F and winters around 26°F. Annual rainfall totals 14.1 inches spread over roughly 124 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

Everyday prices in the Missoula, MT (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area are generally below the national average. Out of 6 common items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6 are priced lower than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.