Cost of Living in Fort Benton, MT

With a cost of living index of 72, Fort Benton, MT is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 28% cheaper than the national average and 17% below the Montana state average of 89. Fort Benton is a small community of 1,470 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Fort Benton's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $745 (44% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $201,900 (34% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 3x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Fort Benton is $67,171, which is 11% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 13% 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 Fort Benton. The area sees an average annual temperature of 44.6°F, with summers averaging 65°F and winters around 26°F. Annual rainfall totals 14.8 inches spread over roughly 98 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

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.