Cost of Living in Gardiner, MT

With a cost of living index of 107, Gardiner, MT is somewhat more expensive than average. Living here is 7% more expensive than the national average and 18% above the Montana state average of 89. Gardiner is a small community of 791 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Gardiner's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $795 (40% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $609,200 (100% above the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 10.5x the median household income — a challenging ratio that puts homeownership out of reach for many residents.

The median household income in Gardiner is $57,835, which is 23% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 16% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Gardiner. The area sees an average annual temperature of 32°F, with summers averaging 52°F and winters around 13°F. Annual rainfall totals 23.1 inches spread over roughly 160 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.