Cost of Living in Lewistown, MT

With a cost of living index of 73, Lewistown, MT is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 27% cheaper than the national average and 16% below the Montana state average of 89. Lewistown is a smaller community of 6,028 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Lewistown's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $896 (32% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $159,500 (48% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 3.6x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in Lewistown is $44,195, which is 41% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 24% 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 Lewistown. The area sees an average annual temperature of 43.1°F, with summers averaging 63°F and winters around 24°F. Annual rainfall totals 17.2 inches spread over roughly 116 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.