Cost of Living in Miles City, MT

With a cost of living index of 76, Miles City, MT is a very affordable place to live. Living here is 24% cheaper than the national average and 13% below the Montana state average of 89. Miles City is a smaller community of 8,412 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Miles City's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $932 (29% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $182,700 (40% 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 Miles City is $60,732, which is 19% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 18% 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 Miles City. The area sees an average annual temperature of 46.2°F, with summers averaging 71°F and winters around 22°F. Annual rainfall totals 12.9 inches spread over roughly 87 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.