Cost of Living in Plentywood, MT

With a cost of living index of 68, Plentywood, MT is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 32% cheaper than the national average and 21% below the Montana state average of 89. Plentywood is a small community of 1,677 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Plentywood's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $755 (43% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $148,800 (51% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.4x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Plentywood is $62,163, which is 17% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 15% 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 Plentywood. The area sees an average annual temperature of 41.6°F, with summers averaging 66°F and winters around 16°F. Annual rainfall totals 13.7 inches spread over roughly 92 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.