Cost of Living in Westby, MT

With a cost of living index of 55, Westby, MT is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 45% cheaper than the national average and 33% below the Montana state average of 89. Westby is a small community of 253 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Westby's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $575 (56% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $61,900 (80% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.5x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Westby is $24,583, which is 67% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 28% of household income on rent. This is near the 30% threshold that financial experts generally consider the upper limit of affordability. 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 Westby. The area sees an average annual temperature of 41.7°F, with summers averaging 68°F and winters around 15°F. Annual rainfall totals 15.1 inches spread over roughly 100 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.