Cost of Living in Whitewater, MT

With a cost of living index of 47, Whitewater, MT is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 53% cheaper than the national average and 41% below the Montana state average of 89. Whitewater is a small community of 100 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Whitewater's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $267 (80% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $79,000 (74% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.2x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Whitewater is $35,417, which is 53% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 9% 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 Whitewater. The area sees an average annual temperature of 43°F, with summers averaging 68°F and winters around 17°F. Annual rainfall totals 11.8 inches spread over roughly 67 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.