Moving from Atlanta to Missoula (2026)
Missoula has a COL index of 97 vs 110 for Atlanta (100 = US average). You'd pay about 12% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$662/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
11097
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,900$1,300
per month
State tax
5.5%6.8%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,397$4,316
per month
Salary needed in Missoula to match your Atlanta lifestyle
Based on the 12% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Atlanta | Equivalent in Missoula |
|---|---|
| $40K | $35,273 |
| $50K | $44,091 |
| $60K | $52,909 |
| $75K | $66,136 |
| $80K | $70,545 |
| $100K | $88,182 |
| $120K | $105,818 |
| $150K | $132,273 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Atlanta vs Missoula
| Expense | Atlanta | Missoula |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,397 | $4,316 |
| 1BR rent | $1,900 | $1,300 |
| Groceries | $376 | $376 |
| Transport | $95 | $45 |
| Utilities | $165 | $145 |
| Internet | $60 | $68 |
| Left after essentials | $1,801 | $2,382 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Missoula cheaper than Atlanta?
Yes. Missoula has a cost of living index of 97 vs 110 for Atlanta (100 = US average). That's about 12% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Atlanta to Missoula?
On a $75K salary, moving from Atlanta to Missoula could save roughly $662/month on core expenses. That's ~$7,944/year.
What salary do I need in Missoula to match my Atlanta lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Atlanta, you'd need roughly $66,136/year in Missoula. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Missoula to AtlantaAtlanta vs Missoula — full comparisonAtlanta cost of livingMissoula cost of living
Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only