Moving from Chicago to Missoula (2026)
Missoula has a COL index of 97 vs 107 for Chicago (100 = US average). You'd pay about 9% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$689/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
10797
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,900$1,300
per month
State tax
4.9%6.8%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,434$4,316
per month
Salary needed in Missoula to match your Chicago lifestyle
Based on the 9% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Chicago | Equivalent in Missoula |
|---|---|
| $40K | $36,262 |
| $50K | $45,327 |
| $60K | $54,393 |
| $75K | $67,991 |
| $80K | $72,523 |
| $100K | $90,654 |
| $120K | $108,785 |
| $150K | $135,981 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Chicago vs Missoula
| Expense | Chicago | Missoula |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,434 | $4,316 |
| 1BR rent | $1,900 | $1,300 |
| Groceries | $388 | $376 |
| Transport | $105 | $45 |
| Utilities | $165 | $145 |
| Internet | $65 | $68 |
| Left after essentials | $1,811 | $2,382 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Missoula cheaper than Chicago?
Yes. Missoula has a cost of living index of 97 vs 107 for Chicago (100 = US average). That's about 9% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Chicago to Missoula?
On a $75K salary, moving from Chicago to Missoula could save roughly $689/month on core expenses. That's ~$8,268/year.
What salary do I need in Missoula to match my Chicago lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Chicago, you'd need roughly $67,991/year in Missoula. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Missoula to ChicagoChicago vs Missoula — full comparisonChicago 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