Moving from Cleveland to Missoula (2026)

Missoula has a COL index of 97 vs 85 for Cleveland (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 14% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$15 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
8597
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,250$1,300
per month
State tax
3.5%6.8%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,522$4,316
per month

Salary needed in Missoula to match your Cleveland lifestyle

Based on the 14% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in ClevelandEquivalent in Missoula
$40K$45,647
$50K$57,059
$60K$68,471
$75K$85,588
$80K$91,294
$100K$114,118
$120K$136,941
$150K$171,176

Monthly budget at $75K — Cleveland vs Missoula

ExpenseClevelandMissoula
Monthly take-home$4,522$4,316
1BR rent$1,250$1,300
Groceries$369$376
Transport$72$45
Utilities$168$145
Internet$60$68
Left after essentials$2,603$2,382

Frequently asked questions

Is Missoula cheaper than Cleveland?

No. Missoula has a cost of living index of 97 vs 85 for Cleveland (100 = US average). That's about 14% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Cleveland to Missoula?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Missoula run about $15/month more than Cleveland. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Missoula to match my Cleveland lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Cleveland, you'd need roughly $85,588/year in Missoula. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.

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