Moving from Denver to Missoula (2026)
Missoula has a COL index of 97 vs 122 for Denver (100 = US average). You'd pay about 20% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$773/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
12297
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$2,000$1,300
per month
State tax
4.4%6.8%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,466$4,316
per month
Salary needed in Missoula to match your Denver lifestyle
Based on the 20% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Denver | Equivalent in Missoula |
|---|---|
| $40K | $31,803 |
| $50K | $39,754 |
| $60K | $47,705 |
| $75K | $59,631 |
| $80K | $63,607 |
| $100K | $79,508 |
| $120K | $95,410 |
| $150K | $119,262 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Denver vs Missoula
| Expense | Denver | Missoula |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,466 | $4,316 |
| 1BR rent | $2,000 | $1,300 |
| Groceries | $388 | $376 |
| Transport | $114 | $45 |
| Utilities | $140 | $145 |
| Internet | $65 | $68 |
| Left after essentials | $1,759 | $2,382 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Missoula cheaper than Denver?
Yes. Missoula has a cost of living index of 97 vs 122 for Denver (100 = US average). That's about 20% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Denver to Missoula?
On a $75K salary, moving from Denver to Missoula could save roughly $773/month on core expenses. That's ~$9,276/year.
What salary do I need in Missoula to match my Denver lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Denver, you'd need roughly $59,631/year in Missoula. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Missoula to DenverDenver vs Missoula — full comparisonDenver 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