Moving from Missoula to Erie (2026)

Erie has a COL index of 84 vs 97 for Missoula (100 = US average). You'd pay about 13% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$179/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
9784
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,300$1,100
per month
State tax
6.8%3.1%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,316$4,547
per month

Salary needed in Erie to match your Missoula lifestyle

Based on the 13% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in MissoulaEquivalent in Erie
$40K$34,639
$50K$43,299
$60K$51,959
$75K$64,948
$80K$69,278
$100K$86,598
$120K$103,918
$150K$129,897

Monthly budget at $75K — Missoula vs Erie

ExpenseMissoulaErie
Monthly take-home$4,316$4,547
1BR rent$1,300$1,100
Groceries$376$365
Transport$45$60
Utilities$145$168
Internet$68$62
Left after essentials$2,382$2,792

Frequently asked questions

Is Erie cheaper than Missoula?

Yes. Erie has a cost of living index of 84 vs 97 for Missoula (100 = US average). That's about 13% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Missoula to Erie?

On a $75K salary, moving from Missoula to Erie could save roughly $179/month on core expenses. That's ~$2,148/year.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Missoula, you'd need roughly $64,948/year in Erie. 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