Moving from Missoula to Phoenix (2026)

Phoenix has a COL index of 100 vs 97 for Missoula (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 3% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$69 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
97 โ†’ 100
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,300 โ†’ $1,500
per month
State tax
6.8% โ†’ 2.5%
income tax
COL difference
97 โ†’ 100
3% more expensive

Salary needed in Phoenix to match your Missoula lifestyle

Based on the 3% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in MissoulaEquivalent in Phoenix
$40K$41,237
$50K$51,546
$60K$61,856
$75K$77,320
$80K$82,474
$100K$103,093
$120K$123,711
$150K$154,639

๐Ÿ’ต Household income (before tax)

$75K
$
$30K$300K
Pay ~$269/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Missoula vs Phoenix

ExpenseMissoulaPhoenix
Monthly take-home$4,316$4,584
1BR rent$1,300$1,500
Groceries$376$369
Transport$45$64
Utilities$145$210
Internet$68$60
Left after essentials$2,382$2,381

Frequently asked questions

Is Phoenix cheaper than Missoula?

No. Phoenix has a cost of living index of 100 vs 97 for Missoula (100 = US average). That's about 3% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Missoula to Phoenix?

On a $75K salary, moving from Missoula to Phoenix saves roughly $69/month on core expenses. That's ~$828/year.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Missoula, you'd need roughly $77,320/year in Phoenix. This is based on the overall COL index difference.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates. Zillow ยท BLS ยท Numbeo ยท For general guidance only