Moving from Missoula to Wichita (2026)
Wichita has a COL index of 82 vs 97 for Missoula (100 = US average). You'd pay about 15% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$329/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
9782
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,300$1,000
per month
State tax
6.8%5.7%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,316$4,384
per month
Salary needed in Wichita to match your Missoula lifestyle
Based on the 15% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Missoula | Equivalent in Wichita |
|---|---|
| $40K | $33,814 |
| $50K | $42,268 |
| $60K | $50,722 |
| $75K | $63,402 |
| $80K | $67,629 |
| $100K | $84,536 |
| $120K | $101,443 |
| $150K | $126,804 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Missoula vs Wichita
| Expense | Missoula | Wichita |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,316 | $4,384 |
| 1BR rent | $1,300 | $1,000 |
| Groceries | $376 | $350 |
| Transport | $45 | $42 |
| Utilities | $145 | $155 |
| Internet | $68 | $58 |
| Left after essentials | $2,382 | $2,779 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Wichita cheaper than Missoula?
Yes. Wichita has a cost of living index of 82 vs 97 for Missoula (100 = US average). That's about 15% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Missoula to Wichita?
On a $75K salary, moving from Missoula to Wichita could save roughly $329/month on core expenses. That's ~$3,948/year.
What salary do I need in Wichita to match my Missoula lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Missoula, you'd need roughly $63,402/year in Wichita. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Wichita to MissoulaMissoula vs Wichita — full comparisonMissoula cost of livingWichita 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