Moving from Salem to Missoula (2026)
Missoula has a COL index of 97 vs 97 for Salem (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 0% more for the same lifestyle.
Pay ~$156 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
9797
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,450$1,300
per month
State tax
9.9%6.8%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,122$4,316
per month
Salary needed in Missoula to match your Salem lifestyle
Based on the 0% cost of living increase between the two cities.
| Your salary in Salem | Equivalent in Missoula |
|---|---|
| $40K | $40,000 |
| $50K | $50,000 |
| $60K | $60,000 |
| $75K | $75,000 |
| $80K | $80,000 |
| $100K | $100,000 |
| $120K | $120,000 |
| $150K | $150,000 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Salem vs Missoula
| Expense | Salem | Missoula |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,122 | $4,316 |
| 1BR rent | $1,450 | $1,300 |
| Groceries | $380 | $376 |
| Transport | $72 | $45 |
| Utilities | $125 | $145 |
| Internet | $63 | $68 |
| Left after essentials | $2,032 | $2,382 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Missoula cheaper than Salem?
No. Missoula has a cost of living index of 97 vs 97 for Salem (100 = US average). That's about 0% more expensive.
How much will I save moving from Salem to Missoula?
On a $75K salary, moving from Salem to Missoula could save roughly $156/month on core expenses. That's ~$1,872/year.
What salary do I need in Missoula to match my Salem lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Salem, you'd need roughly $75,000/year in Missoula. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Missoula to SalemSalem vs Missoula — full comparisonSalem 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