Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
19% cheaper
Columbus is 19% more affordable than Missoula. A $75,000 salary in Missoula is equivalent to $60,652 in Columbus.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Ohio salaries · Montana salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Columbus has a housing index of 82 while Missoula sits at 141 (national average = 100). The median home in Columbus costs $240,000 compared to $460,000 in Missoula, a difference of $220,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,200 in Columbus versus $1,400 in Missoula.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Columbus scores 99 while Missoula scores 103. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Columbus (96) are lower than Missoula (102). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Columbus is $56,590 compared to $49,234 in Missoula. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Columbus.
Amazon affiliate links