Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
10% cheaper
Dallas is 10% more affordable than Missoula. A $75,000 salary in Missoula is equivalent to $67,174 in Dallas.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Texas salaries · Montana salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Dallas has a housing index of 104 while Missoula sits at 141 (national average = 100). The median home in Dallas costs $310,000 compared to $460,000 in Missoula, a difference of $150,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,500 in Dallas versus $1,400 in Missoula.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Dallas scores 97 while Missoula scores 103. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Dallas (100) are lower than Missoula (102). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Dallas is $54,747 compared to $49,234 in Missoula. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Dallas.
Amazon affiliate links