Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
35% cheaper
Missoula is 35% more affordable than Irvine. A $75,000 salary in Irvine is equivalent to $48,455 in Missoula.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: California salaries · Montana salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Irvine has a housing index of 294 while Missoula sits at 141 (national average = 100). The median home in Irvine costs $1,050,000 compared to $460,000 in Missoula, a difference of $590,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $3,000 in Irvine versus $1,400 in Missoula.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Irvine scores 108 while Missoula scores 103.
Healthcare costs in Irvine (109) are higher than Missoula (102).
Median household income in Irvine is $108,038 compared to $49,234 in Missoula. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Missoula.
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