Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
29% cheaper
Jackson is 29% more affordable than Missoula. A $75,000 salary in Missoula is equivalent to $53,478 in Jackson.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Mississippi salaries · Montana salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Jackson has a housing index of 56 while Missoula sits at 141 (national average = 100). The median home in Jackson costs $125,000 compared to $460,000 in Missoula, a difference of $335,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $900 in Jackson versus $1,400 in Missoula.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Jackson scores 95 while Missoula scores 103. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Jackson (88) are lower than Missoula (102).
Median household income in Jackson is $36,528 compared to $49,234 in Missoula. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Jackson.
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