Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
19% cheaper
Lexington is 19% more affordable than Missoula. A $75,000 salary in Missoula is equivalent to $60,652 in Lexington.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Kentucky salaries · Montana salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Lexington has a housing index of 82 while Missoula sits at 141 (national average = 100). The median home in Lexington costs $245,000 compared to $460,000 in Missoula, a difference of $215,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,200 in Lexington versus $1,400 in Missoula.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Lexington scores 96 while Missoula scores 103. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Lexington (94) are lower than Missoula (102). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Lexington is $55,648 compared to $49,234 in Missoula. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Lexington.
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