Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
27% cheaper
Little Rock is 27% more affordable than Missoula. A $75,000 salary in Missoula is equivalent to $54,783 in Little Rock.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Arkansas salaries · Montana salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Little Rock has a housing index of 62 while Missoula sits at 141 (national average = 100). The median home in Little Rock costs $170,000 compared to $460,000 in Missoula, a difference of $290,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $950 in Little Rock versus $1,400 in Missoula.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Little Rock scores 94 while Missoula scores 103.
Healthcare costs in Little Rock (90) are lower than Missoula (102).
Median household income in Little Rock is $47,638 compared to $49,234 in Missoula. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Little Rock.
Amazon affiliate links