Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
10% cheaper
Wilmington is 10% more affordable than Missoula. A $75,000 salary in Missoula is equivalent to $67,826 in Wilmington.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Montana salaries · Delaware salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Missoula has a housing index of 141 while Wilmington sits at 104 (national average = 100). The median home in Missoula costs $460,000 compared to $235,000 in Wilmington, a difference of $225,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Missoula versus $1,200 in Wilmington.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Missoula scores 103 while Wilmington scores 103. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Missoula (102) are lower than Wilmington (106). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Missoula is $49,234 compared to $46,520 in Wilmington. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Wilmington.
Amazon affiliate links