Explore Great Falls, MT
Cost of Living in Great Falls, MT (2026) – Salary Needed & Budget Calculator
Thinking about moving to Great Falls? Use this 2026 Great Falls cost of living calculator to estimate rent, groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare and taxes.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
Your salary provides a comfortable buffer for life in Great Falls. You can save and enjoy leisure activities.
| Category | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent (Single) | $1,100.00 |
| Utilities | $260.00 |
| Groceries | $450.00 |
| Transportation (Public) | $350.00 |
| Healthcare | $400.00 |
| Miscellaneous (10.0%) | $181.00 |
| Total Estimated Costs | $2,741.00 |
Tax & Benefits Breakdown
Quality of Life & Environment
Local Climate
Enjoy 258 days of sunshine per year. Summer highs avg 82°F, while winter lows dip to -9°F.
Safety & Crime Rate
Great Falls ranks as a moderate safety zone compared to national averages for similar-sized metros.
Environmental Index
Air quality and environmental health factors in Montana remain a key priority for 2026.
Planning your move to or from Great Falls?
Great Falls, MT: The Rugged Crossroads (2026 Relocation Guide)
Great Falls enters 2026 as the commercial and industrial anchor of the Northern Plains. Known as the 'Electric City' and anchored by the Malmstrom Air Force Base and the Missouri River, it is a city of historic brick charm, deep military roots, and high-utility prairie value. It is the choice for military families and outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize space and river access over metropolitan pulse.
📊 Real Monthly Cost: The Relocation Analyst's Estimate
High-plains living carries a champion's budget. A single professional needs $2,950 per month, while a family of four spends $5,800. Montana’s 6.75% tax and Great Falls' extreme low barrier for housing create massive monthly liquidity. Daily living expenses sit 12% below the national average, making it one of the most sustainable financial targets in the Rockies. You are paying for the safety.
🏠 Housing Reality: Historic Brick and Military Infill
The 2026 housing market is historically accessible compared to the Bozemans of the state. Median home prices sit near $265,000, buy legacy brick bungalows in the historic core or stable modern suburban inventory on the southern hills. Rental inventory is robustly geared toward the professional workforce, with clean 2-bedroom units averaging $1,450. In Great Falls, homeownership is a low-barrier reality for most technical and energy-sector workers.
⚠️ Hidden Trade-Offs: The Windy Friction
The primary trade-off is environmental; punishment-level winter winds and sub-zero temperature cycles are permanent features of daily life. Additionally, the city is geographically isolated and has created a slow-growth tech sector compared to the western state hubs. If you require a high-intensity urban pulse or 'artsy' souls, Great Falls will feel too quiet and industrial.
🏆 Final Relocation Verdict
Move here if: You are a military professional, a manufacturing specialist, or a family seeking the best space-to-cost ratio in the Rockies.
Avoid this city if: You are sensitive to extreme cold, require a high-end luxury retail pulse, or crave a high-grit urban soul.
Salary Needed to Live Comfortably
In our estimation, to live a comfortable life in Great Falls with a buffer for savings and hobbies, you would need a gross annual salary of approximately:
This assumes you want to save at least $1,000 per month after all expenses and taxes.
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Calculator Disclaimer
The results provided by this calculator are estimates based on publicly available data and modeling assumptions. Actual living costs, taxes, and relocation expenses may vary depending on personal circumstances, market conditions, and local regulations. This tool is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, tax, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making financial or relocation decisions.