Free comparison
Moving from Washington to Montana
A side-by-side comparison drawn from BLS, BEA, Census, FBI, and NOAA. Tech (Amazon, MS), no income tax, rainy West side. vs. Big sky, no sales tax, rapidly gentrifying small towns.
Washington
Capital: Olympia
Median household income $90,325 · winter low 35°F · 152 sunny days
Tech (Amazon, MS), no income tax, rainy West side.
Montana
Capital: Helena
Median household income $67,631 · winter low 14°F · 205 sunny days
Big sky, no sales tax, rapidly gentrifying small towns.
Montana has an overall price level 94.6 (US avg = 100). Housing dominates the difference.
Sources: NOAA Climate Normals (live) state-level
Summer high 83°F · Winter low 14°F · 205 sunny days/yr.
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See the full comparisonFrequently asked
Is it cheaper to live in Montana than Washington?
Montana's overall price level is roughly 95 (US avg = 100), vs about 105.8 for Washington — based on BEA Regional Price Parities. Housing is the dominant driver of the difference. Run a comparison for the full, current breakdown.
What's the income tax difference?
Washington tops out at 0% income tax. Montana tops out at 5.65%.
How long do I have to register my vehicle in Montana?
Most Montana residents must register a vehicle within 30-60 days of moving. Check the piomover report for state-specific deadlines.