Idaho vs Montana: Which Is Better to Live In?
Idaho ranks #4 of 50 overall and Montana #7 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 95.5 vs 94.6); Idaho collects a similar share of income in taxes and has a 48% lower violent crime rate. Idaho scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
- Property crime rate is 58% lower in Idaho (605 vs. 1,449 in Montana).
- Violent crime rate is 48% lower in Idaho (217 vs. 419 in Montana).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 30% lower in Idaho ($10,887 vs. $15,476 in Montana).
| Measure | IdahoID | MontanaMT | GapID−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +3.4 pts | 78.4#4 of 50 · A+ | 75.0#7 of 50 · A | +3.4 pts | — | ID |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.9 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 95.5#23 of 50 | 94.6#22 of 50 | +0.9 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$9,261 · US -$11,758 | -$11,891#26 of 50 | -$21,152#33 of 50 | +$9,261 | -$11,758 | ID |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$6,998 (+1%) · US $368,697 | $478,744#39 of 50 | $471,746#38 of 50 | +$6,998+1% | $368,697 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.33 pts · US 8.74% | 7.54%#10 of 50 | 7.87%#13 of 50 | -0.33 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -202 (-48%) · US 328 | 217#11 of 50 | 419#42 of 50 | -202-48% | 328 | ID |
| Median household incomeGap +$5,826 (+8%) · US $80,903 | $81,166#21 of 50 | $75,340#35 of 50 | +$5,826+8% | $80,903 | ID |
| High school graduation rateGap -5.9 pts · US 85.62% | 79.9%#47 of 50 | 85.8%#30 of 50 | -5.9 pts | 85.62% | MT |
| Life expectancyGap +1.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.4#12 of 50 | 77.3#25 of 50 | +1.1 yrs | 76.9 | ID |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +2,715 · US -33 | +5,811#12 of 50 | +3,096#18 of 50 | +2,715 | -33 | ID |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Idaho or Montana better to live in?
Idaho scores higher overall: 78.4 to 75 out of 100, #4 of 50 against #7. Idaho leads 6 of 11 categories, Montana leads 3, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | IdahoID | MontanaMT | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -0.6 | 15% | 50.9#19 · B | 51.5#17 · B+ | -0.6 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap +25.7 | 12% | 86.6#5 · A+ | 60.9#36 · C | +25.7 pts | ID |
| Health12% of scoregap +3 | 12% | 61.9#16 · B+ | 58.9#22 · B | +3 pts | ID |
| Education12% of scoregap -11.9 | 12% | 55.2#32 · C+ | 67.1#12 · B+ | -11.9 pts | MT |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +3.2 | 10% | 72.1#24 · B | 68.9#26 · B | +3.2 pts | ID |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +11.5 | 8% | 71.0#9 · A | 59.5#24 · B | +11.5 pts | ID |
| Growth7% of scoregap +19 | 7% | 72.6#1 · A+ | 53.6#6 · A | +19 pts | ID |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -2.9 | 7% | 55.8#10 · A | 58.7#7 · A | -2.9 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap -22.3 | 7% | 39.6#15 · B+ | 61.9#1 · A+ | -22.3 pts | MT |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -21.5 | 6% | 50.2#6 · A | 71.7#3 · A+ | -21.5 pts | MT |
| Environment4% of scoregap +7.1 | 4% | 70.0#4 · A+ | 62.9#6 · A | +7.1 pts | ID |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Idaho cheaper than Montana?
Idaho and Montana cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 95.5 vs 94.6 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $9,261 more a year in Idaho after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | IdahoID | MontanaMT | GapID−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.9 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 95.5#23 of 50 | 94.6#22 of 50 | +0.9 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.3 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96.3#21 of 50 | 96#14 of 50 | +0.3 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.16¢ (-9%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 11.82¢/kWh#2 of 50 | 12.98¢/kWh#6 of 50 | -1.16¢-9% | 17.84¢/kWh | ID |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$1.30 (-14%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $7.69/Mcf#1 of 50 | $8.99/Mcf#2 of 50 | -$1.30-14% | $15.83/Mcf | ID |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.02 (+1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.35/gal#39 of 50 | $3.33/gal#35 of 50 | +$0.02+1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$4,589 (-30%) · US $15,633 | $10,887#7 of 50 | $15,476#27 of 50 | -$4,589-30% | $15,633 | ID |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | IdahoID | MontanaMT | GapID−MT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$194 | +$26,637costs $48,363 | +$26,443costs $48,557 | +$194 | Even |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$119 | +$17,119costs $57,881 | +$17,000costs $58,000 | +$119 | Even |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$9,261 | -$11,891costs $86,891 | -$21,152costs $96,152 | +$9,261 | ID |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$132 | +$30,814costs $44,187 | +$30,682costs $44,318 | +$132 | Even |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | IdahoID | MontanaMT | GapID−MT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$622 | $31,730 | $32,352 | -$622 | Even |
| ChildcareGap -$9,178 | $21,774 | $30,952 | -$9,178 | ID |
| UtilitiesGap +$43 | $4,584 | $4,541 | +$43 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$34 | $10,846 | $10,812 | +$34 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$63 | $10,529 | $10,466 | +$63 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$399 | $7,428 | $7,029 | +$399 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Idaho or Montana?
Idaho and Montana collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 7.54% vs 7.87%. Idaho has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Montana has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | IdahoID | MontanaMT | GapID−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.33 pts · US 8.74% | 7.54%#10 of 50 | 7.87%#13 of 50 | -0.33 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.2 pts · US 5.46% | 5.7%#27 of 50 | 5.9%#30 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.23 pts · US 1.02% | 0.56%#10 of 50 | 0.79%#21 of 50 | -0.23 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +6.03 pts · US 6.66% | 6.03%#14 of 50 | 0%#2 of 50 | +6.03 pts | 6.66% | MT |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in Idaho or Montana?
Typical home values are about the same: $478,744 in Idaho and $471,746 in Montana. Buying the typical home takes about $118,073 of income in Idaho and $119,850 in Montana; the median household earns $81,166 and $75,340.
| Measure | IdahoID | MontanaMT | GapID−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$6,998 (+1%) · US $368,697 | $478,744#39 of 50 | $471,746#38 of 50 | +$6,998+1% | $368,697 | Even |
| Home value change, one yearGap 0 pts · US +1.2% | +2%#27 of 50 | +2%#28 of 50 | 0 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$493 (+35%) · US $1,948 | $1,919#33 of 50 | $1,426#10 of 50 | +$493+35% | $1,948 | MT |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$1,777 (-1%) · US $100,006 | $118,073#37 of 50 | $119,850#38 of 50 | -$1,777-1% | $100,006 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.4x (-6%) · US 4.6x | 5.9x#43 of 50 | 6.3x#47 of 50 | -0.4x-6% | 4.6x | ID |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| ID | MT | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,463 | $2,427 |
| Income needed vs. median | +46% | +59% |
| Five-year change | +6.2% | +25% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | Boise City | Billings |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Idaho or Montana?
Idaho pays more: median household income $81,166 vs $75,340, with unemployment at 3.7% in Idaho and 3.3% in Montana. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Idaho's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 16 after adjusting for local costs and Montana's in 0.
| Measure | IdahoID | MontanaMT | GapID−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$5,826 (+8%) · US $80,903 | $81,166#21 of 50 | $75,340#35 of 50 | +$5,826+8% | $80,903 | ID |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.4 pts · US 3.95% | 3.7%#18 of 50 | 3.3%#9 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$3,123 (-6%) · US $64,333 | $50,766#46 of 50 | $53,889#42 of 50 | -$3,123-6% | $64,333 | MT |
| Real GDP growthGap +1 pts · US +1.91% | +3%#8 of 50 | +2%#21 of 50 | +1 pts | +1.91% | ID |
| Population growthGap +0.81 pts · US +0.51% | +1.44%#2 of 50 | +0.63%#16 of 50 | +0.81 pts | +0.51% | ID |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | ID | MT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $135,305$123,128 in Boise City | $116,186$104,567 in Billings | ID |
| Lawyers | $145,444$132,354 in Boise City | $128,043$115,239 in Billings | ID |
| Civil Engineers | $97,456$88,685 in Boise City | $84,653$76,188 in Billings | ID |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $211,918$192,845 in Boise City | $199,317$179,385 in Billings | ID |
| General & Operations Managers | $100,669$91,609 in Boise City | $90,166$81,149 in Billings | ID |
| Registered Nurses | $83,721$76,186 in Boise City | $74,941$67,447 in Billings | ID |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $100,132$91,120 in Boise City | $92,892$83,603 in Billings | ID |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $57,605$52,421 in Boise City | $50,682$45,614 in Billings | ID |
| Electricians | $62,723$57,078 in Boise City | $57,082$51,374 in Billings | ID |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $74,170$67,495 in Boise City | $68,716$61,844 in Billings | ID |
| Mental Health Counselors | $53,174$48,388 in Boise City | $47,868$43,081 in Billings | ID |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $56,668$51,568 in Boise City | $51,552$46,397 in Billings | ID |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $63,548$57,829 in Boise City | $58,723$52,851 in Billings | ID |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $54,186$49,309 in Boise City | $49,906$44,915 in Billings | ID |
| Construction Laborers | $42,880$39,021 in Boise City | $40,154$36,139 in Billings | ID |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $65,962$60,025 in Boise City | $63,372$57,035 in Billings | ID |
| Accountants & Auditors | $77,057$70,122 in Boise City | $74,913$67,422 in Billings | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $45,982$41,844 in Boise City | $44,668$40,201 in Billings | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $61,521$55,984 in Boise City | $60,323$54,291 in Billings | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $32,795$29,843 in Boise City | $31,814$28,633 in Billings | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Idaho safer than Montana?
Idaho is safer: 217 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 419 in Montana (FBI). Property crime runs 605 and 1,449 per 100,000.
| Measure | IdahoID | MontanaMT | GapID−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -202 (-48%) · US 328 | 217#11 of 50 | 419#42 of 50 | -202-48% | 328 | ID |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -844 (-58%) · US 1,535 | 605#1 of 50 | 1,449#26 of 50 | -844-58% | 1,535 | ID |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Moscow, ID37 violent per 100K
- Whitefish, MT176 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Idaho or Montana?
Montana scores higher for education (#12 of 50 vs #32), with high school graduation rates of 79.9% and 85.8%. Idaho scores higher for health (#16 vs #22); life expectancy is 78.4 years in Idaho and 77.3 in Montana.
| Measure | IdahoID | MontanaMT | GapID−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 273 | 278#14 of 50 | 279#10 of 50 | -1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +0 · US 257 | 261#9 of 50 | 261#11 of 50 | +0 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -5.9 pts · US 85.62% | 79.9%#47 of 50 | 85.8%#30 of 50 | -5.9 pts | 85.62% | MT |
| Life expectancyGap +1.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.4#12 of 50 | 77.3#25 of 50 | +1.1 yrs | 76.9 | ID |
| Adults with obesityGap +1.7 pts · US 34.03% | 32.7%#18 of 50 | 31%#10 of 50 | +1.7 pts | 34.03% | MT |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.4 pts · US 7.6% | 9.2%#38 of 50 | 8.8%#36 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +7 pts (+26%) · US 38.8 | 34#6 of 50 | 27#3 of 50 | +7 pts+26% | 38.8 | MT |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Coeur d'Alene, IDeducation score 92
- Whitefish, MTeducation score 92
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Idaho #32, Montana #12. Health: Idaho #16, Montana #22.
Are more people moving from Idaho to Montana, or from Montana to Idaho?
1,126 households moved from Idaho to Montana and 1,078 moved from Montana to Idaho in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 48 households for Montana. Movers to Montana reported an average income of $68,888; movers to Idaho reported $59,536. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,318 people (±693) moving from Idaho to Montana and 2,214 (±1,018) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | IdahoID | MontanaMT | GapID−MT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +14,441 (+68%) | 35,831#34 of 50 | 21,390#41 of 50 | +14,441+68% | ID |
| Households moving outIRSGap +11,726 (+64%) | 30,020#14 of 50 | 18,294#9 of 50 | +11,726+64% | MT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +2,715 | +5,811#12 of 50 | +3,096#18 of 50 | +2,715 | ID |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.2 | +2.9#5 of 50 | +2.7#6 of 50 | +0.2 | Even |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$2,138 (+3%) | $81,248#19 of 50 | $79,110#25 of 50 | +$2,138+3% | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$1,103 (-2%) | $64,061#43 of 50 | $65,164#40 of 50 | -$1,103-2% | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.3 | +9.9#2 of 50 | +5.6#6 of 50 | +4.3 | ID |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Idaho or Montana?
Idaho is the better fit for retirees and small business; 4 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | IdahoID | MontanaMT | GapID−MT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -3 places | #7score 80.6 | #10score 79.4 | -3 places | Even |
| RetireesGap -8 places | #2score 84.8 | #10score 76.8 | -8 places | ID |
| Remote WorkersGap -1 places | #3score 80.2 | #4score 76.6 | -1 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -3 places | #2score 77.2 | #5score 70.2 | -3 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap -8 places | #2score 80.2 | #10score 71 | -8 places | ID |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +2 places | #4score 78.6 | #2score 81.7 | +2 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#7 vs #10)
- RetireesIdaho (#2 vs #10)
- Remote WorkersEven (#3 vs #4)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#2 vs #5)
- Small BusinessIdaho (#2 vs #10)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#4 vs #2)
Which cities stand out in Idaho and Montana?
Idaho has 20 tracked cities and Montana has 20; the largest are Boise and Billings. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | IdahoID | MontanaMT |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Boise237,242 people | Billings119,434 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Meridianscore 64.7 | Bozemanscore 64.2 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Moscow37 violent per 100K | Whitefish176 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Pocatellocost index 88.9 | Buttecost index 91.6 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Boisewalkability 13.6 of 20 | Bozemanwalkability 15.3 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Idaho Fallscounty median AQI 22 | Bozemancounty median AQI 11 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Coeur d'Alene92% graduation rate | Whitefish92% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Eaglemedian income $122,894 | Belgrademedian income $97,328 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Star+14.8% growth | Sidney+2.7% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Idaho and Montana compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Idaho carries AA+ credit rating and Montana AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | IdahoID | MontanaMT | GapID−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +17 pts · US 29.34% | 70%#5 of 50 | 53%#9 of 50 | +17 pts | 29.34% | ID |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -28.1 (-56%) · US 29.6 | 21.7#18 of 50 | 49.8#44 of 50 | -28.1-56% | 29.6 | ID |
| Public land shareGap +32.6 pts · US 17.16% | 62.5%#3 of 50 | 29.9%#11 of 50 | +32.6 pts | 17.16% | ID |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.7 min · US 25.2 min | 22.2 min#9 of 50 | 19.5 min#3 of 50 | +2.7 min | 25.2 min | MT |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 0.5%#39 of 50 | 0.8%#30 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +1 pts · US 12.28% | 12.7%#23 of 50 | 11.7%#30 of 50 | +1 pts | 12.28% | ID |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.3 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#25 of 50 | 91.5%#39 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 92.67% | ID |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | IdahoID | MontanaMT | GapID−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 95#18 of 50 | 95#20 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +4.5 pts · US 12.39% | 14.8%#9 of 50 | 10.3%#24 of 50 | +4.5 pts | 12.39% | ID |
| Pension funded ratioGap +18 pts · US 74.3% | 91%#6 of 50 | 73%#27 of 50 | +18 pts | 74.3% | ID |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,170 (-43%) · US $3,506 | $1,580#4 of 50 | $2,750#23 of 50 | -$1,170-43% | $3,506 | ID |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +2.3 pts · US +4.66% | +7.5%#8 of 50 | +5.2%#21 of 50 | +2.3 pts | +4.66% | ID |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Idaho AA+, Montana AA+), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Idaho vs Montana: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Idaho is ahead on 22 of 51, Montana on 7, and 22 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | IdahoID | MontanaMT | GapID−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +885,039 (+77%) · US 6.8 million | 2 million#37 of 50 | 1.1 million#43 of 50 | +885,039+77% | 6.8 million | ID |
| Median household incomeGap +$5,826 (+8%) · US $80,903 | $81,166#21 of 50 | $75,340#35 of 50 | +$5,826+8% | $80,903 | ID |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.4 pts · US 3.95% | 3.7%#18 of 50 | 3.3%#9 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.81 pts · US +0.51% | +1.44%#2 of 50 | +0.63%#16 of 50 | +0.81 pts | +0.51% | ID |
| GDP per capitaGap -$3,123 (-6%) · US $64,333 | $50,766#46 of 50 | $53,889#42 of 50 | -$3,123-6% | $64,333 | MT |
| Real GDP growthGap +1 pts · US +1.91% | +3%#8 of 50 | +2%#21 of 50 | +1 pts | +1.91% | ID |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -202 (-48%) · US 328 | 217#11 of 50 | 419#42 of 50 | -202-48% | 328 | ID |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -844 (-58%) · US 1,535 | 605#1 of 50 | 1,449#26 of 50 | -844-58% | 1,535 | ID |
| High school graduation rateGap -5.9 pts · US 85.62% | 79.9%#47 of 50 | 85.8%#30 of 50 | -5.9 pts | 85.62% | MT |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -0 · US 237 | 238#21 of 50 | 239#20 of 50 | -0 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 273 | 278#14 of 50 | 279#10 of 50 | -1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 214 | 216#18 of 50 | 217#12 of 50 | -2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +0 · US 257 | 261#9 of 50 | 261#11 of 50 | +0 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.4#12 of 50 | 77.3#25 of 50 | +1.1 yrs | 76.9 | ID |
| Adults with obesityGap +1.7 pts · US 34.03% | 32.7%#18 of 50 | 31%#10 of 50 | +1.7 pts | 34.03% | MT |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.4 pts · US 7.6% | 9.2%#38 of 50 | 8.8%#36 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$6,998 (+1%) · US $368,697 | $478,744#39 of 50 | $471,746#38 of 50 | +$6,998+1% | $368,697 | Even |
| Home value change, one yearGap 0 pts · US +1.2% | +2%#27 of 50 | +2%#28 of 50 | 0 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$493 (+35%) · US $1,948 | $1,919#33 of 50 | $1,426#10 of 50 | +$493+35% | $1,948 | MT |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$1,777 (-1%) · US $100,006 | $118,073#37 of 50 | $119,850#38 of 50 | -$1,777-1% | $100,006 | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +0.9 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 95.5#23 of 50 | 94.6#22 of 50 | +0.9 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.4x (-6%) · US 4.6x | 5.9x#43 of 50 | 6.3x#47 of 50 | -0.4x-6% | 4.6x | ID |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.16¢ (-9%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 11.82¢/kWh#2 of 50 | 12.98¢/kWh#6 of 50 | -1.16¢-9% | 17.84¢/kWh | ID |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$1.30 (-14%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $7.69/Mcf#1 of 50 | $8.99/Mcf#2 of 50 | -$1.30-14% | $15.83/Mcf | ID |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.02 (+1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.35/gal#39 of 50 | $3.33/gal#35 of 50 | +$0.02+1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.3 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96.3#21 of 50 | 96#14 of 50 | +0.3 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$4,589 (-30%) · US $15,633 | $10,887#7 of 50 | $15,476#27 of 50 | -$4,589-30% | $15,633 | ID |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.33 pts · US 8.74% | 7.54%#10 of 50 | 7.87%#13 of 50 | -0.33 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.2 pts · US 5.46% | 5.7%#27 of 50 | 5.9%#30 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.23 pts · US 1.02% | 0.56%#10 of 50 | 0.79%#21 of 50 | -0.23 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +6.03 pts · US 6.66% | 6.03%#14 of 50 | 0%#2 of 50 | +6.03 pts | 6.66% | MT |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 95#18 of 50 | 95#20 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +4.5 pts · US 12.39% | 14.8%#9 of 50 | 10.3%#24 of 50 | +4.5 pts | 12.39% | ID |
| Pension funded ratioGap +18 pts · US 74.3% | 91%#6 of 50 | 73%#27 of 50 | +18 pts | 74.3% | ID |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,170 (-43%) · US $3,506 | $1,580#4 of 50 | $2,750#23 of 50 | -$1,170-43% | $3,506 | ID |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +2.3 pts · US +4.66% | +7.5%#8 of 50 | +5.2%#21 of 50 | +2.3 pts | +4.66% | ID |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +7 pts (+26%) · US 38.8 | 34#6 of 50 | 27#3 of 50 | +7 pts+26% | 38.8 | MT |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +17 pts · US 29.34% | 70%#5 of 50 | 53%#9 of 50 | +17 pts | 29.34% | ID |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -28.1 (-56%) · US 29.6 | 21.7#18 of 50 | 49.8#44 of 50 | -28.1-56% | 29.6 | ID |
| Public land shareGap +32.6 pts · US 17.16% | 62.5%#3 of 50 | 29.9%#11 of 50 | +32.6 pts | 17.16% | ID |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.7 min · US 25.2 min | 22.2 min#9 of 50 | 19.5 min#3 of 50 | +2.7 min | 25.2 min | MT |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 0.5%#39 of 50 | 0.8%#30 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +1 pts · US 12.28% | 12.7%#23 of 50 | 11.7%#30 of 50 | +1 pts | 12.28% | ID |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.3 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#25 of 50 | 91.5%#39 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 92.67% | ID |
| Households moving inIRSGap +14,441 (+68%) · US 78,682 | 35,831#34 of 50 | 21,390#41 of 50 | +14,441+68% | 78,682 | ID |
| Households moving outIRSGap +11,726 (+64%) · US 78,715 | 30,020#14 of 50 | 18,294#9 of 50 | +11,726+64% | 78,715 | MT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +2,715 · US -33 | +5,811#12 of 50 | +3,096#18 of 50 | +2,715 | -33 | ID |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.2 · US +0.4 | +2.9#5 of 50 | +2.7#6 of 50 | +0.2 | +0.4 | Even |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$2,138 (+3%) · US $77,690 | $81,248#19 of 50 | $79,110#25 of 50 | +$2,138+3% | $77,690 | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$1,103 (-2%) · US $77,024 | $64,061#43 of 50 | $65,164#40 of 50 | -$1,103-2% | $77,024 | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.3 · US +1.1 | +9.9#2 of 50 | +5.6#6 of 50 | +4.3 | +1.1 | ID |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$9,261 · US -$11,758 | -$11,891#26 of 50 | -$21,152#33 of 50 | +$9,261 | -$11,758 | ID |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$194 · US +$31,418 | +$26,637#37 of 50 | +$26,443#38 of 50 | +$194 | +$31,418 | Even |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$132 · US +$35,970 | +$30,814#36 of 50 | +$30,682#37 of 50 | +$132 | +$35,970 | Even |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Idaho and Montana numbers say when read together.
Idaho ranks higher overall
Idaho leads 6 of the 11 categories to Montana's 3, with 2 even; Montana is ahead on livability and outdoor access. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Idaho is ahead on 22 and Montana on 7.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 95.5 in Idaho and 94.6 in Montana, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $478,744 and $471,746. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,891 a year after typical costs in Idaho and -$21,152 in Montana.
Tax burdens are close
Idaho collects 7.54% of income in state and local taxes (low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); Montana collects 7.87% (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
Idaho pays more and is safer
Median household income is $81,166 in Idaho and $75,340 in Montana, with unemployment at 3.7% and 3.3%. Violent crime runs 217 per 100,000 residents in Idaho and 419 in Montana.
Moves between the two run about even
1,318 people moved from Idaho to Montana and 2,214 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Idaho is the better fit for retirees
For families, Idaho ranks #7 of 50 and Montana #10; for retirees, Idaho ranks #2 and Montana #10.
Idaho vs Montana: frequently asked questions
Is Idaho or Montana better to live in?
Idaho ranks #4 of 50 overall and Montana #7 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 95.5 vs 94.6); Idaho collects a similar share of income in taxes and has a 48% lower violent crime rate. Idaho scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Idaho cheaper than Montana?
Idaho and Montana cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 95.5 vs 94.6 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$11,891 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Idaho, and -$21,152 in Montana. The typical home value is $478,744 in Idaho and $471,746 in Montana.
Which has lower taxes, Idaho or Montana?
Idaho and Montana have similar tax burdens: 7.54% vs 7.87% of income in state and local taxes. Idaho's top income tax rate is 5.7%, its effective property tax rate 0.56% and its combined sales tax 6.03%; Montana's are 5.9%, 0.79% and 0%.
Is Idaho safer than Montana?
Idaho is safer: 217 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 419 in Montana, per the FBI. Idaho ranks #11 of 50 for violent crime and Montana #42. Property crime is 605 per 100,000 in Idaho and 1,449 in Montana. The safest tracked cities are Moscow, ID, and Whitefish, MT.
Are homes more expensive in Idaho or Montana?
Typical home values are about the same: $478,744 in Idaho and $471,746 in Montana. Buying the typical home takes about $118,073 of household income in Idaho and $119,850 in Montana, against median incomes of $81,166 and $75,340.
Do people earn more in Idaho or Montana?
Idaho pays more: median household income is $81,166 vs $75,340 in Montana, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.7% in Idaho and 3.3% in Montana. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Idaho's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 16 after adjusting for local costs and Montana's in 0, with 4 even.
Are more people moving from Idaho to Montana or from Montana to Idaho?
1,126 households moved from Idaho to Montana and 1,078 moved from Montana to Idaho in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 48 households for Montana. Movers to Montana reported an average income of $68,888; movers to Idaho reported $59,536. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,318 people (±693) moving from Idaho to Montana and 2,214 (±1,018) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Idaho or Montana?
Idaho is the better fit for retirees: #2 of 50 on the retiree index vs #10 for Montana. Idaho has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Montana has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$30,814 left after typical costs in Idaho and +$30,682 in Montana.
Which is better for families, Idaho or Montana?
Idaho and Montana are close for families: #7 and #10 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $10,887 a year in Idaho and $15,476 in Montana. High school graduation rates are 79.9% and 85.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,891 after typical costs in Idaho and -$21,152 in Montana.
Is Montana better than Idaho?
No: Idaho ranks higher than Montana overall, #4 of 50 vs #7, with a composite score of 78.4 to 75. Idaho leads 6 of 11 categories and Montana leads 3, including livability and outdoor access. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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Why this pair is featured: bordering states.