Montana vs North Dakota: Which Is Better to Live In?
Montana ranks #7 of 50 overall and North Dakota #5 as of the latest release. North Dakota is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 89 vs 94.6), has a 1.3-point lower tax burden. Overall they are 0.5 points apart, too close to call: Montana leads 4 of 11 categories, North Dakota leads 4.
- Violent crime rate is 39% lower in North Dakota (257 vs. 419 in Montana).
- Typical home value is 38% lower in North Dakota ($292,293 vs. $471,746 in Montana).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 23% lower in North Dakota ($1,100 vs. $1,426 in Montana).
| Measure | MontanaMT | North DakotaND | GapMT−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -0.5 pts | 75.0#7 of 50 · A | 75.5#5 of 50 · A+ | -0.5 pts | — | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +5.6 pts (+6%) · US 100 | 94.6#22 of 50 | 89#8 of 50 | +5.6 pts+6% | 100 | ND |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$20,030 · US -$11,758 | -$21,152#33 of 50 | -$1,122#11 of 50 | -$20,030 | -$11,758 | ND |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$179,453 (+61%) · US $368,697 | $471,746#38 of 50 | $292,293#16 of 50 | +$179,453+61% | $368,697 | ND |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.26 pts · US 8.74% | 7.87%#13 of 50 | 6.61%#8 of 50 | +1.26 pts | 8.74% | ND |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +162 (+63%) · US 328 | 419#42 of 50 | 257#22 of 50 | +162+63% | 328 | ND |
| Median household incomeGap -$2,531 (-3%) · US $80,903 | $75,340#35 of 50 | $77,871#25 of 50 | -$2,531-3% | $80,903 | ND |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.7 pts · US 85.62% | 85.8%#30 of 50 | 85.1%#32 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 85.62% | MT |
| Life expectancyGap -0.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#25 of 50 | 77.9#17 of 50 | -0.6 yrs | 76.9 | ND |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +3,142 · US -33 | +3,096#18 of 50 | -46#28 of 50 | +3,142 | -33 | MT |
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 Montana or North Dakota better to live in?
Montana scores 75 and North Dakota scores 75.5 out of 100, a 0.5-point gap this site treats as even. Montana leads 4 of 11 categories, North Dakota leads 4, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | MontanaMT | North DakotaND | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -12.2 | 15% | 51.5#17 · B+ | 63.7#8 · A | -12.2 pts | ND |
| Safety12% of scoregap -9.3 | 12% | 60.9#36 · C | 70.2#27 · C+ | -9.3 pts | ND |
| Health12% of scoregap +0.1 | 12% | 58.9#22 · B | 58.8#23 · B | +0.1 pts | Even |
| Education12% of scoregap +1.8 | 12% | 67.1#12 · B+ | 65.3#17 · B+ | +1.8 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -14.6 | 10% | 68.9#26 · B | 83.5#9 · A | -14.6 pts | ND |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -10.3 | 8% | 59.5#24 · B | 69.8#11 · B+ | -10.3 pts | ND |
| Growth7% of scoregap +1.9 | 7% | 53.6#6 · A | 51.7#8 · A | +1.9 pts | Even |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +4.1 | 7% | 58.7#7 · A | 54.6#14 · B+ | +4.1 pts | MT |
| Livability7% of scoregap +19.8 | 7% | 61.9#1 · A+ | 42.1#13 · B+ | +19.8 pts | MT |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +32.6 | 6% | 71.7#3 · A+ | 39.1#14 · B+ | +32.6 pts | MT |
| Environment4% of scoregap +24.4 | 4% | 62.9#6 · A | 38.5#27 · C+ | +24.4 pts | MT |
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 Montana cheaper than North Dakota?
North Dakota is cheaper: cost of living index 89 vs 94.6 in Montana (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $20,030 more a year in North Dakota after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | MontanaMT | North DakotaND | GapMT−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +5.6 pts (+6%) · US 100 | 94.6#22 of 50 | 89#8 of 50 | +5.6 pts+6% | 100 | ND |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.3 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96#14 of 50 | 95.7#13 of 50 | +0.3 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.17¢ (+10%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 12.98¢/kWh#6 of 50 | 11.81¢/kWh#1 of 50 | +1.17¢+10% | 17.84¢/kWh | ND |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.51 (-5%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $8.99/Mcf#2 of 50 | $9.50/Mcf#3 of 50 | -$0.51-5% | $15.83/Mcf | MT |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.02 (+1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.33/gal#35 of 50 | $3.31/gal#31 of 50 | +$0.02+1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$3,195 (+26%) · US $15,633 | $15,476#27 of 50 | $12,281#12 of 50 | +$3,195+26% | $15,633 | ND |
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 | MontanaMT | North DakotaND | GapMT−ND | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$10,028 | +$26,443costs $48,557 | +$36,471costs $38,529 | -$10,028 | ND |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$11,354 | +$17,000costs $58,000 | +$28,354costs $46,646 | -$11,354 | ND |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$20,030 | -$21,152costs $96,152 | -$1,122costs $76,122 | -$20,030 | ND |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$10,221 | +$30,682costs $44,318 | +$40,903costs $34,097 | -$10,221 | ND |
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 | MontanaMT | North DakotaND | GapMT−ND | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$11,722 | $32,352 | $20,630 | +$11,722 | ND |
| ChildcareGap +$6,390 | $30,952 | $24,562 | +$6,390 | ND |
| UtilitiesGap +$269 | $4,541 | $4,272 | +$269 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$33 | $10,812 | $10,779 | +$33 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$63 | $10,466 | $10,403 | +$63 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,553 | $7,029 | $5,476 | +$1,553 | ND |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Montana or North Dakota?
North Dakota collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.61% vs 7.87%. Montana has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; North Dakota has low income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | MontanaMT | North DakotaND | GapMT−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.26 pts · US 8.74% | 7.87%#13 of 50 | 6.61%#8 of 50 | +1.26 pts | 8.74% | ND |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +3.4 pts · US 5.46% | 5.9%#30 of 50 | 2.5%#10 of 50 | +3.4 pts | 5.46% | ND |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.2 pts · US 1.02% | 0.79%#21 of 50 | 0.99%#29 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -7.09 pts · US 6.66% | 0%#2 of 50 | 7.09%#29 of 50 | -7.09 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 Montana or North Dakota?
Homes cost 61% more in Montana: a typical home value of $471,746 in Montana vs $292,293 in North Dakota. Buying the typical home takes about $119,850 of income in Montana and $79,542 in North Dakota; the median household earns $75,340 and $77,871.
| Measure | MontanaMT | North DakotaND | GapMT−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$179,453 (+61%) · US $368,697 | $471,746#38 of 50 | $292,293#16 of 50 | +$179,453+61% | $368,697 | ND |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.2 pts · US +1.2% | +2%#28 of 50 | +5.2%#4 of 50 | -3.2 pts | +1.2% | ND |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$326 (+30%) · US $1,948 | $1,426#10 of 50 | $1,100#1 of 50 | +$326+30% | $1,948 | ND |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$40,308 (+51%) · US $100,006 | $119,850#38 of 50 | $79,542#15 of 50 | +$40,308+51% | $100,006 | ND |
| Home value to income ratioGap +2.5x (+66%) · US 4.6x | 6.3x#47 of 50 | 3.8x#17 of 50 | +2.5x+66% | 4.6x | ND |
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.
| MT | ND | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,427 | $1,504 |
| Income needed vs. median | +59% | +2% |
| Five-year change | +25% | +19% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Hot |
| Largest metro | Billings | Fargo |
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 Montana or North Dakota?
North Dakota pays more: median household income $77,871 vs $75,340, with unemployment at 3.3% in Montana and 2.6% in North Dakota. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Montana's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 1 after adjusting for local costs and North Dakota's in 16.
| Measure | MontanaMT | North DakotaND | GapMT−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$2,531 (-3%) · US $80,903 | $75,340#35 of 50 | $77,871#25 of 50 | -$2,531-3% | $80,903 | ND |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.7 pts · US 3.95% | 3.3%#9 of 50 | 2.6%#3 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 3.95% | ND |
| GDP per capitaGap -$19,925 (-27%) · US $64,333 | $53,889#42 of 50 | $73,814#10 of 50 | -$19,925-27% | $64,333 | ND |
| Real GDP growthGap +3 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#21 of 50 | -1%#49 of 50 | +3 pts | +1.91% | MT |
| Population growthGap -0.12 pts · US +0.51% | +0.63%#16 of 50 | +0.75%#14 of 50 | -0.12 pts | +0.51% | Even |
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 | MT | ND | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $128,043$115,239 in Billings | $141,894$126,286 in Fargo | ND |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $199,317$179,385 in Billings | $209,320$186,295 in Fargo | ND |
| General & Operations Managers | $90,166$81,149 in Billings | $98,070$87,282 in Fargo | ND |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $63,372$57,035 in Billings | $69,862$62,177 in Fargo | ND |
| Registered Nurses | $74,941$67,447 in Billings | $81,213$72,280 in Fargo | ND |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $58,723$52,851 in Billings | $64,757$57,634 in Fargo | ND |
| Mental Health Counselors | $47,868$43,081 in Billings | $53,440$47,562 in Fargo | ND |
| Civil Engineers | $84,653$76,188 in Billings | $90,154$80,237 in Fargo | ND |
| Software Developers | $116,186$104,567 in Billings | $121,375$108,024 in Fargo | ND |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $50,682$45,614 in Billings | $55,304$49,221 in Fargo | ND |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $92,892$83,603 in Billings | $97,121$86,438 in Fargo | ND |
| Accountants & Auditors | $74,913$67,422 in Billings | $79,062$70,365 in Fargo | ND |
| Secondary School Teachers | $60,323$54,291 in Billings | $64,392$57,309 in Fargo | ND |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $68,716$61,844 in Billings | $72,022$64,100 in Fargo | ND |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $49,906$44,915 in Billings | $53,196$47,344 in Fargo | ND |
| Construction Laborers | $40,154$36,139 in Billings | $42,722$38,023 in Fargo | ND |
| Electricians | $57,082$51,374 in Billings | $58,621$52,173 in Fargo | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $51,552$46,397 in Billings | $52,555$46,774 in Fargo | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $31,814$28,633 in Billings | $30,856$27,462 in Fargo | MT |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $44,668$40,201 in Billings | $43,729$38,919 in Fargo | 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 Montana safer than North Dakota?
North Dakota is safer: 257 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 419 in Montana (FBI). Property crime runs 1,449 and 1,698 per 100,000. North Dakota shows the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags its latest year as based on limited data.
| Measure | MontanaMT | North DakotaND | GapMT−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +162 (+63%) · US 328 | 419#42 of 50 | 257#22 of 50 | +162+63% | 328 | ND |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -250 (-15%) · US 1,535 | 1,449#26 of 50 | 1,698#37 of 50 | -250-15% | 1,535 | MT |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. North Dakota uses the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Whitefish, MT176 violent per 100K
- Lincoln, ND44 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Montana or North Dakota?
Montana and North Dakota are close on education (#12 and #17 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 85.8% and 85.1%. They are close on health (#22 and #23); life expectancy is 77.3 years in Montana and 77.9 in North Dakota.
| Measure | MontanaMT | North DakotaND | GapMT−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 273 | 279#10 of 50 | 280#8 of 50 | -1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 257 | 261#11 of 50 | 257#24 of 50 | +3 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.7 pts · US 85.62% | 85.8%#30 of 50 | 85.1%#32 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 85.62% | MT |
| Life expectancyGap -0.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#25 of 50 | 77.9#17 of 50 | -0.6 yrs | 76.9 | ND |
| Adults with obesityGap -5.8 pts · US 34.03% | 31%#10 of 50 | 36.8%#36 of 50 | -5.8 pts | 34.03% | MT |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.7 pts · US 7.6% | 8.8%#36 of 50 | 6.1%#17 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 7.6% | ND |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -11 pts (-29%) · US 38.8 | 27#3 of 50 | 38#19 of 50 | -11 pts-29% | 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).
- Whitefish, MTeducation score 92
- Beulah, NDeducation score 95
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: Montana #12, North Dakota #17. Health: Montana #22, North Dakota #23.
Are more people moving from Montana to North Dakota, or from North Dakota to Montana?
613 households moved from Montana to North Dakota and 501 moved from North Dakota to Montana in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 112 households for North Dakota. Movers to North Dakota reported an average income of $56,822; movers to Montana reported $64,884. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,556 people (±1,131) moving from Montana to North Dakota and 591 (±462) 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 | MontanaMT | North DakotaND | GapMT−ND | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +7,609 (+55%) | 21,390#41 of 50 | 13,781#48 of 50 | +7,609+55% | MT |
| Households moving outIRSGap +4,467 (+32%) | 18,294#9 of 50 | 13,827#3 of 50 | +4,467+32% | ND |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +3,142 | +3,096#18 of 50 | -46#28 of 50 | +3,142 | MT |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.8 | +2.7#6 of 50 | -0.1#28 of 50 | +2.8 | MT |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$24,514 (+45%) | $79,110#25 of 50 | $54,596#50 of 50 | +$24,514+45% | MT |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$360 (+1%) | $65,164#40 of 50 | $64,804#42 of 50 | +$360+1% | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +5.0 | +5.6#6 of 50 | +0.6#29 of 50 | +5.0 | MT |
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, Montana or North Dakota?
Montana is the better fit for outdoor enthusiasts; North Dakota is the better fit for families, retirees, and small business; 2 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | MontanaMT | North DakotaND | GapMT−ND | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +5 places | #10score 79.4 | #5score 81.1 | +5 places | ND |
| RetireesGap +6 places | #10score 76.8 | #4score 79.1 | +6 places | ND |
| Remote WorkersGap -1 places | #4score 76.6 | #5score 73.2 | -1 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +2 places | #5score 70.2 | #3score 75.9 | +2 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap +7 places | #10score 71 | #3score 79.1 | +7 places | ND |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -9 places | #2score 81.7 | #11score 59.9 | -9 places | MT |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesNorth Dakota (#5 vs #10)
- RetireesNorth Dakota (#4 vs #10)
- Remote WorkersEven (#4 vs #5)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#5 vs #3)
- Small BusinessNorth Dakota (#3 vs #10)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsMontana (#2 vs #11)
Which cities stand out in Montana and North Dakota?
Montana has 20 tracked cities and North Dakota has 20; the largest are Billings and Fargo. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | MontanaMT | North DakotaND |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Billings119,434 people | Fargo131,627 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Bozemanscore 64.2 | West Fargoscore 69.3 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Whitefish176 violent per 100K | Lincoln44 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Buttecost index 91.6 | Grand Forkscost index 86.7 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Bozemanwalkability 15.3 of 20 | West Fargowalkability 14.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Bozemancounty median AQI 11 | Minotcounty median AQI 36 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Whitefish92% graduation rate | Beulah95% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Belgrademedian income $97,328 | Horacemedian income $138,578 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Sidney+2.7% growth | Horace+12.7% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Montana and North Dakota compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Montana carries AA+ credit rating and North Dakota AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | MontanaMT | North DakotaND | GapMT−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +12 pts · US 29.34% | 53%#9 of 50 | 41%#13 of 50 | +12 pts | 29.34% | MT |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -2.9 (-6%) · US 29.6 | 49.8#44 of 50 | 52.7#46 of 50 | -2.9-6% | 29.6 | MT |
| Public land shareGap +26 pts · US 17.16% | 29.9%#11 of 50 | 3.9%#39 of 50 | +26 pts | 17.16% | MT |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2 min · US 25.2 min | 19.5 min#3 of 50 | 17.5 min#1 of 50 | +2 min | 25.2 min | ND |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 0.8%#30 of 50 | 0.5%#40 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +4.6 pts · US 12.28% | 11.7%#30 of 50 | 7.1%#49 of 50 | +4.6 pts | 12.28% | MT |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.8 pts · US 92.67% | 91.5%#39 of 50 | 90.7%#44 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 92.67% | MT |
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 | MontanaMT | North DakotaND | GapMT−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 95#20 of 50 | 95#19 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -8.3 pts · US 12.39% | 10.3%#24 of 50 | 18.6%#5 of 50 | -8.3 pts | 12.39% | ND |
| Pension funded ratioGap +3 pts · US 74.3% | 73%#27 of 50 | 70%#33 of 50 | +3 pts | 74.3% | MT |
| State debt per capitaGap +$560 (+26%) · US $3,506 | $2,750#23 of 50 | $2,190#13 of 50 | +$560+26% | $3,506 | ND |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -3.6 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#21 of 50 | +8.8%#3 of 50 | -3.6 pts | +4.66% | ND |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Montana AA+, North Dakota 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).
Montana vs North Dakota: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Montana is ahead on 17 of 51, North Dakota on 23, and 11 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | MontanaMT | North DakotaND | GapMT−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +345,336 (+43%) · US 6.8 million | 1.1 million#43 of 50 | 799,358#47 of 50 | +345,336+43% | 6.8 million | MT |
| Median household incomeGap -$2,531 (-3%) · US $80,903 | $75,340#35 of 50 | $77,871#25 of 50 | -$2,531-3% | $80,903 | ND |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.7 pts · US 3.95% | 3.3%#9 of 50 | 2.6%#3 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 3.95% | ND |
| Population growthGap -0.12 pts · US +0.51% | +0.63%#16 of 50 | +0.75%#14 of 50 | -0.12 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$19,925 (-27%) · US $64,333 | $53,889#42 of 50 | $73,814#10 of 50 | -$19,925-27% | $64,333 | ND |
| Real GDP growthGap +3 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#21 of 50 | -1%#49 of 50 | +3 pts | +1.91% | MT |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +162 (+63%) · US 328 | 419#42 of 50 | 257#22 of 50 | +162+63% | 328 | ND |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -250 (-15%) · US 1,535 | 1,449#26 of 50 | 1,698#37 of 50 | -250-15% | 1,535 | MT |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.7 pts · US 85.62% | 85.8%#30 of 50 | 85.1%#32 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 85.62% | MT |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -3 · US 237 | 239#20 of 50 | 241#6 of 50 | -3 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 273 | 279#10 of 50 | 280#8 of 50 | -1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +2 · US 214 | 217#12 of 50 | 216#21 of 50 | +2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 257 | 261#11 of 50 | 257#24 of 50 | +3 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#25 of 50 | 77.9#17 of 50 | -0.6 yrs | 76.9 | ND |
| Adults with obesityGap -5.8 pts · US 34.03% | 31%#10 of 50 | 36.8%#36 of 50 | -5.8 pts | 34.03% | MT |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2.7 pts · US 7.6% | 8.8%#36 of 50 | 6.1%#17 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 7.6% | ND |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$179,453 (+61%) · US $368,697 | $471,746#38 of 50 | $292,293#16 of 50 | +$179,453+61% | $368,697 | ND |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.2 pts · US +1.2% | +2%#28 of 50 | +5.2%#4 of 50 | -3.2 pts | +1.2% | ND |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$326 (+30%) · US $1,948 | $1,426#10 of 50 | $1,100#1 of 50 | +$326+30% | $1,948 | ND |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$40,308 (+51%) · US $100,006 | $119,850#38 of 50 | $79,542#15 of 50 | +$40,308+51% | $100,006 | ND |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +5.6 pts (+6%) · US 100 | 94.6#22 of 50 | 89#8 of 50 | +5.6 pts+6% | 100 | ND |
| Home value to income ratioGap +2.5x (+66%) · US 4.6x | 6.3x#47 of 50 | 3.8x#17 of 50 | +2.5x+66% | 4.6x | ND |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.17¢ (+10%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 12.98¢/kWh#6 of 50 | 11.81¢/kWh#1 of 50 | +1.17¢+10% | 17.84¢/kWh | ND |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.51 (-5%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $8.99/Mcf#2 of 50 | $9.50/Mcf#3 of 50 | -$0.51-5% | $15.83/Mcf | MT |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.02 (+1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.33/gal#35 of 50 | $3.31/gal#31 of 50 | +$0.02+1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.3 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96#14 of 50 | 95.7#13 of 50 | +0.3 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$3,195 (+26%) · US $15,633 | $15,476#27 of 50 | $12,281#12 of 50 | +$3,195+26% | $15,633 | ND |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.26 pts · US 8.74% | 7.87%#13 of 50 | 6.61%#8 of 50 | +1.26 pts | 8.74% | ND |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +3.4 pts · US 5.46% | 5.9%#30 of 50 | 2.5%#10 of 50 | +3.4 pts | 5.46% | ND |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.2 pts · US 1.02% | 0.79%#21 of 50 | 0.99%#29 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -7.09 pts · US 6.66% | 0%#2 of 50 | 7.09%#29 of 50 | -7.09 pts | 6.66% | MT |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 95#20 of 50 | 95#19 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -8.3 pts · US 12.39% | 10.3%#24 of 50 | 18.6%#5 of 50 | -8.3 pts | 12.39% | ND |
| Pension funded ratioGap +3 pts · US 74.3% | 73%#27 of 50 | 70%#33 of 50 | +3 pts | 74.3% | MT |
| State debt per capitaGap +$560 (+26%) · US $3,506 | $2,750#23 of 50 | $2,190#13 of 50 | +$560+26% | $3,506 | ND |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -3.6 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#21 of 50 | +8.8%#3 of 50 | -3.6 pts | +4.66% | ND |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -11 pts (-29%) · US 38.8 | 27#3 of 50 | 38#19 of 50 | -11 pts-29% | 38.8 | MT |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +12 pts · US 29.34% | 53%#9 of 50 | 41%#13 of 50 | +12 pts | 29.34% | MT |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -2.9 (-6%) · US 29.6 | 49.8#44 of 50 | 52.7#46 of 50 | -2.9-6% | 29.6 | MT |
| Public land shareGap +26 pts · US 17.16% | 29.9%#11 of 50 | 3.9%#39 of 50 | +26 pts | 17.16% | MT |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2 min · US 25.2 min | 19.5 min#3 of 50 | 17.5 min#1 of 50 | +2 min | 25.2 min | ND |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 0.8%#30 of 50 | 0.5%#40 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +4.6 pts · US 12.28% | 11.7%#30 of 50 | 7.1%#49 of 50 | +4.6 pts | 12.28% | MT |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.8 pts · US 92.67% | 91.5%#39 of 50 | 90.7%#44 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 92.67% | MT |
| Households moving inIRSGap +7,609 (+55%) · US 78,682 | 21,390#41 of 50 | 13,781#48 of 50 | +7,609+55% | 78,682 | MT |
| Households moving outIRSGap +4,467 (+32%) · US 78,715 | 18,294#9 of 50 | 13,827#3 of 50 | +4,467+32% | 78,715 | ND |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +3,142 · US -33 | +3,096#18 of 50 | -46#28 of 50 | +3,142 | -33 | MT |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.8 · US +0.4 | +2.7#6 of 50 | -0.1#28 of 50 | +2.8 | +0.4 | MT |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$24,514 (+45%) · US $77,690 | $79,110#25 of 50 | $54,596#50 of 50 | +$24,514+45% | $77,690 | MT |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$360 (+1%) · US $77,024 | $65,164#40 of 50 | $64,804#42 of 50 | +$360+1% | $77,024 | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +5.0 · US +1.1 | +5.6#6 of 50 | +0.6#29 of 50 | +5.0 | +1.1 | MT |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$20,030 · US -$11,758 | -$21,152#33 of 50 | -$1,122#11 of 50 | -$20,030 | -$11,758 | ND |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$10,028 · US +$31,418 | +$26,443#38 of 50 | +$36,471#9 of 50 | -$10,028 | +$31,418 | ND |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$10,221 · US +$35,970 | +$30,682#37 of 50 | +$40,903#10 of 50 | -$10,221 | +$35,970 | ND |
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 Montana and North Dakota numbers say when read together.
Neither state is better overall
Montana (75, #7) and North Dakota (75.5, #5) are within 2 composite points. Montana leads 4 categories, North Dakota leads 4, and 3 are even. The answer depends on which categories matter to you.
North Dakota is cheaper day to day
North Dakota's cost of living index is 89 against 94.6 in Montana (US = 100). The typical home costs $471,746 in Montana and $292,293 in North Dakota. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$21,152 a year after typical costs in Montana and -$1,122 in North Dakota.
North Dakota takes a smaller share in taxes
Montana collects 7.87% of income in state and local taxes (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack); North Dakota collects 6.61% (low income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
North Dakota pays more and is safer
Median household income is $75,340 in Montana and $77,871 in North Dakota, with unemployment at 3.3% and 2.6%. Violent crime runs 419 per 100,000 residents in Montana and 257 in North Dakota.
Moves between the two run about even
1,556 people moved from Montana to North Dakota and 591 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
North Dakota fits families and retirees better
For families, Montana ranks #10 of 50 and North Dakota #5; for retirees, Montana ranks #10 and North Dakota #4.
Montana vs North Dakota: frequently asked questions
Is Montana or North Dakota better to live in?
Montana ranks #7 of 50 overall and North Dakota #5 as of the latest release. North Dakota is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 89 vs 94.6), has a 1.3-point lower tax burden. Overall they are 0.5 points apart, too close to call: Montana leads 4 of 11 categories, North Dakota leads 4.
Is Montana cheaper than North Dakota?
North Dakota is cheaper than Montana: cost of living index 89 vs 94.6 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$21,152 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Montana, and -$1,122 in North Dakota. The typical home value is $471,746 in Montana and $292,293 in North Dakota.
Which has lower taxes, Montana or North Dakota?
North Dakota has the lower tax burden: 6.61% of income in state and local taxes vs 7.87% in Montana. Montana's top income tax rate is 5.9%, its effective property tax rate 0.79% and its combined sales tax 0%; North Dakota's are 2.5%, 0.99% and 7.09%.
Is Montana safer than North Dakota?
North Dakota is safer: 257 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 419 in Montana, per the FBI. Montana ranks #42 of 50 for violent crime and North Dakota #22. Property crime is 1,449 per 100,000 in Montana and 1,698 in North Dakota. North Dakota shows the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags its latest year as based on limited data. The safest tracked cities are Whitefish, MT, and Lincoln, ND.
Are homes more expensive in Montana or North Dakota?
Homes are 61% more expensive in Montana: the typical home value is $471,746 in Montana and $292,293 in North Dakota. Buying the typical home takes about $119,850 of household income in Montana and $79,542 in North Dakota, against median incomes of $75,340 and $77,871.
Do people earn more in Montana or North Dakota?
North Dakota pays more: median household income is $77,871 vs $75,340 in Montana, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.3% in Montana and 2.6% in North Dakota. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Montana's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 1 after adjusting for local costs and North Dakota's in 16, with 3 even.
Are more people moving from Montana to North Dakota or from North Dakota to Montana?
613 households moved from Montana to North Dakota and 501 moved from North Dakota to Montana in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 112 households for North Dakota. Movers to North Dakota reported an average income of $56,822; movers to Montana reported $64,884. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,556 people (±1,131) moving from Montana to North Dakota and 591 (±462) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Montana or North Dakota?
North Dakota is the better fit for retirees: #4 of 50 on the retiree index vs #10 for Montana. Montana has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; North Dakota has low income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$30,682 left after typical costs in Montana and +$40,903 in North Dakota.
Which is better for families, Montana or North Dakota?
North Dakota is the better fit for families: #5 of 50 on the families index vs #10 for Montana. Center-based infant care costs $15,476 a year in Montana and $12,281 in North Dakota. High school graduation rates are 85.8% and 85.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$21,152 after typical costs in Montana and -$1,122 in North Dakota.
Which has better schools, Montana or North Dakota?
Montana and North Dakota are close on education: #12 and #17 of 50 in the education category. Eighth graders average 279 in NAEP math in Montana and 280 in North Dakota. High school graduation rates are 85.8% in Montana and 85.1% in North Dakota, and the education category scores are 67.1 and 65.3 out of 100. Among tracked cities, Whitefish and Beulah have the strongest school metrics.
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Why this pair is featured: bordering states.