Utah vs Montana: Which Is Better to Live In?
Utah ranks #6 of 50 overall and Montana #7 as of the latest release. Montana is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.6 vs 98.9), has a 1.6-point lower tax burden, and has a 44% higher violent crime rate. Overall they are 0.4 points apart, too close to call: Utah leads 5 of 11 categories, Montana leads 5.
- Violent crime rate is 44% lower in Utah (236 vs. 419 in Montana).
- Median household income is 28% higher in Utah ($96,658 vs. $75,340 in Montana).
- Total tax burden is 17% lower in Montana (7.87% vs. 9.46% in Utah).
| Measure | UtahUT | MontanaMT | GapUT−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +0.4 pts | 75.4#6 of 50 · A | 75.0#7 of 50 · A | +0.4 pts | — | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.3 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 98.9#31 of 50 | 94.6#22 of 50 | +4.3 pts+5% | 100 | MT |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$3,026 · US -$11,758 | -$24,178#36 of 50 | -$21,152#33 of 50 | -$3,026 | -$11,758 | MT |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$62,836 (+13%) · US $368,697 | $534,582#45 of 50 | $471,746#38 of 50 | +$62,836+13% | $368,697 | MT |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.59 pts · US 8.74% | 9.46%#37 of 50 | 7.87%#13 of 50 | +1.59 pts | 8.74% | MT |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -183 (-44%) · US 328 | 236#17 of 50 | 419#42 of 50 | -183-44% | 328 | UT |
| Median household incomeGap +$21,318 (+28%) · US $80,903 | $96,658#9 of 50 | $75,340#35 of 50 | +$21,318+28% | $80,903 | UT |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.4 pts · US 85.62% | 88.2%#13 of 50 | 85.8%#30 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 85.62% | UT |
| Life expectancyGap +1.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.0#9 of 50 | 77.3#25 of 50 | +1.7 yrs | 76.9 | UT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +68 · US -33 | +3,164#17 of 50 | +3,096#18 of 50 | +68 | -33 | Even |
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 Utah or Montana better to live in?
Utah scores 75.4 and Montana scores 75 out of 100, a 0.4-point gap this site treats as even. Utah leads 5 of 11 categories, Montana leads 5, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | UtahUT | MontanaMT | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +14.1 | 15% | 65.6#5 · A+ | 51.5#17 · B+ | +14.1 pts | UT |
| Safety12% of scoregap +15.1 | 12% | 76.0#20 · B | 60.9#36 · C | +15.1 pts | UT |
| Health12% of scoregap +10.3 | 12% | 69.2#12 · B+ | 58.9#22 · B | +10.3 pts | UT |
| Education12% of scoregap +9.7 | 12% | 76.8#3 · A+ | 67.1#12 · B+ | +9.7 pts | UT |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -5.7 | 10% | 63.2#28 · C+ | 68.9#26 · B | -5.7 pts | MT |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +11.9 | 8% | 71.4#7 · A | 59.5#24 · B | +11.9 pts | UT |
| Growth7% of scoregap -3.6 | 7% | 50.0#11 · B+ | 53.6#6 · A | -3.6 pts | MT |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +1 | 7% | 59.7#4 · A+ | 58.7#7 · A | +1 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap -42.2 | 7% | 19.7#48 · D | 61.9#1 · A+ | -42.2 pts | MT |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -33.4 | 6% | 38.3#15 · B+ | 71.7#3 · A+ | -33.4 pts | MT |
| Environment4% of scoregap -34.4 | 4% | 28.5#42 · C | 62.9#6 · A | -34.4 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 Utah cheaper than Montana?
Montana is cheaper: cost of living index 94.6 vs 98.9 in Utah (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $3,026 more a year in Montana after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | UtahUT | MontanaMT | GapUT−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.3 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 98.9#31 of 50 | 94.6#22 of 50 | +4.3 pts+5% | 100 | MT |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.4 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96.4#25 of 50 | 96#14 of 50 | +0.4 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.09¢ (+1%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.07¢/kWh#7 of 50 | 12.98¢/kWh#6 of 50 | +0.09¢+1% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$1.20 (+13%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $10.19/Mcf#6 of 50 | $8.99/Mcf#2 of 50 | +$1.20+13% | $15.83/Mcf | MT |
| Gasoline priceGap $0.00 (0%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.33/gal#34 of 50 | $3.33/gal#35 of 50 | $0.000% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$943 (-6%) · US $15,633 | $14,533#23 of 50 | $15,476#27 of 50 | -$943-6% | $15,633 | UT |
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 | UtahUT | MontanaMT | GapUT−MT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$2,349 | +$24,094costs $50,906 | +$26,443costs $48,557 | -$2,349 | MT |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$4,270 | +$12,730costs $62,270 | +$17,000costs $58,000 | -$4,270 | MT |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$3,026 | -$24,178costs $99,178 | -$21,152costs $96,152 | -$3,026 | MT |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$3,888 | +$26,794costs $48,205 | +$30,682costs $44,318 | -$3,888 | MT |
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 | UtahUT | MontanaMT | GapUT−MT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$3,026 | $35,378 | $32,352 | +$3,026 | MT |
| ChildcareGap -$1,886 | $29,066 | $30,952 | -$1,886 | UT |
| UtilitiesGap +$206 | $4,747 | $4,541 | +$206 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$46 | $10,858 | $10,812 | +$46 | Even |
| TransportationGap $0 | $10,466 | $10,466 | $0 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,634 | $8,663 | $7,029 | +$1,634 | MT |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Utah or Montana?
Montana collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.87% vs 9.46%. Utah 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 | UtahUT | MontanaMT | GapUT−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.59 pts · US 8.74% | 9.46%#37 of 50 | 7.87%#13 of 50 | +1.59 pts | 8.74% | MT |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -1.35 pts · US 5.46% | 4.55%#19 of 50 | 5.9%#30 of 50 | -1.35 pts | 5.46% | UT |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.24 pts · US 1.02% | 0.55%#6 of 50 | 0.79%#21 of 50 | -0.24 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +7.42 pts · US 6.66% | 7.42%#31 of 50 | 0%#2 of 50 | +7.42 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 Utah or Montana?
Homes cost 13% more in Utah: a typical home value of $534,582 in Utah vs $471,746 in Montana. Buying the typical home takes about $133,317 of income in Utah and $119,850 in Montana; the median household earns $96,658 and $75,340.
| Measure | UtahUT | MontanaMT | GapUT−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$62,836 (+13%) · US $368,697 | $534,582#45 of 50 | $471,746#38 of 50 | +$62,836+13% | $368,697 | MT |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.5 pts · US +1.2% | +1.5%#32 of 50 | +2%#28 of 50 | -0.5 pts | +1.2% | MT |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$215 (+15%) · US $1,948 | $1,641#22 of 50 | $1,426#10 of 50 | +$215+15% | $1,948 | MT |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$13,467 (+11%) · US $100,006 | $133,317#42 of 50 | $119,850#38 of 50 | +$13,467+11% | $100,006 | MT |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.8x (-13%) · US 4.6x | 5.5x#39 of 50 | 6.3x#47 of 50 | -0.8x-13% | 4.6x | UT |
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.
| UT | MT | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,750 | $2,427 |
| Income needed vs. median | +38% | +59% |
| Five-year change | +13.8% | +25% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Warm |
| Largest metro | Salt Lake 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 Utah or Montana?
Utah pays more: median household income $96,658 vs $75,340, with unemployment at 3.6% in Utah and 3.3% in Montana. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Utah's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Montana's in 0.
| Measure | UtahUT | MontanaMT | GapUT−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$21,318 (+28%) · US $80,903 | $96,658#9 of 50 | $75,340#35 of 50 | +$21,318+28% | $80,903 | UT |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 3.6%#17 of 50 | 3.3%#9 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$8,555 (+16%) · US $64,333 | $62,444#23 of 50 | $53,889#42 of 50 | +$8,555+16% | $64,333 | UT |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.5 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#3 of 50 | +2%#21 of 50 | +1.5 pts | +1.91% | UT |
| Population growthGap +0.4 pts · US +0.51% | +1.03%#5 of 50 | +0.63%#16 of 50 | +0.4 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 | UT | MT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $154,705$146,970 in Salt Lake City | $128,043$115,239 in Billings | UT |
| Software Developers | $141,301$134,236 in Salt Lake City | $116,186$104,567 in Billings | UT |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $223,527$212,351 in Salt Lake City | $199,317$179,385 in Billings | UT |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $110,967$105,419 in Salt Lake City | $92,892$83,603 in Billings | UT |
| General & Operations Managers | $104,626$99,395 in Salt Lake City | $90,166$81,149 in Billings | UT |
| Registered Nurses | $88,476$84,052 in Salt Lake City | $74,941$67,447 in Billings | UT |
| Accountants & Auditors | $85,746$81,459 in Salt Lake City | $74,913$67,422 in Billings | UT |
| Civil Engineers | $95,153$90,395 in Salt Lake City | $84,653$76,188 in Billings | UT |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $68,495$65,070 in Salt Lake City | $58,723$52,851 in Billings | UT |
| Mental Health Counselors | $57,287$54,423 in Salt Lake City | $47,868$43,081 in Billings | UT |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $77,691$73,806 in Salt Lake City | $68,716$61,844 in Billings | UT |
| Secondary School Teachers | $68,679$65,245 in Salt Lake City | $60,323$54,291 in Billings | UT |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $58,598$55,668 in Salt Lake City | $51,552$46,397 in Billings | UT |
| Electricians | $63,815$60,624 in Salt Lake City | $57,082$51,374 in Billings | UT |
| Construction Laborers | $46,431$44,109 in Salt Lake City | $40,154$36,139 in Billings | UT |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $69,647$66,165 in Salt Lake City | $63,372$57,035 in Billings | UT |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $54,477$51,753 in Salt Lake City | $49,906$44,915 in Billings | UT |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $55,009$52,259 in Salt Lake City | $50,682$45,614 in Billings | UT |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $48,860$46,417 in Salt Lake City | $44,668$40,201 in Billings | UT |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $34,208$32,498 in Salt Lake City | $31,814$28,633 in Billings | UT |
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 Utah safer than Montana?
Utah is safer: 236 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 419 in Montana (FBI). Property crime runs 1,416 and 1,449 per 100,000.
| Measure | UtahUT | MontanaMT | GapUT−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -183 (-44%) · US 328 | 236#17 of 50 | 419#42 of 50 | -183-44% | 328 | UT |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -33 (-2%) · US 1,535 | 1,416#23 of 50 | 1,449#26 of 50 | -33-2% | 1,535 | Even |
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.
- Riverton, UT62 violent per 100K
- Whitefish, MT176 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Utah or Montana?
Utah scores higher for education (#3 of 50 vs #12), with high school graduation rates of 88.2% and 85.8%. Utah scores higher for health (#12 vs #22); life expectancy is 79.0 years in Utah and 77.3 in Montana.
| Measure | UtahUT | MontanaMT | GapUT−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 273 | 282#4 of 50 | 279#10 of 50 | +3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 261#8 of 50 | 261#11 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.4 pts · US 85.62% | 88.2%#13 of 50 | 85.8%#30 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 85.62% | UT |
| Life expectancyGap +1.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.0#9 of 50 | 77.3#25 of 50 | +1.7 yrs | 76.9 | UT |
| Adults with obesityGap 0 pts · US 34.03% | 31%#9 of 50 | 31%#10 of 50 | 0 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.5 pts · US 7.6% | 8.3%#33 of 50 | 8.8%#36 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 7.6% | UT |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +17 pts (+63%) · US 38.8 | 44#45 of 50 | 27#3 of 50 | +17 pts+63% | 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).
- Layton, UTeducation score 94.2
- 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: Utah #3, Montana #12. Health: Utah #12, Montana #22.
Are more people moving from Utah to Montana, or from Montana to Utah?
666 households moved from Utah to Montana and 656 moved from Montana to Utah in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 10 households for Montana. Movers to Montana reported an average income of $67,653; movers to Utah reported $58,274. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 706 people (±389) moving from Utah to Montana and 876 (±582) 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 | UtahUT | MontanaMT | GapUT−MT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +24,473 (+114%) | 45,863#29 of 50 | 21,390#41 of 50 | +24,473+114% | UT |
| Households moving outIRSGap +24,405 (+133%) | 42,699#20 of 50 | 18,294#9 of 50 | +24,405+133% | MT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +68 | +3,164#17 of 50 | +3,096#18 of 50 | +68 | Even |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.8 | +0.9#20 of 50 | +2.7#6 of 50 | -1.8 | MT |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$1,019 (+1%) | $80,129#22 of 50 | $79,110#25 of 50 | +$1,019+1% | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$9,723 (+15%) | $74,887#22 of 50 | $65,164#40 of 50 | +$9,723+15% | UT |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.7 | +0.9#27 of 50 | +5.6#6 of 50 | -4.7 | 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, Utah or Montana?
Utah is the better fit for small business; Montana is the better fit for remote workers and outdoor enthusiasts; 3 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | UtahUT | MontanaMT | GapUT−MT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +1 places | #11score 78.9 | #10score 79.4 | +1 places | Even |
| RetireesGap +2 places | #12score 72.7 | #10score 76.8 | +2 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap +7 places | #11score 60.5 | #4score 76.6 | +7 places | MT |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +2 places | #7score 68.8 | #5score 70.2 | +2 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap -5 places | #5score 78.2 | #10score 71 | -5 places | UT |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +15 places | #17score 55.1 | #2score 81.7 | +15 places | MT |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#11 vs #10)
- RetireesEven (#12 vs #10)
- Remote WorkersMontana (#4 vs #11)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#7 vs #5)
- Small BusinessUtah (#5 vs #10)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsMontana (#2 vs #17)
Which cities stand out in Utah and Montana?
Utah has 20 tracked cities and Montana has 20; the largest are Salt Lake City and Billings. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | UtahUT | MontanaMT |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Salt Lake City208,007 people | Billings119,434 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | South Jordanscore 67.3 | Bozemanscore 64.2 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Riverton62 violent per 100K | Whitefish176 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Logancost index 95.9 | Buttecost index 91.6 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Murraywalkability 14.7 of 20 | Bozemanwalkability 15.3 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | St. Georgecounty median AQI 44 | Bozemancounty median AQI 11 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Layton94.2% graduation rate | Whitefish92% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | South Jordanmedian income $134,047 | Belgrademedian income $97,328 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Eagle Mountain+8.5% growth | Sidney+2.7% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Utah and Montana compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Utah carries AAA credit rating and Montana AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | UtahUT | MontanaMT | GapUT−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -38 pts · US 29.34% | 15%#27 of 50 | 53%#9 of 50 | -38 pts | 29.34% | MT |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -21.5 (-43%) · US 29.6 | 28.3#27 of 50 | 49.8#44 of 50 | -21.5-43% | 29.6 | UT |
| Public land shareGap +35 pts · US 17.16% | 64.9%#2 of 50 | 29.9%#11 of 50 | +35 pts | 17.16% | UT |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.7 min · US 25.2 min | 23.2 min#14 of 50 | 19.5 min#3 of 50 | +3.7 min | 25.2 min | MT |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1.1 pts · US 2.29% | 1.9%#16 of 50 | 0.8%#30 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 2.29% | UT |
| Workers working from homeGap +4 pts · US 12.28% | 15.7%#8 of 50 | 11.7%#30 of 50 | +4 pts | 12.28% | UT |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.6 pts · US 92.67% | 94.1%#11 of 50 | 91.5%#39 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 92.67% | UT |
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 | UtahUT | MontanaMT | GapUT−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#3 of 50 | 95#20 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | UT |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +4.2 pts · US 12.39% | 14.5%#11 of 50 | 10.3%#24 of 50 | +4.2 pts | 12.39% | UT |
| Pension funded ratioGap +19 pts · US 74.3% | 92%#5 of 50 | 73%#27 of 50 | +19 pts | 74.3% | UT |
| State debt per capitaGap -$570 (-21%) · US $3,506 | $2,180#12 of 50 | $2,750#23 of 50 | -$570-21% | $3,506 | UT |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +2 pts · US +4.66% | +7.2%#9 of 50 | +5.2%#21 of 50 | +2 pts | +4.66% | UT |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Utah AAA, 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).
Utah vs Montana: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Utah is ahead on 21 of 51, Montana on 16, and 14 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | UtahUT | MontanaMT | GapUT−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +2,394,210 (+209%) · US 6.8 million | 3.5 million#30 of 50 | 1.1 million#43 of 50 | +2,394,210+209% | 6.8 million | UT |
| Median household incomeGap +$21,318 (+28%) · US $80,903 | $96,658#9 of 50 | $75,340#35 of 50 | +$21,318+28% | $80,903 | UT |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 3.6%#17 of 50 | 3.3%#9 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.4 pts · US +0.51% | +1.03%#5 of 50 | +0.63%#16 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$8,555 (+16%) · US $64,333 | $62,444#23 of 50 | $53,889#42 of 50 | +$8,555+16% | $64,333 | UT |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.5 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#3 of 50 | +2%#21 of 50 | +1.5 pts | +1.91% | UT |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -183 (-44%) · US 328 | 236#17 of 50 | 419#42 of 50 | -183-44% | 328 | UT |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -33 (-2%) · US 1,535 | 1,416#23 of 50 | 1,449#26 of 50 | -33-2% | 1,535 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.4 pts · US 85.62% | 88.2%#13 of 50 | 85.8%#30 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 85.62% | UT |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +3 · US 237 | 242#5 of 50 | 239#20 of 50 | +3 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 273 | 282#4 of 50 | 279#10 of 50 | +3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +2 · US 214 | 219#7 of 50 | 217#12 of 50 | +2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 261#8 of 50 | 261#11 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.0#9 of 50 | 77.3#25 of 50 | +1.7 yrs | 76.9 | UT |
| Adults with obesityGap 0 pts · US 34.03% | 31%#9 of 50 | 31%#10 of 50 | 0 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.5 pts · US 7.6% | 8.3%#33 of 50 | 8.8%#36 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 7.6% | UT |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$62,836 (+13%) · US $368,697 | $534,582#45 of 50 | $471,746#38 of 50 | +$62,836+13% | $368,697 | MT |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.5 pts · US +1.2% | +1.5%#32 of 50 | +2%#28 of 50 | -0.5 pts | +1.2% | MT |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$215 (+15%) · US $1,948 | $1,641#22 of 50 | $1,426#10 of 50 | +$215+15% | $1,948 | MT |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$13,467 (+11%) · US $100,006 | $133,317#42 of 50 | $119,850#38 of 50 | +$13,467+11% | $100,006 | MT |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.3 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 98.9#31 of 50 | 94.6#22 of 50 | +4.3 pts+5% | 100 | MT |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.8x (-13%) · US 4.6x | 5.5x#39 of 50 | 6.3x#47 of 50 | -0.8x-13% | 4.6x | UT |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.09¢ (+1%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.07¢/kWh#7 of 50 | 12.98¢/kWh#6 of 50 | +0.09¢+1% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$1.20 (+13%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $10.19/Mcf#6 of 50 | $8.99/Mcf#2 of 50 | +$1.20+13% | $15.83/Mcf | MT |
| Gasoline priceGap $0.00 (0%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.33/gal#34 of 50 | $3.33/gal#35 of 50 | $0.000% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.4 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96.4#25 of 50 | 96#14 of 50 | +0.4 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$943 (-6%) · US $15,633 | $14,533#23 of 50 | $15,476#27 of 50 | -$943-6% | $15,633 | UT |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.59 pts · US 8.74% | 9.46%#37 of 50 | 7.87%#13 of 50 | +1.59 pts | 8.74% | MT |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -1.35 pts · US 5.46% | 4.55%#19 of 50 | 5.9%#30 of 50 | -1.35 pts | 5.46% | UT |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.24 pts · US 1.02% | 0.55%#6 of 50 | 0.79%#21 of 50 | -0.24 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +7.42 pts · US 6.66% | 7.42%#31 of 50 | 0%#2 of 50 | +7.42 pts | 6.66% | MT |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#3 of 50 | 95#20 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | UT |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +4.2 pts · US 12.39% | 14.5%#11 of 50 | 10.3%#24 of 50 | +4.2 pts | 12.39% | UT |
| Pension funded ratioGap +19 pts · US 74.3% | 92%#5 of 50 | 73%#27 of 50 | +19 pts | 74.3% | UT |
| State debt per capitaGap -$570 (-21%) · US $3,506 | $2,180#12 of 50 | $2,750#23 of 50 | -$570-21% | $3,506 | UT |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +2 pts · US +4.66% | +7.2%#9 of 50 | +5.2%#21 of 50 | +2 pts | +4.66% | UT |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +17 pts (+63%) · US 38.8 | 44#45 of 50 | 27#3 of 50 | +17 pts+63% | 38.8 | MT |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -38 pts · US 29.34% | 15%#27 of 50 | 53%#9 of 50 | -38 pts | 29.34% | MT |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -21.5 (-43%) · US 29.6 | 28.3#27 of 50 | 49.8#44 of 50 | -21.5-43% | 29.6 | UT |
| Public land shareGap +35 pts · US 17.16% | 64.9%#2 of 50 | 29.9%#11 of 50 | +35 pts | 17.16% | UT |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.7 min · US 25.2 min | 23.2 min#14 of 50 | 19.5 min#3 of 50 | +3.7 min | 25.2 min | MT |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1.1 pts · US 2.29% | 1.9%#16 of 50 | 0.8%#30 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 2.29% | UT |
| Workers working from homeGap +4 pts · US 12.28% | 15.7%#8 of 50 | 11.7%#30 of 50 | +4 pts | 12.28% | UT |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.6 pts · US 92.67% | 94.1%#11 of 50 | 91.5%#39 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 92.67% | UT |
| Households moving inIRSGap +24,473 (+114%) · US 78,682 | 45,863#29 of 50 | 21,390#41 of 50 | +24,473+114% | 78,682 | UT |
| Households moving outIRSGap +24,405 (+133%) · US 78,715 | 42,699#20 of 50 | 18,294#9 of 50 | +24,405+133% | 78,715 | MT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +68 · US -33 | +3,164#17 of 50 | +3,096#18 of 50 | +68 | -33 | Even |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.8 · US +0.4 | +0.9#20 of 50 | +2.7#6 of 50 | -1.8 | +0.4 | MT |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$1,019 (+1%) · US $77,690 | $80,129#22 of 50 | $79,110#25 of 50 | +$1,019+1% | $77,690 | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$9,723 (+15%) · US $77,024 | $74,887#22 of 50 | $65,164#40 of 50 | +$9,723+15% | $77,024 | UT |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.7 · US +1.1 | +0.9#27 of 50 | +5.6#6 of 50 | -4.7 | +1.1 | MT |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$3,026 · US -$11,758 | -$24,178#36 of 50 | -$21,152#33 of 50 | -$3,026 | -$11,758 | MT |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$2,349 · US +$31,418 | +$24,094#42 of 50 | +$26,443#38 of 50 | -$2,349 | +$31,418 | MT |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$3,888 · US +$35,970 | +$26,794#41 of 50 | +$30,682#37 of 50 | -$3,888 | +$35,970 | MT |
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 Utah and Montana numbers say when read together.
Neither state is better overall
Utah (75.4, #6) and Montana (75, #7) are within 2 composite points. Utah leads 5 categories, Montana leads 5, and 1 are even. The answer depends on which categories matter to you.
Montana is cheaper day to day
Montana's cost of living index is 94.6 against 98.9 in Utah (US = 100). The typical home costs $534,582 in Utah and $471,746 in Montana. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$24,178 a year after typical costs in Utah and -$21,152 in Montana.
Montana takes a smaller share in taxes
Utah collects 9.46% 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).
Utah pays more and is safer
Median household income is $96,658 in Utah and $75,340 in Montana, with unemployment at 3.6% and 3.3%. Violent crime runs 236 per 100,000 residents in Utah and 419 in Montana.
Moves between the two run about even
706 people moved from Utah to Montana and 876 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Families and retirees: a split decision
For families, Utah ranks #11 of 50 and Montana #10; for retirees, Utah ranks #12 and Montana #10.
Utah vs Montana: frequently asked questions
Is Utah or Montana better to live in?
Utah ranks #6 of 50 overall and Montana #7 as of the latest release. Montana is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.6 vs 98.9), has a 1.6-point lower tax burden, and has a 44% higher violent crime rate. Overall they are 0.4 points apart, too close to call: Utah leads 5 of 11 categories, Montana leads 5.
Is Utah cheaper than Montana?
Montana is cheaper than Utah: cost of living index 94.6 vs 98.9 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$24,178 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Utah, and -$21,152 in Montana. The typical home value is $534,582 in Utah and $471,746 in Montana.
Which has lower taxes, Utah or Montana?
Montana has the lower tax burden: 7.87% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.46% in Utah. Utah's top income tax rate is 4.55%, its effective property tax rate 0.55% and its combined sales tax 7.42%; Montana's are 5.9%, 0.79% and 0%.
Is Utah safer than Montana?
Utah is safer: 236 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 419 in Montana, per the FBI. Utah ranks #17 of 50 for violent crime and Montana #42. Property crime is 1,416 per 100,000 in Utah and 1,449 in Montana. The safest tracked cities are Riverton, UT, and Whitefish, MT.
Are homes more expensive in Utah or Montana?
Homes are 13% more expensive in Utah: the typical home value is $534,582 in Utah and $471,746 in Montana. Buying the typical home takes about $133,317 of household income in Utah and $119,850 in Montana, against median incomes of $96,658 and $75,340.
Do people earn more in Utah or Montana?
Utah pays more: median household income is $96,658 vs $75,340 in Montana, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.6% in Utah and 3.3% in Montana. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Utah's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Montana's in 0.
Are more people moving from Utah to Montana or from Montana to Utah?
666 households moved from Utah to Montana and 656 moved from Montana to Utah in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 10 households for Montana. Movers to Montana reported an average income of $67,653; movers to Utah reported $58,274. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 706 people (±389) moving from Utah to Montana and 876 (±582) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Utah or Montana?
Utah and Montana are close for retirees: #12 and #10 of 50 on the retiree index. Utah 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 +$26,794 left after typical costs in Utah and +$30,682 in Montana.
Which is better for families, Utah or Montana?
Utah and Montana are close for families: #11 and #10 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $14,533 a year in Utah and $15,476 in Montana. High school graduation rates are 88.2% and 85.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$24,178 after typical costs in Utah and -$21,152 in Montana.
Which has better schools, Utah or Montana?
Utah scores higher for education: #3 of 50 vs #12 for Montana. Eighth graders average 282 in NAEP math in Utah and 279 in Montana. High school graduation rates are 88.2% in Utah and 85.8% in Montana, and the education category scores are 76.8 and 67.1 out of 100. Among tracked cities, Layton and Whitefish have the strongest school metrics.
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