Washington vs Montana: Which Is Better to Live In?
Washington ranks #20 of 50 overall and Montana #7 as of the latest release. Montana is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.6 vs 107), has a 0.7-point lower tax burden, and has a 32% higher violent crime rate. Montana scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 4.
- Typical rent, largest metro is 37% lower in Montana ($1,426 vs. $2,278 in Washington).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 33% lower in Montana ($15,476 vs. $23,136 in Washington).
- Violent crime rate is 32% lower in Washington (284 vs. 419 in Montana).
| Measure | WashingtonWA | MontanaMT | GapWA−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -13.2 pts | 61.8#20 of 50 · B | 75.0#7 of 50 · A | -13.2 pts | — | MT |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +12.4 pts (+13%) · US 100 | 107#46 of 50 | 94.6#22 of 50 | +12.4 pts+13% | 100 | MT |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$26,741 · US -$11,758 | -$47,893#47 of 50 | -$21,152#33 of 50 | -$26,741 | -$11,758 | MT |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$120,133 (+25%) · US $368,697 | $591,879#47 of 50 | $471,746#38 of 50 | +$120,133+25% | $368,697 | MT |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.74 pts · US 8.74% | 8.61%#22 of 50 | 7.87%#13 of 50 | +0.74 pts | 8.74% | MT |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -135 (-32%) · US 328 | 284#25 of 50 | 419#42 of 50 | -135-32% | 328 | WA |
| Median household incomeGap +$24,049 (+32%) · US $80,903 | $99,389#7 of 50 | $75,340#35 of 50 | +$24,049+32% | $80,903 | WA |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.2 pts · US 85.62% | 83.6%#36 of 50 | 85.8%#30 of 50 | -2.2 pts | 85.62% | MT |
| Life expectancyGap +1.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.4#13 of 50 | 77.3#25 of 50 | +1.1 yrs | 76.9 | WA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +6,743 · US -33 | +9,839#9 of 50 | +3,096#18 of 50 | +6,743 | -33 | WA |
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 Washington or Montana better to live in?
Montana scores higher overall: 75 to 61.8 out of 100, #7 of 50 against #20. Washington leads 4 of 11 categories, Montana leads 5, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | WashingtonWA | MontanaMT | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +0.8 | 15% | 52.3#16 · B+ | 51.5#17 · B+ | +0.8 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap +3 | 12% | 63.9#30 · C+ | 60.9#36 · C | +3 pts | WA |
| Health12% of scoregap +9.3 | 12% | 68.2#13 · B+ | 58.9#22 · B | +9.3 pts | WA |
| Education12% of scoregap -9.7 | 12% | 57.4#29 · C+ | 67.1#12 · B+ | -9.7 pts | MT |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -29.8 | 10% | 39.1#46 · D | 68.9#26 · B | -29.8 pts | MT |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +4.8 | 8% | 64.3#17 · B+ | 59.5#24 · B | +4.8 pts | WA |
| Growth7% of scoregap -12.8 | 7% | 40.8#24 · B | 53.6#6 · A | -12.8 pts | MT |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -0.1 | 7% | 58.6#8 · A | 58.7#7 · A | -0.1 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap -28 | 7% | 33.9#25 · B | 61.9#1 · A+ | -28 pts | MT |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -36.3 | 6% | 35.4#19 · B | 71.7#3 · A+ | -36.3 pts | MT |
| Environment4% of scoregap +10.2 | 4% | 73.1#3 · A+ | 62.9#6 · A | +10.2 pts | WA |
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 Washington cheaper than Montana?
Montana is cheaper: cost of living index 94.6 vs 107 in Washington (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $26,741 more a year in Montana after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | WashingtonWA | MontanaMT | GapWA−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +12.4 pts (+13%) · US 100 | 107#46 of 50 | 94.6#22 of 50 | +12.4 pts+13% | 100 | MT |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +8.4 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 104.4#44 of 50 | 96#14 of 50 | +8.4 pts+9% | 100 | MT |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.13¢ (+1%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.11¢/kWh#8 of 50 | 12.98¢/kWh#6 of 50 | +0.13¢+1% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$8.63 (+96%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.62/Mcf#38 of 50 | $8.99/Mcf#2 of 50 | +$8.63+96% | $15.83/Mcf | MT |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.74 (+22%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.07/gal#47 of 50 | $3.33/gal#35 of 50 | +$0.74+22% | $3.32/gal | MT |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$7,660 (+49%) · US $15,633 | $23,136#47 of 50 | $15,476#27 of 50 | +$7,660+49% | $15,633 | MT |
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 | WashingtonWA | MontanaMT | GapWA−MT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$4,311 | +$22,132costs $52,869 | +$26,443costs $48,557 | -$4,311 | MT |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$8,581 | +$8,419costs $66,582 | +$17,000costs $58,000 | -$8,581 | MT |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$26,741 | -$47,893costs $122,893 | -$21,152costs $96,152 | -$26,741 | MT |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$7,015 | +$23,667costs $51,333 | +$30,682costs $44,318 | -$7,015 | 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 | WashingtonWA | MontanaMT | GapWA−MT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$8,771 | $41,123 | $32,352 | +$8,771 | MT |
| ChildcareGap +$15,320 | $46,272 | $30,952 | +$15,320 | MT |
| UtilitiesGap +$595 | $5,136 | $4,541 | +$595 | MT |
| GroceriesGap +$947 | $11,759 | $10,812 | +$947 | MT |
| TransportationGap +$2,325 | $12,791 | $10,466 | +$2,325 | MT |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,217 | $5,812 | $7,029 | -$1,217 | WA |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Washington or Montana?
Montana collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.87% vs 8.61%. Washington has no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; Montana has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | WashingtonWA | MontanaMT | GapWA−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.74 pts · US 8.74% | 8.61%#22 of 50 | 7.87%#13 of 50 | +0.74 pts | 8.74% | MT |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.9 pts · US 5.46% | none#4 of 50 | 5.9%#30 of 50 | -5.9 pts | 5.46% | WA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.09 pts · US 1.02% | 0.88%#27 of 50 | 0.79%#21 of 50 | +0.09 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +9.51 pts · US 6.66% | 9.51%#48 of 50 | 0%#2 of 50 | +9.51 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 Washington or Montana?
Homes cost 25% more in Washington: a typical home value of $591,879 in Washington vs $471,746 in Montana. Buying the typical home takes about $155,542 of income in Washington and $119,850 in Montana; the median household earns $99,389 and $75,340.
| Measure | WashingtonWA | MontanaMT | GapWA−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$120,133 (+25%) · US $368,697 | $591,879#47 of 50 | $471,746#38 of 50 | +$120,133+25% | $368,697 | MT |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.3 pts · US +1.2% | -0.3%#43 of 50 | +2%#28 of 50 | -2.3 pts | +1.2% | MT |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$852 (+60%) · US $1,948 | $2,278#41 of 50 | $1,426#10 of 50 | +$852+60% | $1,948 | MT |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$35,692 (+30%) · US $100,006 | $155,542#46 of 50 | $119,850#38 of 50 | +$35,692+30% | $100,006 | MT |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.3x (-5%) · US 4.6x | 6x#44 of 50 | 6.3x#47 of 50 | -0.3x-5% | 4.6x | WA |
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.
| WA | MT | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $3,045 | $2,427 |
| Income needed vs. median | +57% | +59% |
| Five-year change | +11.1% | +25% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Warm |
| Largest metro | Seattle | 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 Washington or Montana?
Washington pays more: median household income $99,389 vs $75,340, with unemployment at 4.7% in Washington and 3.3% in Montana. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Washington's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Montana's in 0.
| Measure | WashingtonWA | MontanaMT | GapWA−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$24,049 (+32%) · US $80,903 | $99,389#7 of 50 | $75,340#35 of 50 | +$24,049+32% | $80,903 | WA |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.4 pts · US 3.95% | 4.7%#43 of 50 | 3.3%#9 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 3.95% | MT |
| GDP per capitaGap +$36,100 (+67%) · US $64,333 | $89,989#3 of 50 | $53,889#42 of 50 | +$36,100+67% | $64,333 | WA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.2 pts · US +1.91% | +3.2%#5 of 50 | +2%#21 of 50 | +1.2 pts | +1.91% | WA |
| Population growthGap +0.29 pts · US +0.51% | +0.92%#7 of 50 | +0.63%#16 of 50 | +0.29 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 | WA | MT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $201,709$219,863 in Seattle | $116,186$104,567 in Billings | WA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $256,858$279,975 in Seattle | $199,317$179,385 in Billings | WA |
| Lawyers | $160,128$174,540 in Seattle | $128,043$115,239 in Billings | WA |
| Civil Engineers | $113,237$123,428 in Seattle | $84,653$76,188 in Billings | WA |
| Registered Nurses | $100,733$109,799 in Seattle | $74,941$67,447 in Billings | WA |
| General & Operations Managers | $111,897$121,968 in Seattle | $90,166$81,149 in Billings | WA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $114,134$124,406 in Seattle | $92,892$83,603 in Billings | WA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $81,341$88,662 in Seattle | $63,372$57,035 in Billings | WA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $91,449$99,679 in Seattle | $74,913$67,422 in Billings | WA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $85,146$92,809 in Seattle | $68,716$61,844 in Billings | WA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $62,718$68,363 in Seattle | $47,868$43,081 in Billings | WA |
| Electricians | $71,567$78,008 in Seattle | $57,082$51,374 in Billings | WA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,972$71,909 in Seattle | $51,552$46,397 in Billings | WA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $72,161$78,655 in Seattle | $58,723$52,851 in Billings | WA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $57,121$62,262 in Seattle | $44,668$40,201 in Billings | WA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $72,237$78,738 in Seattle | $60,323$54,291 in Billings | WA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $61,461$66,992 in Seattle | $50,682$45,614 in Billings | WA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $60,319$65,748 in Seattle | $49,906$44,915 in Billings | WA |
| Construction Laborers | $50,324$54,853 in Seattle | $40,154$36,139 in Billings | WA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $40,081$43,688 in Seattle | $31,814$28,633 in Billings | WA |
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 Washington safer than Montana?
Washington is safer: 284 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 419 in Montana (FBI). Property crime runs 1,975 and 1,449 per 100,000.
| Measure | WashingtonWA | MontanaMT | GapWA−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -135 (-32%) · US 328 | 284#25 of 50 | 419#42 of 50 | -135-32% | 328 | WA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +526 (+36%) · US 1,535 | 1,975#46 of 50 | 1,449#26 of 50 | +526+36% | 1,535 | MT |
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.
- Kirkland, WA67 violent per 100K
- Whitefish, MT176 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Washington or Montana?
Montana scores higher for education (#12 of 50 vs #29), with high school graduation rates of 83.6% and 85.8%. Washington scores higher for health (#13 vs #22); life expectancy is 78.4 years in Washington and 77.3 in Montana.
| Measure | WashingtonWA | MontanaMT | GapWA−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 273 | 274#25 of 50 | 279#10 of 50 | -5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 257 | 259#17 of 50 | 261#11 of 50 | -1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.2 pts · US 85.62% | 83.6%#36 of 50 | 85.8%#30 of 50 | -2.2 pts | 85.62% | MT |
| Life expectancyGap +1.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.4#13 of 50 | 77.3#25 of 50 | +1.1 yrs | 76.9 | WA |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.5 pts · US 34.03% | 31.5%#13 of 50 | 31%#10 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 34.03% | MT |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.3 pts · US 7.6% | 6.5%#19 of 50 | 8.8%#36 of 50 | -2.3 pts | 7.6% | WA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +1 pts (+4%) · US 38.8 | 28#4 of 50 | 27#3 of 50 | +1 pts+4% | 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).
- Sammamish, WAeducation score 94.4
- 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: Washington #29, Montana #12. Health: Washington #13, Montana #22.
Are more people moving from Washington to Montana, or from Montana to Washington?
2,530 households moved from Washington to Montana and 1,936 moved from Montana to Washington in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 594 households for Montana. Movers to Montana reported an average income of $86,888; movers to Washington reported $63,208. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,631 people (±1,556) moving from Washington to Montana and 6,291 (±2,249) 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 | WashingtonWA | MontanaMT | GapWA−MT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +100,794 (+471%) | 122,184#9 of 50 | 21,390#41 of 50 | +100,794+471% | WA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +94,051 (+514%) | 112,345#40 of 50 | 18,294#9 of 50 | +94,051+514% | MT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +6,743 | +9,839#9 of 50 | +3,096#18 of 50 | +6,743 | WA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.5 | +1.2#18 of 50 | +2.7#6 of 50 | -1.5 | MT |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$10,780 (+14%) | $89,890#8 of 50 | $79,110#25 of 50 | +$10,780+14% | WA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$34,958 (+54%) | $100,122#7 of 50 | $65,164#40 of 50 | +$34,958+54% | WA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.4 | +1.2#24 of 50 | +5.6#6 of 50 | -4.4 | 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, Washington or Montana?
Montana is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | WashingtonWA | MontanaMT | GapWA−MT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +22 places | #32score 61 | #10score 79.4 | +22 places | MT |
| RetireesGap +7 places | #17score 66.7 | #10score 76.8 | +7 places | MT |
| Remote WorkersGap +15 places | #19score 54.8 | #4score 76.6 | +15 places | MT |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +22 places | #27score 53.3 | #5score 70.2 | +22 places | MT |
| Small BusinessGap +13 places | #23score 58.8 | #10score 71 | +13 places | MT |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +11 places | #13score 57.4 | #2score 81.7 | +11 places | MT |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesMontana (#10 vs #32)
- RetireesMontana (#10 vs #17)
- Remote WorkersMontana (#4 vs #19)
- Young ProfessionalsMontana (#5 vs #27)
- Small BusinessMontana (#10 vs #23)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsMontana (#2 vs #13)
Which cities stand out in Washington and Montana?
Washington has 26 tracked cities and Montana has 20; the largest are Seattle and Billings. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | WashingtonWA | MontanaMT |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Seattle754,195 people | Billings119,434 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Redmondscore 71.1 | Bozemanscore 64.2 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Kirkland67 violent per 100K | Whitefish176 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Yakimacost index 95.5 | Buttecost index 91.6 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Seattlewalkability 15.8 of 20 | Bozemanwalkability 15.3 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Pascocounty median AQI 23 | Bozemancounty median AQI 11 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Sammamish94.4% graduation rate | Whitefish92% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Sammamishmedian income $239,690 | Belgrademedian income $97,328 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Kirkland+3% growth | Sidney+2.7% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Washington and Montana compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Washington carries AA+ credit rating and Montana AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | WashingtonWA | MontanaMT | GapWA−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +21 pts · US 29.34% | 74%#4 of 50 | 53%#9 of 50 | +21 pts | 29.34% | WA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -8.3 (-17%) · US 29.6 | 41.5#41 of 50 | 49.8#44 of 50 | -8.3-17% | 29.6 | WA |
| Public land shareGap -1.4 pts · US 17.16% | 28.5%#12 of 50 | 29.9%#11 of 50 | -1.4 pts | 17.16% | MT |
| Mean travel time to workGap +7.7 min · US 25.2 min | 27.2 min#39 of 50 | 19.5 min#3 of 50 | +7.7 min | 25.2 min | MT |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3.4 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#7 of 50 | 0.8%#30 of 50 | +3.4 pts | 2.29% | WA |
| Workers working from homeGap +4.7 pts · US 12.28% | 16.4%#3 of 50 | 11.7%#30 of 50 | +4.7 pts | 12.28% | WA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +3.5 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#3 of 50 | 91.5%#39 of 50 | +3.5 pts | 92.67% | WA |
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 | WashingtonWA | MontanaMT | GapWA−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 95#25 of 50 | 95#20 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -0.5 pts · US 12.39% | 9.8%#27 of 50 | 10.3%#24 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 12.39% | MT |
| Pension funded ratioGap +9 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#12 of 50 | 73%#27 of 50 | +9 pts | 74.3% | WA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$900 (+33%) · US $3,506 | $3,650#36 of 50 | $2,750#23 of 50 | +$900+33% | $3,506 | MT |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2.4 pts · US +4.66% | +2.8%#40 of 50 | +5.2%#21 of 50 | -2.4 pts | +4.66% | MT |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Washington 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).
Washington vs Montana: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Washington is ahead on 17 of 51, Montana on 26, and 8 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | WashingtonWA | MontanaMT | GapWA−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +6,856,326 (+599%) · US 6.8 million | 8 million#13 of 50 | 1.1 million#43 of 50 | +6,856,326+599% | 6.8 million | WA |
| Median household incomeGap +$24,049 (+32%) · US $80,903 | $99,389#7 of 50 | $75,340#35 of 50 | +$24,049+32% | $80,903 | WA |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.4 pts · US 3.95% | 4.7%#43 of 50 | 3.3%#9 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 3.95% | MT |
| Population growthGap +0.29 pts · US +0.51% | +0.92%#7 of 50 | +0.63%#16 of 50 | +0.29 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$36,100 (+67%) · US $64,333 | $89,989#3 of 50 | $53,889#42 of 50 | +$36,100+67% | $64,333 | WA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.2 pts · US +1.91% | +3.2%#5 of 50 | +2%#21 of 50 | +1.2 pts | +1.91% | WA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -135 (-32%) · US 328 | 284#25 of 50 | 419#42 of 50 | -135-32% | 328 | WA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +526 (+36%) · US 1,535 | 1,975#46 of 50 | 1,449#26 of 50 | +526+36% | 1,535 | MT |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.2 pts · US 85.62% | 83.6%#36 of 50 | 85.8%#30 of 50 | -2.2 pts | 85.62% | MT |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 237 | 238#26 of 50 | 239#20 of 50 | -1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 273 | 274#25 of 50 | 279#10 of 50 | -5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 214 | 216#19 of 50 | 217#12 of 50 | -2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 257 | 259#17 of 50 | 261#11 of 50 | -1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.4#13 of 50 | 77.3#25 of 50 | +1.1 yrs | 76.9 | WA |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.5 pts · US 34.03% | 31.5%#13 of 50 | 31%#10 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 34.03% | MT |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.3 pts · US 7.6% | 6.5%#19 of 50 | 8.8%#36 of 50 | -2.3 pts | 7.6% | WA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$120,133 (+25%) · US $368,697 | $591,879#47 of 50 | $471,746#38 of 50 | +$120,133+25% | $368,697 | MT |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.3 pts · US +1.2% | -0.3%#43 of 50 | +2%#28 of 50 | -2.3 pts | +1.2% | MT |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$852 (+60%) · US $1,948 | $2,278#41 of 50 | $1,426#10 of 50 | +$852+60% | $1,948 | MT |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$35,692 (+30%) · US $100,006 | $155,542#46 of 50 | $119,850#38 of 50 | +$35,692+30% | $100,006 | MT |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +12.4 pts (+13%) · US 100 | 107#46 of 50 | 94.6#22 of 50 | +12.4 pts+13% | 100 | MT |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.3x (-5%) · US 4.6x | 6x#44 of 50 | 6.3x#47 of 50 | -0.3x-5% | 4.6x | WA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.13¢ (+1%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.11¢/kWh#8 of 50 | 12.98¢/kWh#6 of 50 | +0.13¢+1% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$8.63 (+96%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.62/Mcf#38 of 50 | $8.99/Mcf#2 of 50 | +$8.63+96% | $15.83/Mcf | MT |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.74 (+22%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.07/gal#47 of 50 | $3.33/gal#35 of 50 | +$0.74+22% | $3.32/gal | MT |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +8.4 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 104.4#44 of 50 | 96#14 of 50 | +8.4 pts+9% | 100 | MT |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$7,660 (+49%) · US $15,633 | $23,136#47 of 50 | $15,476#27 of 50 | +$7,660+49% | $15,633 | MT |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.74 pts · US 8.74% | 8.61%#22 of 50 | 7.87%#13 of 50 | +0.74 pts | 8.74% | MT |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.9 pts · US 5.46% | none#4 of 50 | 5.9%#30 of 50 | -5.9 pts | 5.46% | WA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.09 pts · US 1.02% | 0.88%#27 of 50 | 0.79%#21 of 50 | +0.09 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +9.51 pts · US 6.66% | 9.51%#48 of 50 | 0%#2 of 50 | +9.51 pts | 6.66% | MT |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 95#25 of 50 | 95#20 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -0.5 pts · US 12.39% | 9.8%#27 of 50 | 10.3%#24 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 12.39% | MT |
| Pension funded ratioGap +9 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#12 of 50 | 73%#27 of 50 | +9 pts | 74.3% | WA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$900 (+33%) · US $3,506 | $3,650#36 of 50 | $2,750#23 of 50 | +$900+33% | $3,506 | MT |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2.4 pts · US +4.66% | +2.8%#40 of 50 | +5.2%#21 of 50 | -2.4 pts | +4.66% | MT |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +1 pts (+4%) · US 38.8 | 28#4 of 50 | 27#3 of 50 | +1 pts+4% | 38.8 | MT |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +21 pts · US 29.34% | 74%#4 of 50 | 53%#9 of 50 | +21 pts | 29.34% | WA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -8.3 (-17%) · US 29.6 | 41.5#41 of 50 | 49.8#44 of 50 | -8.3-17% | 29.6 | WA |
| Public land shareGap -1.4 pts · US 17.16% | 28.5%#12 of 50 | 29.9%#11 of 50 | -1.4 pts | 17.16% | MT |
| Mean travel time to workGap +7.7 min · US 25.2 min | 27.2 min#39 of 50 | 19.5 min#3 of 50 | +7.7 min | 25.2 min | MT |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3.4 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#7 of 50 | 0.8%#30 of 50 | +3.4 pts | 2.29% | WA |
| Workers working from homeGap +4.7 pts · US 12.28% | 16.4%#3 of 50 | 11.7%#30 of 50 | +4.7 pts | 12.28% | WA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +3.5 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#3 of 50 | 91.5%#39 of 50 | +3.5 pts | 92.67% | WA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +100,794 (+471%) · US 78,682 | 122,184#9 of 50 | 21,390#41 of 50 | +100,794+471% | 78,682 | WA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +94,051 (+514%) · US 78,715 | 112,345#40 of 50 | 18,294#9 of 50 | +94,051+514% | 78,715 | MT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +6,743 · US -33 | +9,839#9 of 50 | +3,096#18 of 50 | +6,743 | -33 | WA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.5 · US +0.4 | +1.2#18 of 50 | +2.7#6 of 50 | -1.5 | +0.4 | MT |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$10,780 (+14%) · US $77,690 | $89,890#8 of 50 | $79,110#25 of 50 | +$10,780+14% | $77,690 | WA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$34,958 (+54%) · US $77,024 | $100,122#7 of 50 | $65,164#40 of 50 | +$34,958+54% | $77,024 | WA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.4 · US +1.1 | +1.2#24 of 50 | +5.6#6 of 50 | -4.4 | +1.1 | MT |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$26,741 · US -$11,758 | -$47,893#47 of 50 | -$21,152#33 of 50 | -$26,741 | -$11,758 | MT |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$4,311 · US +$31,418 | +$22,132#44 of 50 | +$26,443#38 of 50 | -$4,311 | +$31,418 | MT |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$7,015 · US +$35,970 | +$23,667#45 of 50 | +$30,682#37 of 50 | -$7,015 | +$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 Washington and Montana numbers say when read together.
Montana ranks higher overall
Montana leads 5 of the 11 categories to Washington's 4, with 2 even; Washington is ahead on environment and health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Washington is ahead on 17 and Montana on 26.
Montana is cheaper day to day
Montana's cost of living index is 94.6 against 107 in Washington (US = 100). The typical home costs $591,879 in Washington and $471,746 in Montana. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$47,893 a year after typical costs in Washington and -$21,152 in Montana.
Montana takes a smaller share in taxes
Washington collects 8.61% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack); Montana collects 7.87% (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
Washington pays more and is safer
Median household income is $99,389 in Washington and $75,340 in Montana, with unemployment at 4.7% and 3.3%. Violent crime runs 284 per 100,000 residents in Washington and 419 in Montana.
Moves between the two run about even
3,631 people moved from Washington to Montana and 6,291 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Montana fits families and retirees better
For families, Washington ranks #32 of 50 and Montana #10; for retirees, Washington ranks #17 and Montana #10.
Washington vs Montana: frequently asked questions
Is Washington or Montana better to live in?
Washington ranks #20 of 50 overall and Montana #7 as of the latest release. Montana is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.6 vs 107), has a 0.7-point lower tax burden, and has a 32% higher violent crime rate. Montana scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Washington cheaper than Montana?
Montana is cheaper than Washington: cost of living index 94.6 vs 107 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$47,893 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Washington, and -$21,152 in Montana. The typical home value is $591,879 in Washington and $471,746 in Montana.
Which has lower taxes, Washington or Montana?
Montana has the lower tax burden: 7.87% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.61% in Washington. Washington's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.88% and its combined sales tax 9.51%; Montana's are 5.9%, 0.79% and 0%.
Is Washington safer than Montana?
Washington is safer: 284 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 419 in Montana, per the FBI. Washington ranks #25 of 50 for violent crime and Montana #42. Property crime is 1,975 per 100,000 in Washington and 1,449 in Montana. The safest tracked cities are Kirkland, WA, and Whitefish, MT.
Are homes more expensive in Washington or Montana?
Homes are 25% more expensive in Washington: the typical home value is $591,879 in Washington and $471,746 in Montana. Buying the typical home takes about $155,542 of household income in Washington and $119,850 in Montana, against median incomes of $99,389 and $75,340.
Do people earn more in Washington or Montana?
Washington pays more: median household income is $99,389 vs $75,340 in Montana, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.7% in Washington and 3.3% in Montana. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Washington's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Montana's in 0.
Are more people moving from Washington to Montana or from Montana to Washington?
2,530 households moved from Washington to Montana and 1,936 moved from Montana to Washington in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 594 households for Montana. Movers to Montana reported an average income of $86,888; movers to Washington reported $63,208. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,631 people (±1,556) moving from Washington to Montana and 6,291 (±2,249) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Washington or Montana?
Montana is the better fit for retirees: #10 of 50 on the retiree index vs #17 for Washington. Washington has no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax 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 +$23,667 left after typical costs in Washington and +$30,682 in Montana.
Which is better for families, Washington or Montana?
Montana is the better fit for families: #10 of 50 on the families index vs #32 for Washington. Center-based infant care costs $23,136 a year in Washington and $15,476 in Montana. High school graduation rates are 83.6% and 85.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$47,893 after typical costs in Washington and -$21,152 in Montana.
Is Montana better than Washington?
Yes: Montana ranks higher than Washington overall, #7 of 50 vs #20, with a composite score of 75 to 61.8. Montana leads 5 of 11 categories and Washington leads 4, including environment and health. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Washington vs Montana.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (2,530 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).