Montana vs Wyoming: Which Is Better to Live In?
Montana ranks #7 of 50 overall and Wyoming #2 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 94.6 vs 92.7); Montana carries a 2.1-point higher tax burden and has a 57% higher violent crime rate. Wyoming scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 5.
- Violent crime rate is 57% lower in Wyoming (180 vs. 419 in Montana).
- Property crime rate is 28% lower in Wyoming (1,038 vs. 1,449 in Montana).
- Total tax burden is 26% lower in Wyoming (5.79% vs. 7.87% in Montana).
| Measure | MontanaMT | WyomingWY | GapMT−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -4.9 pts | 75.0#7 of 50 · A | 79.9#2 of 50 · A+ | -4.9 pts | — | WY |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1.9 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 94.6#22 of 50 | 92.7#16 of 50 | +1.9 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$14,852 · US -$11,758 | -$21,152#33 of 50 | -$6,300#20 of 50 | -$14,852 | -$11,758 | WY |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$99,892 (+27%) · US $368,697 | $471,746#38 of 50 | $371,854#27 of 50 | +$99,892+27% | $368,697 | WY |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.08 pts · US 8.74% | 7.87%#13 of 50 | 5.79%#2 of 50 | +2.08 pts | 8.74% | WY |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +239 (+133%) · US 328 | 419#42 of 50 | 180#5 of 50 | +239+133% | 328 | WY |
| Median household incomeGap -$192 (0%) · US $80,903 | $75,340#35 of 50 | $75,532#32 of 50 | -$1920% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +4 pts · US 85.62% | 85.8%#30 of 50 | 81.8%#42 of 50 | +4 pts | 85.62% | MT |
| Life expectancyGap +0.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#25 of 50 | 76.8#28 of 50 | +0.5 yrs | 76.9 | MT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +2,909 · US -33 | +3,096#18 of 50 | +187#26 of 50 | +2,909 | -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 Wyoming better to live in?
Wyoming scores higher overall: 79.9 to 75 out of 100, #2 of 50 against #7. Montana leads 5 of 11 categories, Wyoming leads 4, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | MontanaMT | WyomingWY | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +1.2 | 15% | 51.5#17 · B+ | 50.3#20 · B | +1.2 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap -25.2 | 12% | 60.9#36 · C | 86.1#6 · A | -25.2 pts | WY |
| Health12% of scoregap +7.5 | 12% | 58.9#22 · B | 51.4#29 · C+ | +7.5 pts | MT |
| Education12% of scoregap +1.8 | 12% | 67.1#12 · B+ | 65.3#16 · B+ | +1.8 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -7.6 | 10% | 68.9#26 · B | 76.5#18 · B+ | -7.6 pts | WY |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -19.9 | 8% | 59.5#24 · B | 79.4#1 · A+ | -19.9 pts | WY |
| Growth7% of scoregap +11.1 | 7% | 53.6#6 · A | 42.5#22 · B | +11.1 pts | MT |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +11.1 | 7% | 58.7#7 · A | 47.6#31 · C+ | +11.1 pts | MT |
| Livability7% of scoregap +11.4 | 7% | 61.9#1 · A+ | 50.5#3 · A+ | +11.4 pts | MT |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -24 | 6% | 71.7#3 · A+ | 95.7#2 · A+ | -24 pts | WY |
| Environment4% of scoregap +16.3 | 4% | 62.9#6 · A | 46.6#18 · B+ | +16.3 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 Wyoming?
Montana and Wyoming cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 94.6 vs 92.7 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $14,852 more a year in Wyoming after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | MontanaMT | WyomingWY | GapMT−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1.9 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 94.6#22 of 50 | 92.7#16 of 50 | +1.9 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.6 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 96#14 of 50 | 95.4#9 of 50 | +0.6 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.40¢ (-3%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 12.98¢/kWh#6 of 50 | 13.38¢/kWh#13 of 50 | -0.40¢-3% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$2.75 (-23%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $8.99/Mcf#2 of 50 | $11.74/Mcf#15 of 50 | -$2.75-23% | $15.83/Mcf | MT |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.21 (+7%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.33/gal#35 of 50 | $3.12/gal#17 of 50 | +$0.21+7% | $3.32/gal | WY |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$2,356 (+18%) · US $15,633 | $15,476#27 of 50 | $13,120#16 of 50 | +$2,356+18% | $15,633 | WY |
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 | WyomingWY | GapMT−WY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$8,063 | +$26,443costs $48,557 | +$34,506costs $40,494 | -$8,063 | WY |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$8,564 | +$17,000costs $58,000 | +$25,564costs $49,436 | -$8,564 | WY |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$14,852 | -$21,152costs $96,152 | -$6,300costs $81,300 | -$14,852 | WY |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$7,695 | +$30,682costs $44,318 | +$38,377costs $36,623 | -$7,695 | WY |
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 | WyomingWY | GapMT−WY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$7,632 | $32,352 | $24,720 | +$7,632 | WY |
| ChildcareGap +$4,712 | $30,952 | $26,240 | +$4,712 | WY |
| UtilitiesGap +$91 | $4,541 | $4,450 | +$91 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$67 | $10,812 | $10,745 | +$67 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$660 | $10,466 | $9,806 | +$660 | WY |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,690 | $7,029 | $5,339 | +$1,690 | WY |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Montana or Wyoming?
Wyoming collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 5.79% vs 7.87%. Montana has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Wyoming has no income tax, low property tax, low sales tax.
| Measure | MontanaMT | WyomingWY | GapMT−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.08 pts · US 8.74% | 7.87%#13 of 50 | 5.79%#2 of 50 | +2.08 pts | 8.74% | WY |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +5.9 pts · US 5.46% | 5.9%#30 of 50 | none#2 of 50 | +5.9 pts | 5.46% | WY |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.21 pts · US 1.02% | 0.79%#21 of 50 | 0.58%#12 of 50 | +0.21 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -5.56 pts · US 6.66% | 0%#2 of 50 | 5.56%#8 of 50 | -5.56 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 Wyoming?
Homes cost 27% more in Montana: a typical home value of $471,746 in Montana vs $371,854 in Wyoming. Buying the typical home takes about $119,850 of income in Montana and $95,729 in Wyoming; the median household earns $75,340 and $75,532.
| Measure | MontanaMT | WyomingWY | GapMT−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$99,892 (+27%) · US $368,697 | $471,746#38 of 50 | $371,854#27 of 50 | +$99,892+27% | $368,697 | WY |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.6 pts · US +1.2% | +2%#28 of 50 | +1.4%#33 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +1.2% | MT |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$106 (-7%) · US $1,948 | $1,426#10 of 50 | $1,532#17 of 50 | -$106-7% | $1,948 | MT |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$24,121 (+25%) · US $100,006 | $119,850#38 of 50 | $95,729#26 of 50 | +$24,121+25% | $100,006 | WY |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.4x (+29%) · US 4.6x | 6.3x#47 of 50 | 4.9x#34 of 50 | +1.4x+29% | 4.6x | WY |
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 | WY | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,427 | $1,913 |
| Income needed vs. median | +59% | +27% |
| Five-year change | +25% | +25.1% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | Billings | Cheyenne |
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 Wyoming?
Median household income is about the same, $75,340 in Montana and $75,532 in Wyoming, with unemployment at 3.3% and 3.4%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Montana's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Wyoming's in 7.
| Measure | MontanaMT | WyomingWY | GapMT−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$192 (0%) · US $80,903 | $75,340#35 of 50 | $75,532#32 of 50 | -$1920% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.3%#9 of 50 | 3.4%#10 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$18,634 (-26%) · US $64,333 | $53,889#42 of 50 | $72,523#12 of 50 | -$18,634-26% | $64,333 | WY |
| Real GDP growthGap +3.5 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#21 of 50 | -1.5%#50 of 50 | +3.5 pts | +1.91% | MT |
| Population growthGap +0.28 pts · US +0.51% | +0.63%#16 of 50 | +0.35%#32 of 50 | +0.28 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 | WY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $116,186$104,567 in Billings | $128,625$117,049 in Cheyenne | WY |
| Civil Engineers | $84,653$76,188 in Billings | $91,746$83,489 in Cheyenne | WY |
| General & Operations Managers | $90,166$81,149 in Billings | $96,752$88,044 in Cheyenne | WY |
| Lawyers | $128,043$115,239 in Billings | $134,581$122,469 in Cheyenne | WY |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $199,317$179,385 in Billings | $203,633$185,306 in Cheyenne | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $47,868$43,081 in Billings | $51,243$46,631 in Cheyenne | WY |
| Accountants & Auditors | $74,913$67,422 in Billings | $77,879$70,870 in Cheyenne | WY |
| Registered Nurses | $74,941$67,447 in Billings | $77,469$70,497 in Cheyenne | WY |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $92,892$83,603 in Billings | $95,089$86,531 in Cheyenne | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $68,716$61,844 in Billings | $66,726$60,721 in Cheyenne | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $60,323$54,291 in Billings | $61,856$56,289 in Cheyenne | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $51,552$46,397 in Billings | $52,707$47,963 in Cheyenne | Even |
| Electricians | $57,082$51,374 in Billings | $57,929$52,715 in Cheyenne | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $63,372$57,035 in Billings | $64,019$58,257 in Cheyenne | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $50,682$45,614 in Billings | $51,290$46,674 in Cheyenne | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $58,723$52,851 in Billings | $59,243$53,911 in Cheyenne | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $49,906$44,915 in Billings | $49,484$45,030 in Cheyenne | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $40,154$36,139 in Billings | $39,819$36,235 in Cheyenne | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $44,668$40,201 in Billings | $44,963$40,916 in Cheyenne | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $31,814$28,633 in Billings | $31,541$28,702 in Cheyenne | 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 Wyoming?
Wyoming is safer: 180 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 419 in Montana (FBI). Property crime runs 1,449 and 1,038 per 100,000.
| Measure | MontanaMT | WyomingWY | GapMT−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +239 (+133%) · US 328 | 419#42 of 50 | 180#5 of 50 | +239+133% | 328 | WY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +411 (+40%) · US 1,535 | 1,449#26 of 50 | 1,038#7 of 50 | +411+40% | 1,535 | WY |
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.
- Whitefish, MT176 violent per 100K
- Laramie, WY93 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Montana or Wyoming?
Montana and Wyoming are close on education (#12 and #16 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 85.8% and 81.8%. Montana scores higher for health (#22 vs #29); life expectancy is 77.3 years in Montana and 76.8 in Wyoming.
| Measure | MontanaMT | WyomingWY | GapMT−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 279#10 of 50 | 278#12 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 261#11 of 50 | 260#15 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +4 pts · US 85.62% | 85.8%#30 of 50 | 81.8%#42 of 50 | +4 pts | 85.62% | MT |
| Life expectancyGap +0.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#25 of 50 | 76.8#28 of 50 | +0.5 yrs | 76.9 | MT |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.5 pts · US 34.03% | 31%#10 of 50 | 32.5%#17 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 34.03% | MT |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.5 pts · US 7.6% | 8.8%#36 of 50 | 10.3%#43 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 7.6% | MT |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -8 pts (-23%) · US 38.8 | 27#3 of 50 | 35#10 of 50 | -8 pts-23% | 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
- Powell, WYeducation score 97
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, Wyoming #16. Health: Montana #22, Wyoming #29.
Are more people moving from Montana to Wyoming, or from Wyoming to Montana?
643 households moved from Montana to Wyoming and 700 moved from Wyoming to Montana in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 57 households for Montana. Movers to Wyoming reported an average income of $55,846; movers to Montana reported $60,089. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 532 people (±324) moving from Montana to Wyoming and 1,215 (±622) 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 | WyomingWY | GapMT−WY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +8,688 (+68%) | 21,390#41 of 50 | 12,702#49 of 50 | +8,688+68% | MT |
| Households moving outIRSGap +5,779 (+46%) | 18,294#9 of 50 | 12,515#2 of 50 | +5,779+46% | WY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +2,909 | +3,096#18 of 50 | +187#26 of 50 | +2,909 | MT |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.4 | +2.7#6 of 50 | +0.3#24 of 50 | +2.4 | MT |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$778 (-1%) | $79,110#25 of 50 | $79,888#23 of 50 | -$778-1% | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$3,995 (-6%) | $65,164#40 of 50 | $69,159#33 of 50 | -$3,995-6% | WY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.1 | +5.6#6 of 50 | +2.5#15 of 50 | +3.1 | 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 Wyoming?
Wyoming is the better fit for families, retirees, and small business; 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 | MontanaMT | WyomingWY | GapMT−WY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +8 places | #10score 79.4 | #2score 86.8 | +8 places | WY |
| RetireesGap +9 places | #10score 76.8 | #1score 85.6 | +9 places | WY |
| Remote WorkersGap +3 places | #4score 76.6 | #1score 83.6 | +3 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -3 places | #5score 70.2 | #8score 67.5 | -3 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap +4 places | #10score 71 | #6score 77.9 | +4 places | WY |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +1 places | #2score 81.7 | #1score 95 | +1 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesWyoming (#2 vs #10)
- RetireesWyoming (#1 vs #10)
- Remote WorkersEven (#4 vs #1)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#5 vs #8)
- Small BusinessWyoming (#6 vs #10)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#2 vs #1)
Which cities stand out in Montana and Wyoming?
Montana has 20 tracked cities and Wyoming has 20; the largest are Billings and Cheyenne. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | MontanaMT | WyomingWY |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Billings119,434 people | Cheyenne65,239 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Bozemanscore 64.2 | Jacksonscore 70.9 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Whitefish176 violent per 100K | Laramie93 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Buttecost index 91.6 | Gillettecost index 91.6 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Bozemanwalkability 15.3 of 20 | Torringtonwalkability 12.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Bozemancounty median AQI 11 | Rawlinscounty median AQI 8 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Whitefish92% graduation rate | Powell97% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Belgrademedian income $97,328 | Ranchettesmedian income $121,445 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Sidney+2.7% growth | Cheyenne+1.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Montana and Wyoming compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Montana carries AA+ credit rating and Wyoming AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | MontanaMT | WyomingWY | GapMT−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +20 pts · US 29.34% | 53%#9 of 50 | 33%#18 of 50 | +20 pts | 29.34% | MT |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +11.8 (+31%) · US 29.6 | 49.8#44 of 50 | 38.0#35 of 50 | +11.8+31% | 29.6 | WY |
| Public land shareGap -18.3 pts · US 17.16% | 29.9%#11 of 50 | 48.2%#6 of 50 | -18.3 pts | 17.16% | WY |
| Mean travel time to workGap -0.2 min · US 25.2 min | 19.5 min#3 of 50 | 19.7 min#4 of 50 | -0.2 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 0.8%#30 of 50 | 1.1%#23 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +2 pts · US 12.28% | 11.7%#30 of 50 | 9.7%#37 of 50 | +2 pts | 12.28% | MT |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.6 pts · US 92.67% | 91.5%#39 of 50 | 89.9%#48 of 50 | +1.6 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 | WyomingWY | GapMT−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#20 of 50 | 100#1 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | WY |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -34.9 pts · US 12.39% | 10.3%#24 of 50 | 45.2%#2 of 50 | -34.9 pts | 12.39% | WY |
| Pension funded ratioGap -4 pts · US 74.3% | 73%#27 of 50 | 77%#20 of 50 | -4 pts | 74.3% | WY |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,330 (+94%) · US $3,506 | $2,750#23 of 50 | $1,420#2 of 50 | +$1,330+94% | $3,506 | WY |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -3.3 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#21 of 50 | +8.5%#4 of 50 | -3.3 pts | +4.66% | WY |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Montana AA+, Wyoming AAA), 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 Wyoming: 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 16 of 51, Wyoming on 21, and 14 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | MontanaMT | WyomingWY | GapMT−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +555,941 (+94%) · US 6.8 million | 1.1 million#43 of 50 | 588,753#50 of 50 | +555,941+94% | 6.8 million | MT |
| Median household incomeGap -$192 (0%) · US $80,903 | $75,340#35 of 50 | $75,532#32 of 50 | -$1920% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.3%#9 of 50 | 3.4%#10 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.28 pts · US +0.51% | +0.63%#16 of 50 | +0.35%#32 of 50 | +0.28 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$18,634 (-26%) · US $64,333 | $53,889#42 of 50 | $72,523#12 of 50 | -$18,634-26% | $64,333 | WY |
| Real GDP growthGap +3.5 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#21 of 50 | -1.5%#50 of 50 | +3.5 pts | +1.91% | MT |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +239 (+133%) · US 328 | 419#42 of 50 | 180#5 of 50 | +239+133% | 328 | WY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +411 (+40%) · US 1,535 | 1,449#26 of 50 | 1,038#7 of 50 | +411+40% | 1,535 | WY |
| High school graduation rateGap +4 pts · US 85.62% | 85.8%#30 of 50 | 81.8%#42 of 50 | +4 pts | 85.62% | MT |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -5 · US 237 | 239#20 of 50 | 243#2 of 50 | -5 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 279#10 of 50 | 278#12 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -5 · US 214 | 217#12 of 50 | 222#2 of 50 | -5 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 261#11 of 50 | 260#15 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#25 of 50 | 76.8#28 of 50 | +0.5 yrs | 76.9 | MT |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.5 pts · US 34.03% | 31%#10 of 50 | 32.5%#17 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 34.03% | MT |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.5 pts · US 7.6% | 8.8%#36 of 50 | 10.3%#43 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 7.6% | MT |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$99,892 (+27%) · US $368,697 | $471,746#38 of 50 | $371,854#27 of 50 | +$99,892+27% | $368,697 | WY |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.6 pts · US +1.2% | +2%#28 of 50 | +1.4%#33 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +1.2% | MT |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$106 (-7%) · US $1,948 | $1,426#10 of 50 | $1,532#17 of 50 | -$106-7% | $1,948 | MT |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$24,121 (+25%) · US $100,006 | $119,850#38 of 50 | $95,729#26 of 50 | +$24,121+25% | $100,006 | WY |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1.9 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 94.6#22 of 50 | 92.7#16 of 50 | +1.9 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.4x (+29%) · US 4.6x | 6.3x#47 of 50 | 4.9x#34 of 50 | +1.4x+29% | 4.6x | WY |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.40¢ (-3%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 12.98¢/kWh#6 of 50 | 13.38¢/kWh#13 of 50 | -0.40¢-3% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$2.75 (-23%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $8.99/Mcf#2 of 50 | $11.74/Mcf#15 of 50 | -$2.75-23% | $15.83/Mcf | MT |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.21 (+7%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.33/gal#35 of 50 | $3.12/gal#17 of 50 | +$0.21+7% | $3.32/gal | WY |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.6 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 96#14 of 50 | 95.4#9 of 50 | +0.6 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$2,356 (+18%) · US $15,633 | $15,476#27 of 50 | $13,120#16 of 50 | +$2,356+18% | $15,633 | WY |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.08 pts · US 8.74% | 7.87%#13 of 50 | 5.79%#2 of 50 | +2.08 pts | 8.74% | WY |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +5.9 pts · US 5.46% | 5.9%#30 of 50 | none#2 of 50 | +5.9 pts | 5.46% | WY |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.21 pts · US 1.02% | 0.79%#21 of 50 | 0.58%#12 of 50 | +0.21 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -5.56 pts · US 6.66% | 0%#2 of 50 | 5.56%#8 of 50 | -5.56 pts | 6.66% | MT |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#20 of 50 | 100#1 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | WY |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -34.9 pts · US 12.39% | 10.3%#24 of 50 | 45.2%#2 of 50 | -34.9 pts | 12.39% | WY |
| Pension funded ratioGap -4 pts · US 74.3% | 73%#27 of 50 | 77%#20 of 50 | -4 pts | 74.3% | WY |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,330 (+94%) · US $3,506 | $2,750#23 of 50 | $1,420#2 of 50 | +$1,330+94% | $3,506 | WY |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -3.3 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#21 of 50 | +8.5%#4 of 50 | -3.3 pts | +4.66% | WY |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -8 pts (-23%) · US 38.8 | 27#3 of 50 | 35#10 of 50 | -8 pts-23% | 38.8 | MT |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +20 pts · US 29.34% | 53%#9 of 50 | 33%#18 of 50 | +20 pts | 29.34% | MT |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +11.8 (+31%) · US 29.6 | 49.8#44 of 50 | 38.0#35 of 50 | +11.8+31% | 29.6 | WY |
| Public land shareGap -18.3 pts · US 17.16% | 29.9%#11 of 50 | 48.2%#6 of 50 | -18.3 pts | 17.16% | WY |
| Mean travel time to workGap -0.2 min · US 25.2 min | 19.5 min#3 of 50 | 19.7 min#4 of 50 | -0.2 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 0.8%#30 of 50 | 1.1%#23 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +2 pts · US 12.28% | 11.7%#30 of 50 | 9.7%#37 of 50 | +2 pts | 12.28% | MT |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.6 pts · US 92.67% | 91.5%#39 of 50 | 89.9%#48 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 92.67% | MT |
| Households moving inIRSGap +8,688 (+68%) · US 78,682 | 21,390#41 of 50 | 12,702#49 of 50 | +8,688+68% | 78,682 | MT |
| Households moving outIRSGap +5,779 (+46%) · US 78,715 | 18,294#9 of 50 | 12,515#2 of 50 | +5,779+46% | 78,715 | WY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +2,909 · US -33 | +3,096#18 of 50 | +187#26 of 50 | +2,909 | -33 | MT |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.4 · US +0.4 | +2.7#6 of 50 | +0.3#24 of 50 | +2.4 | +0.4 | MT |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$778 (-1%) · US $77,690 | $79,110#25 of 50 | $79,888#23 of 50 | -$778-1% | $77,690 | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$3,995 (-6%) · US $77,024 | $65,164#40 of 50 | $69,159#33 of 50 | -$3,995-6% | $77,024 | WY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.1 · US +1.1 | +5.6#6 of 50 | +2.5#15 of 50 | +3.1 | +1.1 | MT |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$14,852 · US -$11,758 | -$21,152#33 of 50 | -$6,300#20 of 50 | -$14,852 | -$11,758 | WY |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$8,063 · US +$31,418 | +$26,443#38 of 50 | +$34,506#17 of 50 | -$8,063 | +$31,418 | WY |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$7,695 · US +$35,970 | +$30,682#37 of 50 | +$38,377#21 of 50 | -$7,695 | +$35,970 | WY |
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 Wyoming numbers say when read together.
Wyoming ranks higher overall
Wyoming leads 4 of the 11 categories to Montana's 5, with 2 even; Montana is ahead on environment and livability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Montana is ahead on 16 and Wyoming on 21.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 94.6 in Montana and 92.7 in Wyoming, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $471,746 and $371,854. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$21,152 a year after typical costs in Montana and -$6,300 in Wyoming.
Wyoming 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); Wyoming collects 5.79% (no income tax, low property tax, low sales tax).
Wyoming is safer
Median household income is $75,340 in Montana and $75,532 in Wyoming, with unemployment at 3.3% and 3.4%. Violent crime runs 419 per 100,000 residents in Montana and 180 in Wyoming.
Moves between the two run about even
532 people moved from Montana to Wyoming and 1,215 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Wyoming fits families and retirees better
For families, Montana ranks #10 of 50 and Wyoming #2; for retirees, Montana ranks #10 and Wyoming #1.
Montana vs Wyoming: frequently asked questions
Is Montana or Wyoming better to live in?
Montana ranks #7 of 50 overall and Wyoming #2 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 94.6 vs 92.7); Montana carries a 2.1-point higher tax burden and has a 57% higher violent crime rate. Wyoming scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 5.
Is Montana cheaper than Wyoming?
Montana and Wyoming cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 94.6 vs 92.7 (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 -$6,300 in Wyoming. The typical home value is $471,746 in Montana and $371,854 in Wyoming.
Which has lower taxes, Montana or Wyoming?
Wyoming has the lower tax burden: 5.79% 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%; Wyoming's are zero, 0.58% and 5.56%.
Is Montana safer than Wyoming?
Wyoming is safer: 180 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 419 in Montana, per the FBI. Montana ranks #42 of 50 for violent crime and Wyoming #5. Property crime is 1,449 per 100,000 in Montana and 1,038 in Wyoming. The safest tracked cities are Whitefish, MT, and Laramie, WY.
Are homes more expensive in Montana or Wyoming?
Homes are 27% more expensive in Montana: the typical home value is $471,746 in Montana and $371,854 in Wyoming. Buying the typical home takes about $119,850 of household income in Montana and $95,729 in Wyoming, against median incomes of $75,340 and $75,532.
Do people earn more in Montana or Wyoming?
Montana and Wyoming pay about the same: median household income is $75,340 vs $75,532, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.3% in Montana and 3.4% in Wyoming. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Montana's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Wyoming's in 7, with 13 even.
Are more people moving from Montana to Wyoming or from Wyoming to Montana?
643 households moved from Montana to Wyoming and 700 moved from Wyoming to Montana in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 57 households for Montana. Movers to Wyoming reported an average income of $55,846; movers to Montana reported $60,089. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 532 people (±324) moving from Montana to Wyoming and 1,215 (±622) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Montana or Wyoming?
Wyoming is the better fit for retirees: #1 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; Wyoming has no income tax, low property tax, low sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$30,682 left after typical costs in Montana and +$38,377 in Wyoming.
Which is better for families, Montana or Wyoming?
Wyoming is the better fit for families: #2 of 50 on the families index vs #10 for Montana. Center-based infant care costs $15,476 a year in Montana and $13,120 in Wyoming. High school graduation rates are 85.8% and 81.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$21,152 after typical costs in Montana and -$6,300 in Wyoming.
Is Wyoming better than Montana?
Yes: Wyoming ranks higher than Montana overall, #2 of 50 vs #7, with a composite score of 79.9 to 75. Wyoming leads 4 of 11 categories and Montana leads 5, including environment and livability. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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Why this pair is featured: bordering states.