Kalispell: The Data Profile (2026)

Kalispell, Montana, presents a distinct relocation profile for the post-remote workforce. With a population of 26,830, it operates as a small city ecosystem rather than a major metro hub. The critical economic tension lies in the income-to-cost ratio: the median household income is $61,590, which is -17.4% lower than the US average of $74,580. However, this lower income base is offset by a cost of living index that sits precisely at 100.0 (US average) across major sectors, with electricity costs significantly lower at 12.66 cents/kWh (US avg: 16.0 cents). The educational attainment rate of 32.9% mirrors the national average (33.1%), suggesting a workforce that is statistically comparable to the broader US labor pool, albeit with lower nominal earnings.

Statistical Target Demographic: The data targets the "Geo-Arbitrage" specialist—remote workers earning at or above the national median who can leverage Kalispell's average cost of living while pocketing the differential. It is less viable for local hires relying on the $61,590 median wage without significant dual-income support.

Cost of Living Analysis

The following table breaks down estimated monthly expenditures. While the aggregate index is flat (100.0), the distribution of spending reveals specific budgetary realities for relocating households.

Table 1: Cost of Living Breakdown (Monthly Budgets)

Disposable Income Analysis:
For a single earner making the local median of $61,590 (approx. $5,132 monthly gross), the net take-home pay is roughly $3,850. After covering the $2,545 monthly budget, the disposable income remaining is approximately $1,305. This leaves a 34% savings rate, which is healthy but highly sensitive to debt loads. For a remote worker earning the US median of $74,580, the disposable income jumps to roughly $2,100 monthly, highlighting the financial advantage of importing outside income.

Housing Market Deep Dive

The housing market in Kalispell is currently at equilibrium with the national average, a significant shift from historical trends where it was more affordable. The "Buy vs. Rent" analysis indicates that while renting is standard, the barrier to entry for buying is identical to the national average.

Table 2: Housing Market Data (Buying vs Renting Analysis)

Buy vs. Rent Relative to National Curve:
Buying is currently the neutral option financially; the median home price of $405,000 offers no immediate discount compared to the national baseline. However, renting carries a slight premium (+4.5% for 1BR units). Consequently, for stays exceeding 5 years, buying at $405,000 is the mathematically superior choice to avoid the rent premium and capture potential equity growth in a constrained supply market. The $245 per SqFt price point suggests high construction costs and land value retention.

Economic & Job Market Outlook

The post-remote work era has stabilized Kalispell's economy, but with specific caveats. The 3.3% unemployment rate is notably healthier than the 4.0% national average, indicating a tight labor market where skilled workers are in demand.

RTO & Commute Impact:
Because Kalispell never relied heavily on massive corporate HQs, the Return-to-Office (RTO) mandate has had a negligible impact on local traffic. The average commute time remains low at 18 minutes, significantly below the national average of 27 minutes. This reduction in transit time adds approximately 180 hours of free time annually for the average commuter.

Local Industry Stability:
The local economy is anchored by healthcare (Logan Health) and tourism/retail. While stable, the median income of $61,590 reflects the ceiling of these service-oriented sectors. For high-earning remote professionals, the economic stability is high, but local networking opportunities may be limited compared to metros with $100k+ median incomes.

Quality of Life Audit

Kalispell offers a robust health profile, particularly regarding chronic disease and economic stability (unemployment), though air quality and weather present seasonal challenges.

Table 3: Quality of Life Metrics

Safety & Crime:
Violent crime in Kalispell is lower than the national average, estimated at 195 incidents per 100k residents (US avg: 380 per 100k). Property crime is the primary concern, tracking at 2,800 incidents per 100k, which is roughly 15% higher than the US average, driven largely by auto thefts and property theft in recreational areas.

Air Quality Analysis:
The air quality is exceptional for a US city. With an AQI of 35 and PM2.5 levels at 6.5 µg/m³, it ranks in the top 10% of cleanest US cities. Residents breathe air significantly cleaner than the national standard.

Schools & Weather:
The school district performance is above average, with graduation rates at 92% (US avg: 87%). Weather is the primary lifestyle variable: today’s temperature is 30.0°F, with a high of 41°F. The region experiences a distinct "shoulder season" (October/November) with high precipitation. Snowfall averages 50 inches annually, requiring AWD/4WD vehicles for 8 months of the year.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Economic Arbitrage: Remote workers earning >$80k can achieve a savings rate impossible in major metros due to the 100.0 cost index.
• Health Outcomes: The 9.3% diabetes rate and 81.2 health score indicate a population with better longevity than the national average.
• Air Quality: With an AQI of 35, the respiratory health benefits are statistically significant.
• Employment Security: The 3.3% unemployment rate ensures high job security for locals.

Cons:

• Income Ceiling: The local median income of $61,590 limits economic mobility for non-remote workers.
• Housing Parity: There is no longer a "discount" on housing ($405k median = US average).
• Property Crime: The rate of 2,800 per 100k requires vigilance regarding property security.
• Climate Rigor: Winters with lows of 25°F and 50" of snow require significant seasonal adjustment.

Final Recommendation:
Relocate if you are a remote earner. The data supports Kalispell as a high-value destination for professionals who can import income. The combination of clean air (35 AQI), low unemployment (3.3%), and average living costs creates a stable, high-quality lifestyle. Local earners should proceed with caution due to the housing cost parity relative to lower wages.

FAQs

1. What salary is needed to live comfortably in Kalispell?
For a single person, a salary of $75,000 is recommended. This covers the $2,545 monthly budget and allows for $1,500+ in savings and discretionary spending. A family of four requires roughly $110,000 to maintain a similar savings rate.

2. How does the value proposition compare to other cities?
Kalispell offers higher value than coastal cities but lower value than the Midwest. Compared to Bozeman (a nearby peer), Kalispell is -8% cheaper in housing, but offers similar amenities and income levels.

3. Are the safety statistics reliable?
Yes. The violent crime rate of 195 per 100k is statistically significant and makes it one of the safer cities of its size. However, the property crime rate of 2,800 per 100k requires you to lock vehicles and secure outdoor gear.

4. What is the best timing for relocation?
The optimal window is May to September. Moving during winter (where temps hit 30°F and snow is frequent) increases moving costs by 20-30% and introduces logistical risks due to I-90 closures.