The $100,000 Salary Analysis for Kalispell

This guide strips away the hype. $100k is a solid benchmark, but it doesn't go as far as you think once the government takes its share. We focus on Purchasing Power—what you actually keep—versus the Nominal Salary.

1. The Verification Test

Here is the math for a single filer with no dependents and the standard deduction. This is your reality check.

• Nominal Salary: $100,000 annually.
• Federal Tax: Approx. $14,000.
• FICA (Social Security & Medicare): $7,650.
• Montana State Income Tax: ~$4,900 (Based on MT's progressive brackets, effective rate ~4.9%).
• Total Deductions: ~$26,550.
• Net Pay (Take-Home): $73,450 annually.
  • Monthly Net Pay: $6,120.

2. Smart Budget (50/30/20)

Using the $6,120 monthly net pay, here is how a disciplined budget looks in the Flathead Valley.

• Needs (50% - $3,060):

  • Rent (1BR): $1,200 - $1,400. (Market average; luxury units hit $1,800+).
  • Utilities: $200 - $300 (Electricity, heating, internet).
  • Groceries/Food: $600 - $800.
  • Transport: $300 - $500 (Gas is high; insurance is moderate).
  • Result: You are comfortable, but a major car repair or medical bill breaks the budget.

• Wants (30% - $1,836):

  • Dining out, entertainment, hobbies.
  • Note: This category is easily eroded by Kalispell's higher-than-average consumer goods prices.

• Savings/Debt (20% - $1,224):

  • This is your emergency fund or retirement contribution outside of an employer match.
  • Verdict: Manageable, but not "get rich quick" territory.

3. Kalispell Tax Context

Montana is not a tax haven.

• Vs. No-Income-Tax States (TX/FL): You lose roughly $4,900 here compared to living in Austin or Orlando. In those cities, your take-home would be $78,350.
• Vs. High-Tax States (CA/NY): You save roughly $6,000 - $8,000 annually compared to Los Angeles or NYC. Kalispell offers a middle-ground tax burden with a "premium" cost of living due to geography and tourism.

4. FAQ

"Is $100k good here?"
It is a livable salary. It allows for a comfortable 1-bedroom apartment and moderate savings. However, it is not "wealthy" in Kalispell anymore. To buy a median-priced home ($500k+) on a single $100k income, you would need a massive down payment to keep the mortgage within that $3,060 "Needs" budget.

"Local income tax?"
None. Kalispell city taxes are limited to property and sales tax. Your tax burden is strictly Federal and State.