Missoula, MT Salary Guide: The Real Value of a $100,000 Income

In Missoula, the $100,000 salary benchmark isn't just a number—it's a gateway to financial comfort that feels impossible in coastal markets. But the "sticker price" of your paycheck and the money that actually hits your bank account are two different beasts.

Here is the data-driven breakdown of your purchasing power in Western Montana.

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The Verification Test ($100,000 Analysis)

Let's strip away the hype and run the raw numbers. You signed a contract for a $100,000 annual salary. Before you start spending, the government takes its slice.

The Gross vs. Net Breakdown:

• Sticker Price: $100,000
• Federal Tax: -$13,614
• FICA Tax: -$7,650
• State Tax (MT): -$4,500
• Take Home Pay: $74,236

The Analysis:
Your "real" salary is $74,236. You are losing roughly 26% of your gross income to taxes. While Montana is not a tax-free haven, the state income tax is a flat rate structure that keeps the damage manageable compared to high-tax states like California or New York. You are trading a higher tax burden for zero local taxes and zero sales tax on many essentials.

Result: You are effectively earning $6,186 per month in spendable cash.

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Smart Budget Breakdown (50/30/20 Rule)

With $6,186 landing in your account monthly, the standard 50/30/20 budget rule offers a roadmap. Here is how that translates to life in Missoula:

Needs ($3,093/month)

This bucket covers the essentials: Rent, utilities, insurance, and groceries.

• Rent Reality: Missoula's rental market is tight. However, $3,093 is more than enough to secure a high-end one-bedroom or a solid two-bedroom apartment near the University District or downtown. You aren't priced out; you have leverage here.
• Purchasing Power: You are comfortably above the "rent burden" threshold. You can pay rent and still have funds left for utilities and high-quality groceries without panic.

Wants ($1,856/month)

This is your lifestyle fund: Dining out, skiing at Snowbowl, concerts, and gear.

• The Lifestyle: Missoula is an "experience" city. With nearly $1,800 in disposable income, you can hit the breweries on Main Street, maintain a gym membership, and take weekend trips without budget anxiety.

Savings ($1,237/month)

This is where wealth is built.

• Wealth Creation: Saving $1,237 monthly puts you on track to max out a Roth IRA and contribute heavily to a 401(k). In a city with a lower cost of living, this amount of savings accelerates your path to financial independence significantly faster than in Austin or NYC.

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Missoula Taxes vs. The Competition

How does a $100k salary in Missoula stack up against the heavy hitters?

The NYC Scenario:
In New York City, a $100k salary is decimated by city, state, and federal taxes. Your take-home pay would plummet to roughly $66,000.

• Missoula Advantage: You take home $8,000 more per year in Missoula than you would in NYC. That is an extra $666 in your pocket every single month, just for living in Montana.

The Austin Scenario:
Texas has no state income tax, which looks attractive on paper. However, Texas imposes high property taxes and high sales taxes (over 8% in Austin).

• Missoula Advantage: While Montana hits you with income tax, the lack of sales tax on groceries and services in Missoula balances the ledger. You get the tax hit upfront, rather than nickel-and-dimed on every purchase.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the income tax rate in Missoula?
A: Missoula residents pay a flat 6.75% state income tax on taxable income over $20,500 (single filers). There are no local city taxes added on top of this.

Q: Is $100k a good salary in Missoula?
A: Yes. A $100k salary places you significantly above the median household income for the area. With a take-home pay of $74,236, you can afford a modern apartment, an active social life, and still invest over $1,200 monthly.

Q: Does Missoula have a local city tax?
A: No. While you pay state taxes, there is no additional municipal income tax levied by the City of Missoula.

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Disclaimer: This guide estimates net pay based on standard deductions and the provided scenario. Calculations are based on IRS 2026 tax brackets, Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) rates, and Montana State Comptroller tax schedules. Actual withholdings may vary based on specific W-4 elections and benefits.