Overworked and Underpaid in Montana? You’re Not Alone. We See You
Living in Montana isn't all sunshine, rainbows, and mountaintops. For many residents in the state, financial struggles and living paycheck to paycheck have become an everyday reality.
That's right, Montana is far from the affordable place it once was. If you're been struggling, it's important to realize that you're not alone. In fact, most Montanans are having a difficult time getting by.
According to data from Career Karma, the average cost of living in Montana is about $3,500/month. Average monthly expenses and utilities have increased substantially in recent years, but wages in many parts of the state haven't kept pace with the rise in costs.
Why is Montana So Expensive?
One of the main reasons that living in Montana has become so expensive is that in addition to monthly expenses, people are paying for all of the amenities that the state has to offer, including mountains, clean rivers, and world-class hunting and fishing. The real estate market has exploded due to the fact that the housing demand far outweighs the supply.
Median household income in Montana is one of the lowest in the U.S. At $56,539, the state ranks #39 out of 50. The number of people that are homeless and living on the streets is higher than it has ever been. Most of the folks that you see living in an RV are working full-time jobs and are productive members of society, they just aren't making enough money to pay the astronomical housing prices in much of the state.'
Don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it. A lot of us are in the same boat and are just trying to live our best life and get bad. Unfortunately, that has become nearly impossible for most Montana residents.