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Whether you want to move immediately or whether you’re reviewing your options for a potential relocation in the future, Montana can bring you spectacular views and a much more relaxed pace of life. With slightly more than 1 million residents, Montana is one of the country’s most sparsely populated states. Commonly referred to as Big Sky Country, this state is an ideal place for living if you’re a lover of the great outdoors and adventure sports.

Not only is Montana home to Glacier National Park, the Lewis and Clark Caverns, and a portion of Yellowstone National Park, the “Treasure State” also has plenty of vibrant cities and historical attractions. If you’re intrigued to know more, you’ll want to learn all about the cost of living in Montana and the cost of renting an apartment in this one-of-a-kind state.

How expensive is an apartment in Montana?

You may be wondering, “Is it expensive to live in Montana?” “How much does it cost to living in Montana?” 

Finding out the cost of renting an apartment in Montana should be at the top of your to-do list when learning about the Montana cost of living. The average rental prices are much cheaper than the national average. For example, the average cost of renting a studio apartment in Montana is $566 per month, compared to the U.S. national average of $821 per month. For a one-bedroom apartment, the Montana monthly average cost is $641, while the national average is $930. The average cost of renting a two-bedroom apartment in Montana is $823. The U.S. national average is $1,148.

The cost of utilities is also an important consideration when learning about the cost of living in Montana. In the state’s largest city, Billings, the average monthly cost of standard utilities (electricity, heating, air conditioning, water, and garbage) is $114.87. The average cost of internet per month is $61.75, according to figures on figures on Numbeo.com.

How do I find cheap apartments in Montana?

Before you start looking for an apartment in Montana, you need to know what you’re seeking as well as what’s the cost of living in Montana. Make a list of essential factors such as the apartment’s desired size, the apartment’s ideal location, any amenities you would like it to include, and a reasonable budget. Consider whether you would be prepared to live with other people or opt for an apartment slightly outside of a city center as a way to cut monthly rental costs.

Once you’ve decided on these primary factors, it’s time for you to start your search. When trying to find a cheap apartment in Montana, keep the following tips in mind:

  • Consider looking for a roommate: Finding a roommate is often the best way to cut rental costs. Not only will you be dividing the monthly cost of rent with someone else, but you and your roommate can handle items such as utility and internet bills as a team. Make a checklist of what your ideal roommate would look like and attempt to find someone who fits your criteria. For example, would you prefer someone who is around your age? Would your ideal roommate be a nonsmoker? Would the person be male or female? Establish the basics and get looking.
  • Find out which areas are the cheapest: Some cities in Montana are more affordable than others, and you should find out which areas in the state have the cheapest rent. The five cities in Montana that are most affordable are Billings, Great Falls, Kalispell, Bozeman, and Helena.
  • Choose a middle-floor apartment: In many places, apartments located on the upper floors or ground floor of an apartment building tend to be more expensive than those situated on the middle floors. Renters often seek the views from the higher floors and the ease of access that an apartment on the ground floor brings. To reduce monthly rental costs, opt for a middle floor apartment.
  • Make the most of Zumper’s rental features: Zumper is a superb resource for renters looking for an apartment in Montana. The Instarent feature allows you to apply to rent your apartment without competition and get notified about your approval in as little as 24 hours. You can also browse all the current apartment listings in Montana through Zumper and receive instant notifications as soon as a new one becomes available.

You need to consider many factors when you’re trying to find a cheap apartment in Montana. With time spent planning and learning about the area, you should have no problem finding a suitable apartment within your budget.

What is the cheapest rent in Montana?

In Billings, which is home to 106,000 people, a studio apartment can be found for as little as $450 per month, while prospective renters can find a one-bedroom apartment for as low as $650 per month. A two-bedroom apartment can rent for as low as $800 per month.

Great Falls, which is home to 60,000 residents, is another attractive place to live in Montana. You can source a one-bedroom apartment for as low as $825 a month and a two-bedroom apartment for a minimum cost of approximately $950 per month.

Although apartments this cheap are available, remember that you may end up spending a little more money on an apartment you want because of renter competition. You may be able to negotiate rental rates with landlords, but some landlords may be firm about their apartment rental rates and cannot negotiate them with you. However, because Montana is such a sparsely populated state, you may get lucky and find the apartment you want for the rate you desire.

With this information to help you, you now know everything you need to know about the price of living in Montana. The “Treasure State” is a fantastic place to live, regardless of your age, lifestyle, tastes, or preferences. We hope you will experience all the appeals that Montana has to offer.

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