Factors that influence moving costs from Huntsville to Missoulatoggle

The cost of Huntsville movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Huntsville to Missoula might cost as little as $1,580, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $12,706.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Huntsville, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $1,378 to $3,539. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Huntsville to Missoula

Moving from Huntsville to Missoula means adjusting to a different pace of life โ€” and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Huntsville than in Missoula, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Huntsville compares to Missoula so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Huntsville Missoula
Average rent cost $1,409 $1,322
Average home value $266,736 $544,475
Average income (per capita) $60,959 $59,180
Cost of living (single person) $3,133 $2,011
Cost of living (family of 4) $4,140 $5,832
Unemployment rate 3.1% 4.4%
Sales tax 9.0% 0.0%
State income tax 5.0% 6.75%
  • Rent prices in Missoula are 6% lower than in Huntsville, which means youโ€™ll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Huntsville.
    Home prices in Missoula are 104.1% higher than in Huntsville.
  • Income in Missoula is 2.9% lower than in Huntsville, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Missoula include Walmart AT&T, Target, and Cognizant Technology Solutions.
  • The cost of living for a single person in Missoula is 35.8% lower than in Huntsville. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If youโ€™re moving your family to Missoula, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Missoula is 40.9% higher than in Huntsville.
  • The unemployment rate in Missoula is 41.94% higher than in Huntsville.
  • Youโ€™ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Missoula, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Missoula are 100.00% lower than in Huntsville.
  • State income taxes in Missoula are 35.00% higher than in Huntsville.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,925.63 in Missoula to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Huntsville.

How life is different in Huntsville vs. Missoula

Missoula Huntsville
Population 77,757 241,114
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 5 2
Walkability score 45 24
Bike friendliness score 60 40
Crime Index 33.27 42.55
Safety Index 66.73 57.45
Air Quality Good Good
  • Missoula's population is about 68% less than Huntsville.
  • Missoula's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus Huntsville's lower score of 2.
  • Missoula is more walkable than Huntsville with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Huntsville's 24 out of 100.
  • With a score of 60 out of 100, Missoula is more bike-friendly than Huntsville, which has a score of 40 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Missoula's crime rate is lower than Huntsville with a score of 33.27 compared to Huntsville's 42.55. This means that Missoula neighborhoods are safer than 33.27% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Huntsville neighborhoods are safer than 42.55%.
  • Missoula is considered to be safer than Huntsville with a safety index of 66.73 vs Huntsville's 57.45.
  • Air quality in Missoula is good, and in Huntsville it's good.

Other things to consider for your Huntsville vs. Missoula move

  • Weather: August, July and June are the most pleasant months in Missoula, these are the best months to plan to move while you might hold off moving between December and January as these are the least comfortable months in Missoula.
  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • State licensing: In Montana, local and intrastate movers need to have a valid Public Service Commission (PSC) number issued by the Montana Department of Transportation (MDOT). Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Montana moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving permits: Montana does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Missoula. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance.Opt for Released Value Protection, a no-cost option from movers with basic coverage. Movers assume liability for up to 60 cents per pound per item. For instance, if your mover lost or damaged a valuable painting weighing 20 pounds, you would only receive $12 (60 cents x 20 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for the full value of your items, discuss alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.

Where to live in Missoula

Now that you've decided to make the move to "Garden City", these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Missoula.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Heart Of Missoula
  • Lewis And Clark
  • Farviews And Pattee
  • Canyon River
  • Front Lower

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Lewis And Clark
  • Rose Park
  • Miller Creek
  • Riverfront Lower
  • Rattlesnake

Things to do in Missoula

Once youโ€™re settled into your new home in Montana, itโ€™s time to get out and discover what Missoula has to offer. No matter your interests, thereโ€™s something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: Missoula features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Fort Missoula Museum, Missoula Art Museum, Montana Natural History Center, and Museum of Mountain Flying.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Rattlesnake National Recreation Area, Caras Park, and Blue Mountain Recreational Area โ€” among other spots โ€” perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Montana Grizzlies (NCAA) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Huntsville to Missoula?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Huntsville to Missoula. Youโ€™ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Huntsville.

When is the cheapest time to move from Huntsville to Missoula?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Huntsville to Missoula, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Huntsville to Missoula take?

The 2,025-mile journey from Huntsville, AL to Missoula, MT typically takes six to 17 days. Some movers in Huntsville offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Missoula.

Helpful moving resources