Best overall value
Factors that influence moving costs from Portland to Missoula
What to know before moving from Portland to Missoula
Moving from Portland 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 Portland than in Missoula, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.
Check out how Portland compares to Missoula so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| Portland | Missoula | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,991 | $1,322 |
| Average home value | $542,001 | $544,475 |
| Average income (per capita) | $64,171 | $59,180 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $2,491 | $2,011 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $6,060 | $5,832 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.2% | 4.4% |
| Sales tax | 5.5% | 0.0% |
| State income tax | 5.8% | 6.75% |
- Rent prices in Missoula are 34% lower than in Portland, which means youโll have more money in your pocket each month.
- Home prices are the same in Missoula and Portland.
- Income in Missoula is 7.8% lower than in Portland, 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 19.3% lower than in Portland. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- The cost of living for a family in Missoula is 3.8% lower than in Portland.
- The unemployment rate in Missoula is 15.38% lower than in Portland.
- Youโll spend less on retail and restaurants in Missoula, since the cityโs sales taxes in Missoula are 100.00% lower than in Portland.
- State income taxes in Missoula are 16.38% higher than in Portland.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,421.92 in Missoula to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Portland.
How life is different in Portland vs. Missoula
| Missoula | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 77,757 | 68,408 |
| AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 5 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 45 | 62 |
| Bike friendliness score | 60 | 68 |
| Crime Index | 33.27 | 32.16 |
| Safety Index | 66.73 | 67.84 |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
- Missoula's population is about 14% greater than Portland.
- Missoula's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus Portland's higher score of 6.
- Missoula is less walkable than Portland with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Portland's 62 out of 100.
- Missoula has a bike-friendliness score 60 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Portland, which has a score of 68 out of 100.
- Missoula and Portland have a similar crime rate.
- Missoula and Portland are considered to be equally safe.
- Air quality in Missoula is good, and in Portland it's good.
Other things to consider for your Portland 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: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
- 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).Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Montana moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving permits: Montana doesn\โt require moving permits, but it\โs still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Youโll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Missoula. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry.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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.
Where to live in Missoula
Ready to relocate to "Garden City"? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Missoula.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Heart Of Missoula
- Lewis And Clark
- Farviews And Pattee
- Canyon River
- Rattlesnake
Best neighborhoods for families
- Lewis And Clark
- Rose Park
- Miller Creek
- Riverfront Lower
- Rattlesnake
Things to do in Missoula
Now that you've made the move to Montana, itโs the perfect time to explore Missoula. From local hotspots to hidden gems, thereโs something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Youโll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Missoula, such as the Fort Missoula Museum, Missoula Art Museum, Montana Natural History Center, and Museum of Mountain Flying.
- Outdoor recreation: The cityโs Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Rattlesnake National Recreation Area, Caras Park, and Blue Mountain Recreational Area โ along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Montana Grizzlies (NCAA) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Portland to Missoula?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Portland to Missoula. Youโll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Portland.
When is the cheapest time to move from Portland to Missoula?
Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Portland 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 Portland to Missoula take?
The 2,668-mile journey from Portland, ME to Missoula, MT typically takes seven to 21 days. Some movers in Portland 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.
