Factors that influence moving costs from Pittsburgh to Missoulatoggle

The cost of Pittsburgh movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Pittsburgh to Missoula might cost as little as $1,520, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $12,230.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Pittsburgh , 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 $1,349 to $3,501. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Pittsburgh to Missoula

Moving from Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh than in Missoula, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

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

Pittsburgh Missoula
Average rent cost $1,500 $1,322
Average home value $222,451 $544,475
Average income (per capita) $54,306 $59,180
Cost of living (single person) $2,129 $2,011
Cost of living (family of 4) $5,011 $5,832
Unemployment rate 7.1% 4.4%
Sales tax 7.0% 0.0%
State income tax 3.07% 6.75%
  • Rent prices in Missoula are 12% lower than in Pittsburgh , 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 Pittsburgh .
    Home prices in Missoula are 144.8% higher than in Pittsburgh .
  • Income in Missoula is 9.0% higher than in Pittsburgh , so you could earn more 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 5.5% lower than in Pittsburgh . 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 16.4% higher than in Pittsburgh .
  • The unemployment rate in Missoula is 38.03% lower than in Pittsburgh .
  • Youโ€™ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Missoula, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Missoula are 100.00% lower than in Pittsburgh .
  • State income taxes in Missoula are 119.87% higher than in Pittsburgh .

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,833.72 in Missoula to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Pittsburgh .

How life is different in Pittsburgh vs. Missoula

Missoula Pittsburgh
Population 77,757 303,255
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 5 8
Walkability score 45 62
Bike friendliness score 60 55
Crime Index 33.27 37.74
Safety Index 66.73 62.26
Air Quality Good Good
  • Missoula's population is about 74% less than Pittsburgh .
  • Missoula's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus Pittsburgh 's higher score of 8.
  • Missoula is less walkable than Pittsburgh with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Pittsburgh 's 62 out of 100.
  • With a score of 60 out of 100, Missoula is more bike-friendly than Pittsburgh , which has a score of 55 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 Pittsburgh with a score of 33.27 compared to Pittsburgh 's 37.74. This means that Missoula neighborhoods are safer than 33.27% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Pittsburgh neighborhoods are safer than 37.74%.
  • Missoula is considered to be safer than Pittsburgh with a safety index of 66.73 vs Pittsburgh 's 62.26.
  • Air quality in Missoula is good, and in Pittsburgh it's good.

Other things to consider for your Pittsburgh 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: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulationsโ€”some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • 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). Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Montana moving company\โ€™s license by visiting the state'spublic utilities commission
  • Moving permits: You wonโ€™t need a moving permit in Montana, though it\โ€™s smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly toMissoula Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations.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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Missoula

Now that youโ€™ve chosen "Garden City" as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Missoula to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Lewis And Clark
  • Farviews And Pattee
  • Canyon River
  • Front Lower
  • 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, itโ€™s the perfect time to explore Missoula. From local hotspots to hidden gems, thereโ€™s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Youโ€™ll 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 cityโ€™s 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 Pittsburgh to Missoula?

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

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

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh to Missoula take?

The 2,049-mile journey from Pittsburgh , PA to Missoula, MT typically takes six to 17 days. Some movers in Pittsburgh 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