Montana’s Living Wage Crisis: Barely Getting By

Ah, Montana, the land of majestic mountains, big skies, and... rapidly emptying wallets? Let’s saddle up and take a ride through the wild terrain of living wages in the Treasure State.

The Not-So-Golden Nuggets of Data

According to the MIT Living Wage Calculator, a single Montanan needs to earn $20.37 per hour. That’s about $42,370 annually, to cover basic expenses like housing, food, and transportation. Meanwhile, Montana's minimum wage will climb to $10.55 per hour in 2025, bringing in roughly $21,944 annually. That’s just over half of what’s considered livable. It’s no wonder some folks joke about living off the land. They might not have a choice soon! NOTE: I've considered raising chickens just to save money on therapy costs. I can simply talk to my chickens about my problems and they also make me food.

Inflation: The Uninvited Guest

Since 2021, Montana's cost of goods and services has jumped 22%, outpacing the national average. Even if your paycheck has grown, it’s likely being gobbled up by inflation faster than a grizzly at a campground potluck.

Housing: More Expensive Than Many Can Afford

The median home price in Montana is now $646,975, an 85% increase over the past five years. Renters aren’t catching a break either; the average rent for a one-bedroom sits around $724, though you’ll need a search party to find anything under $1,000 in Bozeman or Missoula.

Groceries, Utilities, and the Daily Grind

Between $297 per month for utilities and $331 per month for groceries, basic necessities are starting to feel like luxury items. And don’t even get me started on the price of steak. Montanans deserve better than a veggie burger at their next barbecue.

How to Survive the Big Sky Pinch

• Side Hustles: I am no stranger to side hustles. When someone offers you money for something you don't mind doing outside of work, you say "YES." I call BINGO every week downtown for extra dough.
• Budgeting: Maybe it is time to quit racking up a $200 bar tab every week.

Montanans are tough and resourceful, but even the hardiest among us deserve a break. Until then, keep laughing and stretching those dollars like your fishing line is snagged on a 20-pound trout.