Cost of living in Bozeman
Bozeman, located in the scenic state of Montana, is known for its vibrant community and stunning natural landscapes. Understanding the cost of living in Bozeman is crucial for both current residents and those considering a move to this charming city.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the expenses you can expect, from dining and groceries to housing and utilities, helping you make informed financial decisions.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $22 on average, with a range between $16 and $40.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $100, with prices ranging from $80 to $120.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $12.5, with a range between $12 and $14.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $6 to $8, imported beer $6 to $10, cappuccino $5 to $7, and Coke/Pepsi $1.5 to $7.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $0.87 and $1.85 per liter, averaging $0.99.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $2.91 and $4.24, with an average price of $3.31.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $2.5 to $6, averaging $4.9.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $3.97 to $5.73 per kg, while oranges range from $2.16 to $4.41 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $1.19 and $2.2 per kg, and lettuce costs $1.5 to $2.5 per head.
Transportation
- Public Transport (One-Way Ticket) - Public transport options are limited, with no cost data available for one-way tickets or monthly passes.
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $0.79 and $0.96 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares start at $2.81, with no additional cost data available for distance or waiting time.
Housing Costs
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $1800 to $2500, averaging $2116.67.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $1700 to $2200, averaging $1860.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $3250 to $4000, averaging $3741.67.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $2900 to $4000, averaging $2980.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (City Centre) - The price per square meter to buy an apartment in the city centre ranges from $5381.96 to $8611.13, averaging $6494.36.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, the price per square meter ranges from $4843.76 to $5490, averaging $5166.88.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $105.68 and $300, averaging $128.13.
- Internet - Internet services range from $70 to $85, with an average cost of $77.5.
Cost of Living Rankings
The cost of living indices for the United States are compared to New York City (NYC), which serves as the baseline with an index of 100. These provide insights into the relative cost of living in different cities in United States, covering factors like consumer goods, rent, and purchasing power.
Cost of Living Data
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"Key Takeaways"
Bozeman offers a unique blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, but this comes with a relatively high cost of living compared to other cities in Montana.
Housing is a significant expense, with rental prices in the city centre being particularly high.
Dining out can also be costly, especially at mid-range restaurants.
While public transportation options are limited, owning a car is a practical necessity, with gasoline prices being relatively affordable.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Bozeman, MT, presents a higher cost of living, driven largely by housing and dining expenses.
Prospective residents should budget carefully, especially if planning to live in the city centre.
Despite the costs, Bozeman's lifestyle and natural surroundings offer a compelling reason for many to call it home.