Cost of living in Kalispell
Kalispell, located in the picturesque state of Montana, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and small-town charm. Understanding the cost of living in Kalispell is crucial for anyone considering a move to this scenic locale.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the expenses you can expect, from dining and groceries to housing and transportation, 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 $40 on average, with a range between $15 and $50.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $80, with prices ranging from $80 to $120.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $13.5, with a range between $11 and $16.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $3 to $7, imported beer $5 to $7, cappuccino $4 to $7, and Coke/Pepsi $1.79 to $3.5.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $0.79 and $1.32 per liter, averaging $1.15.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $1.64 and $5.5, with an average price of $3.98.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $2.09 to $5, averaging $4.5.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $3.51 to $17.61 per kg, while oranges range from $2.84 to $13.21 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $1.52 and $4.83 per kg, and lettuce costs $1.29 to $3.99 per head.
Transportation
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $0.84 and $1.29 per liter.
Housing Costs
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $1200 to $1850, averaging $1450.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $1300 to $2000, averaging $1650.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $2400 to $2500, averaging $2450.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $2500 to $3100, averaging $2775.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $148.92 and $281.52, averaging $215.22.
- Internet - Internet services range from $65 to $80, with an average cost of $76.
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"
Kalispell presents a moderate cost of living with relatively high dining costs compared to other expenses.
Housing is a significant expense, especially for larger apartments, but options are available both in and outside the city centre.
Transportation costs are manageable, with gasoline prices being relatively low.
Grocery prices vary, with some items like fruits and vegetables showing a wide range in pricing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Kalispell offers a balanced cost of living with certain areas like dining and housing being more expensive.
Potential residents should consider their lifestyle preferences and budget accordingly, especially when it comes to dining out and housing choices.
Overall, Kalispell provides a beautiful setting with a cost of living that reflects its unique blend of rural charm and modern amenities.