In 2021, we surveyed over 250 Montana renters to learn more about their cost of living. These are views of individual renters who have competed our survey and not necessarily those of MontPIRG.
This survey showed one thing clearly — renters in Montana are having a hard time. A majority of our respondents pay far more than the recommended 30% of their income on housing. It is not unheard of for renters to be paying upwards of $300 on application fees during their housing search. As one survey respondent wrote, “This is unsustainable.”
We can and must do better — renters have rights.
Percent of Monthly Income Spent on Housing
“I live in low income housing apartments. My apartment is 526 square feet and my rent is $790 + $30 for a dog = $820. Meanwhile to qualify I cannot make over $36,000/year. This means my rent is 45% my take home income. Not sustainable or productive for a thriving community. I’m a high school teacher with a master’s degree in secondary education.”
Total Spent on Application Fees Between Rentals
“I am currently homeless due to leaving an unsafe situation. Applying for apartments is agonizing and way harder than it ever used to be. I feel like I’m going to be homeless for longer than I need.”
Total Rent for the Unit
“I would like to add the insane cost of living in Missoula right now. I had to renew my lease as there is no where else to live. I expected an increase when I renewed but not a $350 one!”
Utility Costs
“Renting in Missoula is horrible, thanks for helping students like me out!”
