Missoula, Montana’s second-largest city, rests in the western half of the state and is home to 74,822 people. According to U.S. Census data, roughly 13% of the population is at least 65 years of age. Though Missoula’s senior population is lower than average due to the presence of the University of Montana boosting the college-age population, the city appeals to older adults who enjoy mild summers and proximity to the state’s most highly ranked hospital.
Assisted living care is often the choice of aging adults ready to transition from living alone in their own homes to a more social and supportive environment. It’s both less expensive and allows for more personal independence than nursing home care. On average, seniors in Missoula pay $4,650 a month for assisted living care, a total that’s slightly higher than state and national averages.
The following guide examines assisted living care costs across Montana and in some nearby cities. There’s also a list of resources that can help Missoula seniors get the most out of retirement in the city, as well as an overview of Missoula’s particular benefits and drawbacks for the age group.