Cap Rate for Montana (2026)
Montana (MT) Key Facts
Average Cap Rate
5.5%
Market Type
Balanced market
Median Property Value
$450,000
Average Annual Rent (1 B R)
$13,200
Estimated N O I
$7,920
How This Calculator Works in Montana
This cap rate calculator helps you evaluate the return potential of investment properties in Montana. Enter the property's value, annual rental income, and operating expenses to instantly calculate the cap rate. Compare your result against Montana's average of 5.5% to see how a specific property stacks up. The calculator is pre-loaded with Montana averages for quick estimates.
Montana Overview
The average cap rate in Montana is 5.5%, with median property values of $300,000 and average 1BR rents of $1,200/month. Montana is landlord-friendly, which reduces regulatory risk for investors. Without statewide rent control, Montana allows market-rate rent adjustments that can improve cap rates over time.
How Montana Compares
Montana's cap rate of 5.5% is near the national mid-range. Neighboring Idaho has a cap rate of 5.5% and Wyoming is at 6%. Investors often diversify across states with different cap rate profiles to balance cash flow and appreciation.
| State | Top Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Idaho | 5.5% | Average cap rate of 5.5% with median property value of $440,000. Balanced market. |
| Wyoming | 6% | Average cap rate of 6% with median property value of $340,000. Balanced market. |
| North Dakota | 6.5% | Average cap rate of 6.5% with median property value of $250,000. Buyer's market. |
Montana's average cap rate of 5.5% places it in balanced market territory. Nationally, cap rates range from about 3.5% in expensive coastal markets to 8% or more in affordable Midwest and Southern states. Higher cap rates indicate better cash-flow returns, while lower cap rates often come with stronger appreciation potential.
Tips for Montana Residents
- 1The average cap rate in Montana is 5.5%. Cap rate = net operating income / property value. This moderate cap rate in Montana offers a balance of cash flow and potential appreciation.
- 2When calculating cap rate in Montana, deduct all operating expenses: property taxes (1.1%), insurance, maintenance, vacancy, and management fees. Do not include mortgage payments—cap rate measures unleveraged return.
- 3Montana has no rent control, meaning you can raise rents to market rates and improve your cap rate as the local rental market appreciates.
- 4Compare cap rates across Montana neighborhoods. Urban cores often have lower cap rates (higher prices, lower yields) while suburban and secondary markets may offer better returns. A 1-2% cap rate difference on a $300,000 property changes annual net income by $3,000-$6,000.
- 5Montana's landlord-friendly environment reduces operational risk, which is already reflected in cap rates. Lower regulatory risk means investors may accept slightly lower cap rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
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