Missoula, where the living costs can vary extremely within two blocks. I pay around $350 a month which for my setup is pretty nice. Transportation is basically free or of little cost and Missoula really does a good job including the whole city within constant bus routes. Stop by freecycles and build yourself a free bike. Volunteer at the farm up Rattle Snake and get food in return.

Best place for quality price shopping.... Orange street grocery store, or Pattee's market. (oh and the Good Food Store for bulk items)

If you are looking for the best areas with the best rent, just follow the bus lines away from campus, there are many surrounding neighborhoods that have easy access straight to town.

Feel free to ask any more questions.

Monthly expenses---

Rent: 2 bdrm house w/small yard, two garages, NW side of town ($600)

Gas heat and electricity: $50 (summer) - $150 (winter)

Water: $45 (winter) - $65 (summer), fixed rate

garbage: $12.50

House phone and dsl internet: $95

Student loans: $200

Netflix: $9

Gym membership: $25