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Billings, Montana

USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence

51
Overall Score

Billings, Montana, known as the "Magic City" due to its rapid growth since its founding as a railroad town in 1882, is the largest city in Montana and the commercial hub for a wide rural region. Nestled in the fertile Yellowstone River valley and framed by scenic sandstone cliffs known as the Rimrocks, Billings offers a blend of natural beauty and urban amenities. People are drawn to Billings for its laid-back, small-town attitude, resilient economy, and access to abundant outdoor activities. It serves as a major retail, medical, and energy center for much of Montana, northern Wyoming, and parts of North and South Dakota.

The city provides a balance of big-city conveniences and small-town charm, making it an attractive option for families and professionals. Billings is home to Montana State University Billings and offers a diverse range of public and private schools. Its strategic location also places it within a day's trip of famous sites like Yellowstone National Park, offering residents world-class fly fishing, hiking, and biking trails.

About Montana

Montana, known as "Big Sky Country," offers a peaceful, nature-centric lifestyle with vast open spaces and a strong sense of community. Its economy is primarily driven by agriculture, forestry, mining, energy production, and a growing service sector that includes tourism and outdoor recreation. While the cost of living can vary, with urban areas like Bozeman being more expensive, some smaller towns offer more affordable options, and the state benefits from no sales tax. Montana experiences significant climatic variations due to its diverse geography, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters, especially in the mountainous western regions.

123,723
Population
$68K
Avg Salary
95
Cost Index
51.4
Quality Score
How this 51/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
Component Readings used Points Weight Contributes
Safety Safety score: 40 / 100 40.0 30% 12.0
Affordability Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 95.0 50.0 25% 12.5
Economy & jobs Median household income: $73,712 Income needed to live here: $71,000 Unemployment rate: 3.3% 56.8 20% 11.4
Growth Population growth rate: 1.8% Job growth rate: 1.35% 58.5 15% 8.8
Business climate assessment Business climate assessment: 68 / 100 68.0 10% 6.8
Overall score 51.4

Provenance. These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as Gemini (Tier 2 (reasoned), q=85), last refreshed 18 August 2026. They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.

Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.

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Quality Scores

Business
68
Livability
77
Affordability
100
Growth
70

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Billings is generally lower than the national average, making it a more budget-friendly option compared to many other U.S. cities. According to one widely used index, the overall cost of living typically trends about 5% to 6% below the U.S. average, with a cost of living index around 95. This affordability is largely driven by housing costs, which are significantly more reasonable than the national median.

While housing is more affordable, some expenses like groceries and transportation can be slightly higher than the national average. For instance, grocery costs in Billings are about 3.3% higher than the national average. Utilities, however, tend to be more moderate, running approximately 18.3% lower than the national average. The absence of a state or local sales tax in Montana also contributes to overall savings for residents.

Average Rent
$1,390/mo
Groceries
$364/mo
Utilities
$306/mo
Restaurant meal (mid-range)
$38.00
Monthly groceries
$715.00
1BR Apartment (city centre)
$1,165.00
2BR Apartment (city centre)
$1,500.00
Monthly transit pass
$28.00

Salary Insights

Billings boasts a strong and diverse economy, serving as the largest retail, medical, and energy hub in the region. The city's job market is robust, with employment growing at a rate of 1.35% from 2023 to 2024. Major employers include healthcare providers like Billings Clinic and St. Vincent Healthcare, as well as Billings Public Schools and First Interstate BancSystem.

The top industries driving Billings' economy are healthcare, energy, agriculture, retail and wholesale trade, and education. The energy sector benefits from the region's coal, oil, and natural gas resources, while the fertile Yellowstone Valley supports a strong agricultural industry. The city's economic resilience and steady job growth make it an appealing location for newcomers seeking career opportunities.

The average salary in Billings is $68,328 per year. You would need approximately $71,000 to live comfortably.

Top Industries

Retail Trade Education Healthcare Agriculture Energy

Climate

🌡️
Avg Temp
☀️
Summer High
❄️
Winter Low
🌧️
"
Annual Rain
💧
%
Humidity
🌤️
Sunny Days

Transport

Getting around Billings is primarily car-dependent, with most errands requiring a vehicle. The city has an average Walk Score of 35, indicating it is a car-dependent city, and a Transit Score of 25, ranking it low for public transportation options compared to other U.S. cities. However, Billings does have a Bike Score of 63, encouraging an active lifestyle for cyclists.

Despite the car-centric layout, residents benefit from relatively short commute times, averaging around 16.5 to 19 minutes. The city's public transit system, MET Transit, offers bus services with affordable monthly passes, connecting various parts of the city, including the hospital corridor and downtown. Interstate 90 runs east to west through the city, making regional travel straightforward.

17 min
Avg Commute
25.00/10
Transit Score
35.00/10
Walkability
High
Car Dependency

Pros & Cons

Advantages
Billings offers a relatively low cost of living, with an index of 95 compared to the U.S. average of 100.
The city boasts a strong and resilient economy, driven by key sectors like healthcare, energy, and agriculture, with a job growth rate of 1.35% (2023-2024).
Residents benefit from advanced healthcare services, including the Billings Clinic, recognized as the best hospital in Southeast Montana.
Billings provides abundant outdoor recreational opportunities, with access to the Yellowstone River, Rimrocks, and proximity to Yellowstone National Park.
The average commute time is short, around 16.5 minutes, contributing to a more relaxed daily rhythm.
Drawbacks
The city has a low Transit Score of 25 and a Walk Score of 35, indicating high car dependency and limited public transportation options.
Safety scores are relatively low (40/100), and residents report lower feelings of safety in downtown areas compared to other communities.
Some everyday expenses, such as groceries and transportation, are slightly higher than the national average.
Winters can be cold and snowy, requiring preparation for harsh weather conditions.
While the city has a bike score of 63, it does not have many dedicated bike lanes.

Questions about Billings

What people ask about living in and moving to Billings, Montana.

How does Billings compare to the national average in terms of living expenses? Cost of Living 1 answer

Billings has a cost of living index of 95, which is slightly below the national average of 100. This means that, on average, goods and services such as groceries, utilities, and transportation are a bit cheaper than in the U.S. overall. However, the average rent is around $1,390 per month, which is comparable to many mid-sized cities. When budgeting, consider that while everyday costs are lower, housing remains a sig...

What are typical rent prices for a two-bedroom apartment in Billings? Housing 1 answer

The average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Billings is about $1,390 per month. Prices can vary based on location, amenities, and proximity to downtown. Apartments closer to the city center or with newer amenities may be slightly higher, while those on the outskirts might be lower. Look at local rental platforms and neighborhood guides to compare listings. Also, consider the lease terms, utilities included, and a...

What healthcare facilities are in Billings? Healthcare 1 answer

Billings hosts several hospitals and medical centers that offer a range of services from emergency care to specialized treatments. These facilities are equipped with modern technology and staffed by experienced clinicians. They also provide outpatient clinics, urgent care, and diagnostic labs. To find the nearest hospital, use the city’s health department website or a local directory that lists medical centers by loc...

What are popular outdoor activities near Billings? Things to Do 1 answer

Billings is surrounded by scenic landscapes, including rivers, parks, and foothills. Popular outdoor pursuits include hiking, biking, and kayaking along nearby waterways. There are also several state parks and natural areas within a short drive that offer trails of varying difficulty. Seasonal activities like fishing, hunting, and wildlife viewing are common, especially during spring and fall. Local recreation center...

What is the overall vibe of Billings for newcomers? General 1 answer

Billings combines a small‑town feel with the conveniences of a mid‑size city. Residents often describe it as friendly and community-oriented, with a strong sense of local pride. The city hosts various cultural events, farmers markets, and festivals throughout the year, which help newcomers integrate. The local economy is diverse, with opportunities in healthcare, education, and growing tech sectors. Engaging with com...

How are the public schools rated in Billings? Schools & Education 1 answer

Billings offers a mix of elementary, middle, and high schools with varying performance levels. Some schools consistently receive above-average ratings, while others are in the middle range. The local school district provides detailed performance reports, including test scores and graduation rates, which can be found on the district’s website. Additionally, community forums and parent groups often share firsthand expe...

What should I know about moving my furniture into Billings? Moving Here 1 answer

When moving into Billings, consider the size of your rental unit and the layout of the street. Many residential areas have narrow driveways and limited parking, so arranging a moving truck or a local moving service that can navigate tight spaces is advisable. Check for any HOA or city regulations regarding delivery times and parking permits. Planning your move during off-peak hours can reduce traffic delays and make...

Is Billings considered a safe city for families? Safety 1 answer

Billings has a safety score of 40 out of 100, which is below the national average. This indicates that crime rates are higher than in many other U.S. cities. However, safety can vary significantly by neighborhood. Researching specific areas, checking local crime statistics, and speaking with residents can provide a clearer picture. Visiting neighborhoods at different times of day and reviewing community watch reports...

What public transportation options are available in Billings? Getting Around 1 answer

Billings offers a city transit authority that operates bus routes covering most of the metropolitan area. Buses run on a regular schedule, with routes connecting downtown, residential neighborhoods, and key commercial districts. The transit system provides fare information, route maps, and real-time tracking through its official website. For longer commutes, consider ride-share services or carpooling options that are...

What is the average salary for a software engineer in Billings? Jobs & Economy 1 answer

The average salary in Billings across all occupations is $68,328 per year. For specialized roles like software engineering, salaries can range from about $70,000 to $90,000 depending on experience and company size. The local tech scene is growing, with several firms and startups seeking talent. To get a precise figure, review job postings in the area, noting the salary ranges listed, and consider networking with loca...

Some answers here were drafted as a starting point and may be out of date. Live in Billings? Add your own.

Frequently Asked Questions

Urblytica benchmarks its Cost of Living Index against a United States national average baseline of 100. A score of 115 means a city is approximately 15% more expensive than the national average, while a score of 85 indicates it is 15% more affordable. This composite calculation is weighted across six primary expenditure categories: housing, utilities, grocery items, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods.

Urblytica aggregates housing data from multiple authoritative sources, including Multiple Listing Service (MLS) feeds, municipal property tax registries, the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (ACS), and verified historical deed transactions. This multi-tier aggregation ensures precision in tracking median home values and rental rates.

A municipality must meet minimum data-density thresholds—including consistent reporting population samples from the U.S. Census and active residential or commercial real estate transaction feeds—to ensure statistical significance before a complete scoring profile is published.

When primary agencies (such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics or U.S. Census Bureau) issue historical data revisions or benchmark corrections, Urblytica's data pipeline automatically re-indexes affected historical archives to maintain longitudinal trend accuracy.

U.S. affordability calculations incorporate federal income tax brackets, state-specific income tax rates, and local municipal tax variations to evaluate the true net tax drag on median household earnings across different states and cities.

Local county and municipal property tax millage rates are factored directly into the housing component of the cost-of-living index to reflect recurring annual tax burdens for homeowners.

The platform aggregates state sales taxes alongside county and city surtaxes to measure consumer basket purchasing power parity accurately across different retail jurisdictions.

Utility calculations apply regional seasonal consumption weightings, incorporating high summer air conditioning loads in southern states and heavy winter heating demands in northern states.

The index tracks average out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, routine outpatient visit costs, and regional health insurance premium benchmarks published by federal health agencies.

Educational metrics aggregate state standardized testing benchmarks, student-to-teacher ratios, high school graduation rates, and per-pupil expenditure data published by state departments of education.
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