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Billings, MT, United States
Capital City

Follows United States Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$2,400
Retiree Score
82.0
Safety Index
65.0
Healthcare
29 facilities

Rapid growth and a strong economy draw many to Billings, but the city's harsh winters and occasional severe weather are a persistent headache. With a population of 117,116 as of 2020, Billings serves as a major trade and distribution hub, accounting for over a quarter of Montana's wholesale business. However, the city's bureaucracy can be a challenge, as evidenced by the failed effort to pass a non-discrimination ordinance in 2014. Overall, Billings is best suited for those seeking economic opportunities in a mountain setting, but the extreme climate and occasional tornado risk may prove daunting for some.

Can I afford Billings, MT?

$

Billings, MT

You could save

600/mo

Savings Rate20%

Monthly Costs

Rent $1,350
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$1,050

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
20/100
Retiree Score
(i)
82/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
53/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets United States Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
65
Safety
29
Healthcare
100
Walkability
100
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $1
Bread (loaf) *$2
Eggs (12) $3
Rice (1kg) *$5
Chicken (1kg) *$12

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$26
Meal (Mid-range) $102
Cappuccino $6
Water (0.33L) *$2

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $173
Mobile Plan (mo) $49
Gym (mo) *$48
Cinema Ticket $15

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $810
1BR Outside (mo) *$813
3BR Center (mo) $1,440
3BR Outside (mo) *$1,337

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Widely Spoken
Expat Community
Medium
Top Neighborhoods
Downtown Billings, West End, Rimrock
Best For
energy workers, outdoor enthusiasts, retirees

Expat Life Notes

Billings is the largest city in Montana, a regional hub for energy, healthcare, and agriculture. It has a modest international community and benefits from being the most urban centre in a wide area.

Pros

  • ✓ Low cost of living
  • ✓ Regional economic hub
  • ✓ Outdoor recreation access

Cons

  • ✗ Limited diversity
  • ✗ Harsh winters
  • ✗ Smaller city amenities

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
—
Annual Rainfall
444 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
May, Jun, Sep

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Billings, MT

Click any question to expand the answer.

Billings, MT has a population of approximately 117,116 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $3,375 per month in Billings, MT, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1350/month.

The nearest airport to Billings, MT is SLC, approximately 622km away.

Billings, MT is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 65.0. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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