Can I Afford to Live in Spokane vs Billings on $80K?
Here's how a $80K/year salary plays out in both cities after taxes, rent, and core living expenses — based on Q1 2026 data.
Monthly budget breakdown
| Expense | Spokane WA | Billings MT |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home (est.) | $5,057 | $4,603 |
| 1BR rent | $1,400 | $1,200 |
| Groceries (est.) | $372 | $369 |
| Transport (est.) | $62 | $42 |
| Utilities | $115 | $148 |
| Internet | $62 | $68 |
| Left after essentials | $3,046/month | $2,776/month |
Frequently asked questions
Is $80K a good salary in Spokane?
At $80K/year in Spokane, your estimated monthly take-home is $5,057. With 1BR rent around $1,400/month, rent takes up 28% of your take-home. That's considered comfortable.
Is $80K a good salary in Billings?
At $80K/year in Billings, your estimated monthly take-home is $4,603. With 1BR rent around $1,200/month, rent takes up 26% of your take-home. That's considered comfortable.
Which city is more affordable on a $80K salary?
Spokane leaves you with more money after core expenses — $3,046/month vs $2,776/month in Billings.
Can I afford to live alone in Spokane on $80K?
Yes. At $80K in Spokane, rent takes 28% of your take-home, leaving $3,046/month after essentials. Most financial planners recommend keeping rent below 30%.
See the full cost-of-living comparison
Rent, groceries, taxes, transportation, and more — side by side.
Take-home estimates use simplified federal/state brackets and do not account for pre-tax deductions, 401(k), or local taxes. Data: Zillow, BLS, Numbeo · Q1 2026 · For general guidance only