Moving from Bend to Billings (2026)
Billings has a COL index of 89 vs 112 for Bend (100 = US average). You'd pay about 21% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$730/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
11289
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,900$1,200
per month
State tax
9.9%6.8%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,122$4,316
per month
Salary needed in Billings to match your Bend lifestyle
Based on the 21% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Bend | Equivalent in Billings |
|---|---|
| $40K | $31,786 |
| $50K | $39,732 |
| $60K | $47,679 |
| $75K | $59,598 |
| $80K | $63,571 |
| $100K | $79,464 |
| $120K | $95,357 |
| $150K | $119,196 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Bend vs Billings
| Expense | Bend | Billings |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,122 | $4,316 |
| 1BR rent | $1,900 | $1,200 |
| Groceries | $399 | $369 |
| Transport | $65 | $42 |
| Utilities | $125 | $148 |
| Internet | $68 | $68 |
| Left after essentials | $1,565 | $2,489 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Billings cheaper than Bend?
Yes. Billings has a cost of living index of 89 vs 112 for Bend (100 = US average). That's about 21% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Bend to Billings?
On a $75K salary, moving from Bend to Billings could save roughly $730/month on core expenses. That's ~$8,760/year.
What salary do I need in Billings to match my Bend lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Bend, you'd need roughly $59,598/year in Billings. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Billings to BendBend vs Billings — full comparisonBend cost of livingBillings cost of living
Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only