Moving from Billings to Bend (2026)

Bend has a COL index of 112 vs 89 for Billings (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 26% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$730 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
89112
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,200$1,900
per month
State tax
6.8%9.9%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,316$4,122
per month

Salary needed in Bend to match your Billings lifestyle

Based on the 26% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in BillingsEquivalent in Bend
$40K$50,337
$50K$62,921
$60K$75,506
$75K$94,382
$80K$100,674
$100K$125,843
$120K$151,011
$150K$188,764

Monthly budget at $75K — Billings vs Bend

ExpenseBillingsBend
Monthly take-home$4,316$4,122
1BR rent$1,200$1,900
Groceries$369$399
Transport$42$65
Utilities$148$125
Internet$68$68
Left after essentials$2,489$1,565

Frequently asked questions

Is Bend cheaper than Billings?

No. Bend has a cost of living index of 112 vs 89 for Billings (100 = US average). That's about 26% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Billings to Bend?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Bend run about $730/month more than Billings. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Bend to match my Billings lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Billings, you'd need roughly $94,382/year in Bend. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.

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