Moving from Billings to Denver (2026)

Denver has a COL index of 122 vs 89 for Billings (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 37% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$880 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
89122
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,200$2,000
per month
State tax
6.8%4.4%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,316$4,466
per month

Salary needed in Denver to match your Billings lifestyle

Based on the 37% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in BillingsEquivalent in Denver
$40K$54,831
$50K$68,539
$60K$82,247
$75K$102,809
$80K$109,663
$100K$137,079
$120K$164,494
$150K$205,618

Monthly budget at $75K — Billings vs Denver

ExpenseBillingsDenver
Monthly take-home$4,316$4,466
1BR rent$1,200$2,000
Groceries$369$388
Transport$42$114
Utilities$148$140
Internet$68$65
Left after essentials$2,489$1,759

Frequently asked questions

Is Denver cheaper than Billings?

No. Denver has a cost of living index of 122 vs 89 for Billings (100 = US average). That's about 37% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Billings to Denver?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Denver run about $880/month more than Billings. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Billings, you'd need roughly $102,809/year in Denver. 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