Moving from Billings to Raleigh (2026)

Raleigh has a COL index of 101 vs 89 for Billings (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 13% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$356 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
89 โ†’ 101
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,200 โ†’ $1,700
per month
State tax
6.8% โ†’ 4.5%
income tax
COL difference
89 โ†’ 101
13% more expensive

Salary needed in Raleigh to match your Billings lifestyle

Based on the 13% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in BillingsEquivalent in Raleigh
$40K$45,393
$50K$56,742
$60K$68,090
$75K$85,112
$80K$90,787
$100K$113,483
$120K$136,180
$150K$170,225

๐Ÿ’ต Household income (before tax)

$75K
$
$30K$300K
Pay ~$518/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Billings vs Raleigh

ExpenseBillingsRaleigh
Monthly take-home$4,316$4,459
1BR rent$1,200$1,700
Groceries$369$365
Transport$42$70
Utilities$148$150
Internet$68$60
Left after essentials$2,489$2,114

Frequently asked questions

Is Raleigh cheaper than Billings?

No. Raleigh has a cost of living index of 101 vs 89 for Billings (100 = US average). That's about 13% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Billings to Raleigh?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Raleigh run about $356/month more than Billings. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Billings, you'd need roughly $85,112/year in Raleigh. This is based on the overall COL index difference.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates. Zillow ยท BLS ยท Numbeo ยท For general guidance only