Moving from Chiang Mai to Billings (2026)

Billings has a COL index of 89 vs 39 for Chiang Mai (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 131% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$1,235 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
39 โ†’ 89
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$390 โ†’ $1,200
per month
State tax
None โ†’ 6.8%
income tax
COL difference
39 โ†’ 89
131% more expensive

Salary needed in Billings to match your Chiang Mai lifestyle

Based on the 131% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in Chiang MaiEquivalent in Billings
$40K$92,468
$50K$115,584
$60K$138,701
$75K$173,377
$80K$184,935
$100K$231,169
$120K$277,403
$150K$346,753

Adjust your salary

Pay ~$832/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Chiang Mai vs Billings

ExpenseChiang MaiBillings
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,316
1BR rent$390$1,200
Groceries$380$369
Transport$150$42
Utilities$55$148
Internet$20$68
Left after essentials$3,746$2,489

Frequently asked questions

Is Billings cheaper than Chiang Mai?

No. Billings has a cost of living index of 89 vs 39 for Chiang Mai (100 = US average). That's about 131% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Chiang Mai to Billings?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Billings run about $1,235/month more than Chiang Mai. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Chiang Mai, you'd need roughly $173,377/year in Billings. 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