Moving from Detroit to Billings (2026)

Billings has a COL index of 89 vs 87 for Detroit (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 2% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$42 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
8789
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,200$1,200
per month
State tax
4.1%6.8%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,484$4,316
per month

Salary needed in Billings to match your Detroit lifestyle

Based on the 2% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in DetroitEquivalent in Billings
$40K$40,920
$50K$51,149
$60K$61,379
$75K$76,724
$80K$81,839
$100K$102,299
$120K$122,759
$150K$153,448

Monthly budget at $75K — Detroit vs Billings

ExpenseDetroitBillings
Monthly take-home$4,484$4,316
1BR rent$1,200$1,200
Groceries$369$369
Transport$65$42
Utilities$175$148
Internet$60$68
Left after essentials$2,615$2,489

Frequently asked questions

Is Billings cheaper than Detroit?

No. Billings has a cost of living index of 89 vs 87 for Detroit (100 = US average). That's about 2% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Detroit to Billings?

On a $75K salary, moving from Detroit to Billings could save roughly $42/month on core expenses. That's ~$504/year.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Detroit, you'd need roughly $76,724/year in Billings. 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