Moving from Penang to Billings (2026)

Billings has a COL index of 89 vs 44 for Penang (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 105% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$1,165 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
44 โ†’ 89
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$460 โ†’ $1,200
per month
State tax
None โ†’ 6.8%
income tax
COL difference
44 โ†’ 89
105% more expensive

Salary needed in Billings to match your Penang lifestyle

Based on the 105% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in PenangEquivalent in Billings
$40K$81,839
$50K$102,299
$60K$122,759
$75K$153,448
$80K$163,678
$100K$204,598
$120K$245,517
$150K$306,897

Adjust your salary

Pay ~$760/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

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

ExpensePenangBillings
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,316
1BR rent$460$1,200
Groceries$380$369
Transport$150$42
Utilities$55$148
Internet$22$68
Left after essentials$3,674$2,489

Frequently asked questions

Is Billings cheaper than Penang?

No. Billings has a cost of living index of 89 vs 44 for Penang (100 = US average). That's about 105% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Penang to Billings?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Billings run about $1,165/month more than Penang. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Penang, you'd need roughly $153,448/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