Moving from Phuket to Billings (2026)

Billings has a COL index of 89 vs 52 for Phuket (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 71% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$925 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
52 โ†’ 89
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$700 โ†’ $1,200
per month
State tax
None โ†’ 6.8%
income tax
COL difference
52 โ†’ 89
71% more expensive

Salary needed in Billings to match your Phuket lifestyle

Based on the 71% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in PhuketEquivalent in Billings
$40K$68,462
$50K$85,577
$60K$102,692
$75K$128,365
$80K$136,923
$100K$171,154
$120K$205,385
$150K$256,731

Adjust your salary

Pay ~$489/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

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

ExpensePhuketBillings
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,316
1BR rent$700$1,200
Groceries$380$369
Transport$150$42
Utilities$80$148
Internet$28$68
Left after essentials$3,403$2,489

Frequently asked questions

Is Billings cheaper than Phuket?

No. Billings has a cost of living index of 89 vs 52 for Phuket (100 = US average). That's about 71% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Phuket to Billings?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Billings run about $925/month more than Phuket. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Phuket, you'd need roughly $128,365/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