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Moving to Billings, MT

Complete 2026 relocation guide with costs, neighborhoods, and quality of life data

Quick Summary (TL;DR)

**Moving to Billings, MT:** Average 2BR move costs $2,170 inbound. Cost of living is 9% below the national average (index: 90.7). The city has low demand (potential for 10-20% discounts) for moving services. Population: 117,116. Safety rating: moderately safe (64/100). Key industries: Healthcare, Energy (Oil Refining & Natural Gas), Agriculture.

Data Sources: MoveSmart_City_Analysis_2026, Census_ACS_2024, BLS_Employment_2026
117K
Population
$2,170
Avg Move Cost
90.7
Cost Index
64/100
Safety Score
$1.1K
Avg 1BR Rent
Last Updated: 2026-04-19Prepared by MoveSmart Team

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Local Moving Challenges in Billings

City-specific obstacles and how to handle them

Billings's smaller footprint generally makes moving logistics more straightforward than major metros. However, some residential areas may have narrow streets or limited truck access that requires planning. Northern location means winter moves (November-March) face snow, ice, and sub-freezing temperatures. Budget extra time for weather delays and ensure movers use floor runners to protect both residences from slush and salt tracked inside.

Parking & Permit Requirements

Contact Billings city hall or your building management about moving truck parking permits. Most apartment complexes and HOAs have their own requirements including elevator reservations, proof of insurance, and sometimes move-in deposits. Schedule your parking permit at least 5 business days before your move date.

Neighborhood Moving Tips

  • Ask your new Billings neighbors about moving day logistics specific to your building or street. Local knowledge prevents surprises.
  • Join Billings community groups online before your move to get neighborhood-specific tips from residents.

Quality of Life in Billings

Safety, walkability, commute, and environment

Overall Quality of Life Score
61/100

Billings scores 61/100 on our Quality of Life Index (based on available local metrics). This is a moderate score, with room for improvement in some areas. Key strengths include short average commute times and below-average cost of living. Areas to consider: like any city, specific neighborhoods may vary.

Safety

Good
64

Research specific neighborhoods — safety varies significantly across Billings.

Walkability

Average
43

Car-dependent city - plan for vehicle ownership costs.

Commute

Average
52

Average commute is 24 minutes. Reasonable commute times across the city.

Pros of Living in Billings
  • +Short average commute times
  • +Below-average cost of living
  • +Strong job market with diverse industries
Considerations
  • -Like any city, specific neighborhoods may vary
Data Sources: FBI_Crime_Stats_2024, WalkScore_API, EPA_AQI_2026, Census_Commute_Data_2024

Economy & Job Market

Employment, industries, and opportunities in Billings

Billings's job market draws on Healthcare and Energy (Oil Refining & Natural Gas). The median household income of $55,136 is comparable to the national median.

Median Household Income
$55,136
At national median
Key Industries
5
Healthcare, Energy (Oil Refining & Natural Gas), Agriculture
Major Employers
5
Billings Clinic, St. Vincent Healthcare
Industry Landscape

The local economy is driven by Healthcare, Energy (Oil Refining & Natural Gas), Agriculture, with additional opportunities in Retail and Transportation. Major employers include Billings Clinic, St. Vincent Healthcare, ExxonMobil Refinery, Cenex Harvest States (CHS Refinery).

HealthcareEnergy (Oil Refining & Natural Gas)AgricultureRetailTransportation
Major Employers
Billings Clinic
St. Vincent Healthcare
ExxonMobil Refinery
Cenex Harvest States (CHS Refinery)
Billings Public Schools
Job Seeker Tips for Billings
  • •Healthcare is a major employer - research hospital systems and clinics in your specialty.
  • •Research major employers like Billings Clinic before relocating for better job prospects.
  • •Network with Billings professionals on LinkedIn 2-3 months before your move.
  • •Check job boards specific to MT for local opportunities not listed nationally.
Data Sources: BLS_Employment_2026, Census_ACS_2024, LinkedIn_Economic_Graph

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about moving to Billings

The average 2-bedroom move TO Billings costs $2,170, with studios around $1,085 and 4+ bedroom homes running $4,340+. Off-peak timing often yields lower rates on this corridor.

MoveSmart Rate Database, AMSA 2025
Data Sources: MoveSmart_FAQ_Database, Census_ACS_2024, FMCSA_2026

Moving Costs: Billings

Inbound and outbound cost analysis

Moving TO Billings

Moving TO Billings: The average cost for a 2-bedroom move is $2,170. Billings experiences lower demand, often resulting in competitive pricing and negotiation opportunities. Limited backhaul discounts available for this direction.

$2,170avg 2BR
Moving FROM Billings

Moving FROM Billings: The average cost for a 2-bedroom move is $2,170. Outbound and inbound costs are in a similar range on this corridor.

$2,170avg 2BR

Moving Costs by Home Size

Home SizeWeightInbound CostOutbound Cost
Studio/1BR2,000-3,000 lbs$1,302-$1,628$1,302-$1,628
2BR5,000-6,000 lbs$1,845-$2,496$1,845-$2,496
3BR8,000-10,000 lbs$2,821-$3,472$2,821-$3,472
4BR+12,000-15,000 lbs$3,906-$4,774$3,906-$4,774
Seasonal Factors

Billings's northern location means winter moves (Dec-Feb) can face weather delays. Peak season is May-August with 20-40% higher rates. The "Golden Window" is late April to early May for best pricing and weather.

Money-Saving Tips for Billings Moves
  • $Billings's moderate demand means more negotiating power — compare multiple estimates.
  • $Book 4-6 weeks ahead for Billings moves to lock in the best rates.
  • $Mid-month, mid-week moves to Billings are typically 10-15% cheaper than month-end weekends.
Data Sources: MoveSmart_Cost_Analysis_2026, EIA_STEO_2026, FMCSA_Carrier_Database
In-Depth Guide

The Complete Guide to Moving to Billings, MT in 2026

Prepared by MoveSmart Team · · 236 words

Reviewed by MoveSmart Team · Last verified April 2026 · Editorial Standards

Table of Contents

1Why People Are Moving to Billings

Billings, Montana has become an attractive option for relocating families and professionals in 2026. With a population of 117,116, the city offers strong opportunities in Healthcare, Energy (Oil Refining & Natural Gas), Agriculture. The affordable cost of living combines with improving community development and suburban character with room to grow. Whether you're relocating for a job opportunity, seeking a change of scenery, or planning retirement, understanding Billings's unique characteristics will help you make an informed decision and plan a successful move.

2What to Expect: Cost of Living in Billings

Understanding Billings's cost structure is essential for planning your move. The city's Cost of Living Index of 90.7 means you'll enjoy savings of about 9% compared to the national average. **Housing Costs:** The median home price is $276,292, while renters pay approximately $1,139 for a 1-bedroom and $1,481 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The housing market offers reasonable options across various price points. **Income Considerations:** The median household income in Billings is $55,136. Salaries are in line with the cost of living.

3Moving Costs: Getting to Billings

The cost of your move to Billings depends on distance, timing, and inventory size. **Inbound**: Moving TO Billings averages $2,170 for a 2BR. **Outbound**: Moving FROM Billings averages $2,170.

4Next Steps for Your Billings Move

For the full pre-move timeline and general moving guidance, see our [Complete Moving Guide](/guide). Below, get a personalized cost estimate for your Billings move:
Data Sources: MoveSmart_Research_2026, Census_ACS_2024, BLS_2026, EIA_STEO_2026

Neighborhoods in Billings

Finding the right area for your lifestyle

Billings offers a diverse range of neighborhoods, each with its own character. Downtown Billings is the vibrant urban core, featuring historic architecture, a growing restaurant scene, and cultural venues like the Alberta Bair Theater. The Heights, located northeast of downtown, is a largely residential area known for its family-friendly atmosphere, newer homes, and scenic views of the Rimrocks. The West End is a rapidly developing area characterized by modern housing, extensive retail centers, and a more suburban feel, attracting many new residents. North Park is an older, established neighborhood close to downtown, recognized for its tree-lined streets and historic homes. South Park, similar to North Park, offers a mix of residential properties and proximity to the Yellowstone River. Areas like Shiloh and Broadwater, often considered part of the West End expansion, continue to see new residential and commercial growth.

Average 1BR Rent
$1,139
Monthly
Average 2BR Rent
$1,481
Monthly
Walkability Score
43/100
Car-Dependent
Neighborhood Selection Tips
  • •Safety varies significantly by Billings neighborhood — citywide average (64/100) can mask block-by-block differences.
Data Sources: Zillow_Rent_Index_2026, WalkScore_API, Census_ACS_2024

Cost of Living in Billings

Compared to national averages

Billings offers a cost of living 9% below the national average, making it an attractive destination for budget-conscious movers.

CategoryBillingsNational AvgDifference
Cost of Living Index90.7100-9%
1BR Rent (Monthly)$1,139$1,500-24%
2BR Rent (Monthly)$1,481$1,900-22%
Median Home Price$276,292$400,000-31%
Median Household Income$55,136$75,000-26%
Sales Tax Rate0.00%7.12%-7.12%
Key Insights
  • •Housing is relatively affordable: Rent is 25% of median income, within the healthy 30% threshold recommended by housing experts [Source: Harvard JCHS 2025].
  • •No state sales tax on most purchases in this state.
Data Sources: Census_ACS_2024, BLS_CPI_2026, Zillow_Rent_Index_2026

Billings at a Glance

Five metrics that shape daily life — each city's polygon tells its own story.

Safety: 64/100 (64/100)Walkability: 43/100 (43/100)Air quality: 50/100 (N/A)Short commute: 72/100 (24 min)Affordability: 87/100 (CoL 91)SafetyWalkabilityAir qualityShort commuteAffordability
Safety
64/100
64
Walkability
43/100
43
Air quality
N/A
50
Short commute
24 min
72
Affordability
CoL 91
87

Popular Moving Routes for Billings

Real price, distance, and demand data for top corridors in and out of Billings.

Moving FROM Billings

DestinationMiles2BR costDemand
Seattle, WA667$1,676–$2,868Medium
Portland, OR684$1,614–$2,824Medium
Las Vegas, NV748$1,681–$2,942Medium
Albuquerque, NM746$1,543–$2,700Medium
Omaha, NE702$1,443–$2,526Medium
Denver, CO454$1,586–$2,353Medium

Moving TO Billings

OriginMiles2BR costDemand
Seattle, WA667$1,676–$2,868Medium
Portland, OR684$1,614–$2,824Medium
Las Vegas, NV748$1,681–$2,942Medium
Albuquerque, NM746$1,543–$2,700Medium
Omaha, NE702$1,443–$2,526Medium
Denver, CO454$1,586–$2,353Medium

Billings Moving Challenges & Local Tips

Billings's smaller footprint generally makes moving logistics more straightforward than major metros. However, some residential areas may have narrow streets or limited truck access that requires planning. Northern location means winter moves (November-March) face snow, ice, and sub-freezing temperatures. Budget extra time for weather delays and ensure movers use floor runners to protect both residences from slush and salt tracked inside.

Parking & Permits

Contact Billings city hall or your building management about moving truck parking permits. Most apartment complexes and HOAs have their own requirements including elevator reservations, proof of insurance, and sometimes move-in deposits. Schedule your parking permit at least 5 business days before your move date.

Neighborhood Tips

  • Ask your new Billings neighbors about moving day logistics specific to your building or street. Local knowledge prevents surprises.
  • Join Billings community groups online before your move to get neighborhood-specific tips from residents.

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