Billings, MT vs Santa Maria, CA: 86 vs 137

$1,097/mo ↓ 40%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 68%

$71,855/yr ↓ 15%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 18%

$311,800 ↓ 35%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 53%

$1,177/mo ↓ 34%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 52%

118,321

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Billings, MT and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 86 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $745/month cheaper in Billings, saving renters about $8,940/year.

Median household income is $12,762/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Billings is $311,800 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

Montana has a lower income tax rate, making Billings slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Billings vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Billings or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Billings is cheaper to live in with an index of 86 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Billings and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Billings is $1,097/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $745/month.

Which city has higher income, Billings or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $71,855 in Billings and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $12,762/year higher in Santa Maria.

How do taxes compare between Montana and California?

Montana has 6.75% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.74% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Billings or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Billings has a cost index of 86 with median rent of $1,097/mo, while Santa Maria has a cost index of 137 with rent of $1,842/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Billings, MT vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Billings

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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