Cost of Living: Indianapolis, IN vs Billings, MT (2026)

Indianapolis

Indiana
74
VS

Billings

Montana
86

Indianapolis is 14% cheaper than Billings.

$1,112/mo ↑ 1%
Median Rent
$1,097/mo ↓ 1%
$62,995/yr ↓ 12%
Median Income
$71,855/yr ↑ 14%
$207,000 ↓ 34%
Home Value
$311,800 ↑ 51%
$1,124/mo ↓ 5%
Owner Costs
$1,177/mo ↑ 5%
882,043
Population
118,321

Tax Comparison

3.05%
Income Tax
6.75%
7.0%
State Sales Tax
0%
0.83%
Property Tax
0.74%

Affordability

21.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
18.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Indianapolis, IN and Billings, MT, the overall cost of living indices are 74 and 86 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $8,860/year higher in Billings. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Indianapolis is $207,000 compared to $311,800 in Billings.

Indiana has a lower income tax rate, making Indianapolis slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Indianapolis vs Billings — common questions

Is Indianapolis or Billings cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Indianapolis is cheaper to live in with an index of 74 compared to 86 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Indianapolis and Billings?
Median rent in Indianapolis is $1,112/month and in Billings it's $1,097/month — a difference of $15/month.
Which city has higher income, Indianapolis or Billings?
Median household income is $62,995 in Indianapolis and $71,855 in Billings. Median household income is $8,860/year higher in Billings.
How do taxes compare between Indiana and Montana?
Indiana has 3.05% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.83% property tax. Montana has 6.75% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.74% property tax.
Should I move to Indianapolis or Billings?
It depends on your priorities. Indianapolis has a cost index of 74 with median rent of $1,112/mo, while Billings has a cost index of 86 with rent of $1,097/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Indianapolis details → View Billings details →

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