Cost of Living: Montgomery, AL vs Billings, MT (2026)

Montgomery

Alabama
64
VS

Billings

Montana
86

Montgomery is 26% cheaper than Billings.

$1,059/mo ↓ 3%
Median Rent
$1,097/mo ↑ 4%
$55,687/yr ↓ 23%
Median Income
$71,855/yr ↑ 29%
$148,500 ↓ 52%
Home Value
$311,800 ↑ 110%
$1,023/mo ↓ 13%
Owner Costs
$1,177/mo ↑ 15%
198,440
Population
118,321

Tax Comparison

5.0%
Income Tax
6.75%
4.0%
State Sales Tax
0%
0.41%
Property Tax
0.74%

Affordability

22.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
18.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Montgomery, AL and Billings, MT, the overall cost of living indices are 64 and 86 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $16,168/year higher in Billings. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Montgomery is $148,500 compared to $311,800 in Billings.

Alabama has a lower income tax rate, making Montgomery slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Montgomery vs Billings — common questions

Is Montgomery or Billings cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Montgomery is cheaper to live in with an index of 64 compared to 86 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Montgomery and Billings?
Median rent in Montgomery is $1,059/month and in Billings it's $1,097/month — a difference of $38/month.
Which city has higher income, Montgomery or Billings?
Median household income is $55,687 in Montgomery and $71,855 in Billings. Median household income is $16,168/year higher in Billings.
How do taxes compare between Alabama and Montana?
Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. Montana has 6.75% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.74% property tax.
Should I move to Montgomery or Billings?
It depends on your priorities. Montgomery has a cost index of 64 with median rent of $1,059/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 Montgomery details → View Billings details →

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