Santa Ana, CA vs Billings, MT: 163 vs 86

$1,975/mo ↑ 80%

Median Rent

$1,097/mo ↓ 44%

$88,354/yr ↑ 23%

Median Income

$71,855/yr ↓ 19%

$657,800 ↑ 111%

Home Value

$311,800 ↓ 53%

$1,965/mo ↑ 67%

Owner Costs

$1,177/mo ↓ 40%

311,639

Population

118,321

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Santa Ana, CA and Billings, MT, the overall cost of living indices are 163 and 86 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $878/month cheaper in Billings, saving renters about $10,536/year.

Median household income is $16,499/year higher in Santa Ana. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Santa Ana is $657,800 compared to $311,800 in Billings.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Santa Ana vs Billings — common questions

Is Santa Ana or Billings cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Billings is cheaper to live in with an index of 86 compared to 163 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Santa Ana and Billings?

Median rent in Santa Ana is $1,975/month and in Billings it's $1,097/month — a difference of $878/month.

Which city has higher income, Santa Ana or Billings?

Median household income is $88,354 in Santa Ana and $71,855 in Billings. Median household income is $16,499/year higher in Santa Ana.

How do taxes compare between California and Montana?

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

Should I move to Santa Ana or Billings?

It depends on your priorities. Santa Ana has a cost index of 163 with median rent of $1,975/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.

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

Santa Ana

Billings

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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