Santa Rosa, CA vs Billings, MT: 172 vs 86

$2,084/mo ↑ 90%

Median Rent

$1,097/mo ↓ 47%

$97,410/yr ↑ 36%

Median Income

$71,855/yr ↓ 26%

$685,000 ↑ 120%

Home Value

$311,800 ↓ 54%

$2,130/mo ↑ 81%

Owner Costs

$1,177/mo ↓ 45%

177,216

Population

118,321

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Santa Rosa, CA and Billings, MT, the overall cost of living indices are 172 and 86 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $987/month cheaper in Billings, saving renters about $11,844/year.

Median household income is $25,555/year higher in Santa Rosa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Santa Rosa is $685,000 compared to $311,800 in Billings.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Santa Rosa vs Billings — common questions

Is Santa Rosa or Billings cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Billings is cheaper to live in with an index of 86 compared to 172 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Santa Rosa and Billings?

Median rent in Santa Rosa is $2,084/month and in Billings it's $1,097/month — a difference of $987/month.

Which city has higher income, Santa Rosa or Billings?

Median household income is $97,410 in Santa Rosa and $71,855 in Billings. Median household income is $25,555/year higher in Santa Rosa.

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 Rosa or Billings?

It depends on your priorities. Santa Rosa has a cost index of 172 with median rent of $2,084/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 Rosa, CA vs Billings, MT (2026)

Santa Rosa

Billings

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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