Cost of Living: Spokane, WA vs Billings, MT (2026)

Spokane

Washington
90
VS

Billings

Montana
86

Spokane is 5% more expensive than Billings.

$1,141/mo ↑ 4%
Median Rent
$1,097/mo ↓ 4%
$65,745/yr ↓ 9%
Median Income
$71,855/yr ↑ 9%
$326,200 ↑ 5%
Home Value
$311,800 ↓ 4%
$1,213/mo ↑ 3%
Owner Costs
$1,177/mo ↓ 3%
229,228
Population
118,321

Tax Comparison

0%
Income Tax
6.75%
6.5%
State Sales Tax
0%
0.92%
Property Tax
0.74%

Affordability

20.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
18.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Spokane, WA and Billings, MT, the overall cost of living indices are 90 and 86 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $6,110/year higher in Billings. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Spokane is $326,200 compared to $311,800 in Billings.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Spokane residents a significant tax advantage over Montana's 6.75% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Spokane vs Billings — common questions

Is Spokane or Billings cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Billings is cheaper to live in with an index of 86 compared to 90 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Spokane and Billings?
Median rent in Spokane is $1,141/month and in Billings it's $1,097/month — a difference of $44/month.
Which city has higher income, Spokane or Billings?
Median household income is $65,745 in Spokane and $71,855 in Billings. Median household income is $6,110/year higher in Billings.
How do taxes compare between Washington and Montana?
Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. Montana has 6.75% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.74% property tax.
Should I move to Spokane or Billings?
It depends on your priorities. Spokane has a cost index of 90 with median rent of $1,141/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 Spokane details → View Billings details →

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