Cost of Living: Tucson, AZ vs Billings, MT (2026)

Tucson

Arizona
76
VS

Billings

Montana
86

Tucson is 12% cheaper than Billings.

$1,079/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,097/mo ↑ 2%
$54,546/yr ↓ 24%
Median Income
$71,855/yr ↑ 32%
$242,200 ↓ 22%
Home Value
$311,800 ↑ 29%
$1,076/mo ↓ 9%
Owner Costs
$1,177/mo ↑ 9%
543,348
Population
118,321

Tax Comparison

2.5%
Income Tax
6.75%
5.6%
State Sales Tax
0%
0.62%
Property Tax
0.74%

Affordability

23.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
18.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tucson, AZ and Billings, MT, the overall cost of living indices are 76 and 86 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $17,309/year higher in Billings. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tucson is $242,200 compared to $311,800 in Billings.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Tucson slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tucson vs Billings — common questions

Is Tucson or Billings cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Tucson is cheaper to live in with an index of 76 compared to 86 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Tucson and Billings?
Median rent in Tucson is $1,079/month and in Billings it's $1,097/month — a difference of $18/month.
Which city has higher income, Tucson or Billings?
Median household income is $54,546 in Tucson and $71,855 in Billings. Median household income is $17,309/year higher in Billings.
How do taxes compare between Arizona and Montana?
Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Montana has 6.75% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.74% property tax.
Should I move to Tucson or Billings?
It depends on your priorities. Tucson has a cost index of 76 with median rent of $1,079/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 Tucson details → View Billings details →

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