Billings vs Houston

Category / Metric	Billings	Houston
Financial Overview
Median Income	$67,028	$62,637
Unemployment Rate	3.3%	4.8%
Housing Market
Median Home Price	$368,950	$335,000
Price per SqFt	$176	$175
Monthly Rent (1BR)	$874	$1,135
Housing Cost Index	73.0	106.5
Cost of Living
Groceries Index	94.3	103.4
Gas Price (Gallon)	$3.40	$2.35
Safety & Lifestyle
Violent Crime (per 100k)	469.8	912.4
Bachelor's Degree+	34.6%	37.1%
Air Quality (AQI)	27	44

Here is the ultimate head-to-head showdown between Houston and Billings.

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The Ultimate Head-to-Head: Houston vs. Billings

So, you’re standing at a crossroads. On one side, you have Houston, Texas—a sprawling, humid, energy-rich behemoth with a skyline that pierces the clouds and a food scene that will ruin you for any other city’s taco trucks. On the other, Billings, Montana—the "Magic City" of the high plains, a rugged gateway to the Rockies where the air is crisp, the pace is deliberate, and the sky feels bigger than anywhere else.

This isn't just a choice between a big city and a small one; it's a choice between two entirely different American dreams. Are you chasing the hustle, the diversity, and the non-stop energy of a global hub? Or are you seeking space, access to the outdoors, and a community where you know your neighbors?

Let’s break it down.

The Vibe Check: Big City Buzz vs. Western Charm

Houston is a beast. It’s the fourth-largest city in the country by population, and it feels it. This is a city of distinct, sprawling neighborhoods, each with its own personality—from the upscale, tree-lined streets of River Oaks to the vibrant, culture-packed pockets of Asiatown. The vibe is fast-paced, diverse, and relentlessly ambitious. It’s a city for people who want everything at their fingertips: world-class museums, a professional sports team for every season, and a culinary scene that rivals New York or Chicago. If you crave anonymity, endless options, and the feeling of being at the center of the action, Houston is your playground.

Billings, by contrast, is all about community and connection. With a population of just over 120,000, it’s a fraction of Houston’s size. The vibe is laid-back, friendly, and deeply rooted in the Western spirit. You don’t get lost in a crowd here; you become part of the fabric. The downtown is compact and walkable, the pace is slower, and the work-life balance leans heavily toward life. The focus here is on the outdoors—hiking the Rims, fishing on the Yellowstone River, or taking a short drive into the Beartooth Mountains. If you’re looking to escape the grind, value a slower pace, and want nature as your backyard, Billings is calling your name.

Who is each city for?

• Houston is for the ambitious professional, the foodie, the culture vulture, and anyone who thrives on diversity and energy.
• Billings is for the outdoor enthusiast, the remote worker seeking balance, the family wanting a safe, tight-knit community, and the retiree looking for a peaceful, scenic setting.

The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Money Work Harder?

This is where the rubber meets the road. Let’s talk cold, hard cash. Texas has a massive advantage here: 0% state income tax. Montana, on the other hand, has a progressive income tax system. This alone can be a dealbreaker for high earners.

Let’s break down the day-to-day costs.

Cost of Living Comparison Table

Category	Houston, TX	Billings, MT	The Takeaway
Median Home Price	$335,000	$368,950	Surprising, right? Billings is more expensive for a home.
Rent (1BR)	$1,135	$874	Houston rent is nearly 30% higher.
Housing Index	106.5	73.0	Houston's housing is more expensive than the national average; Billings is significantly cheaper.
Utilities	Higher in summer (AC), lower in winter.	Higher in winter (heating), lower in summer.	Different seasonal hits, but Billings likely edges out cheaper overall.
Groceries	Competitive, with ethnic markets offering great value.	Slightly higher due to transportation costs.	Houston wins for grocery variety and price.

Salary Wars: The Purchasing Power Puzzle
Here’s where it gets interesting. Billings has a slightly higher Median Income ($67,028) than Houston ($62,637). But let’s look at purchasing power.

If you earn $100,000 in Houston, after Texas’s 0% state income tax, you take home roughly $76,000 (after federal taxes and FICA). In Billings, Montana, earning $100,000 would mean losing about 3% to 6.75% in state income tax (depending on bracket), so your take-home is closer to $72,000-$74,000. The initial gap isn’t huge.

But then you pay rent. In Houston, your $1,135 monthly rent for a 1BR eats a larger chunk of that take-home pay than Billings’ $874. Over a year, that’s a $3,132 savings in Billings. Factor in lower utilities (outside of brutal winter heating) and you start to see the advantage.

The Verdict: For a mid-level earner, Billings offers slightly better purchasing power on a day-to-day basis due to lower rent and no major city taxes, despite a slightly higher home price. However, for a high earner (e.g., $150k+), Houston’s 0% income tax becomes a massive financial advantage, potentially outweighing higher living costs. It’s a nuanced win for Billings for the average earner, but a clear win for Houston for the high-income professional.

The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent

Houston: The market is competitive and vast. The Median Home Price of $335,000 is relatively accessible for a major metro, but the "Housing Index" of 106.5 indicates it's above the national average. You get more house for your money than in coastal cities, but inventory moves fast. It’s generally a Seller’s Market, with bidding wars common in desirable neighborhoods. Renting is a popular and viable option, offering flexibility in a city where commutes can be long.

Billings: This is the real shocker. The Median Home Price of $368,950 is higher than Houston’s. With a Housing Index of 73.0, Billings is far below the national average, meaning housing is relatively affordable, but the raw price is up. Why? Limited inventory. Billings is a landlocked city with geographic constraints, and demand is high from people seeking the Montana lifestyle. It’s a strong Seller’s Market. Renting is cheaper and more available, but buying is competitive. The American dream of a big yard and mountain views comes at a premium here.

The Takeaway: If you’re a buyer, Houston offers more inventory and slightly lower median prices, but you’ll face competition. In Billings, you’ll pay more for a home, but the market is less frantic than in bigger cities. If you’re renting, Billings is the clear winner on monthly cost.

The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life

Traffic & Commute:

• Houston: This is the city’s Achilles' heel. The sprawl is legendary. Commutes of 45-90 minutes are common, even for short distances, thanks to notorious traffic on I-45, I-10, and the 610 Loop. A car is non-negotiable, and gas/insurance costs add up. Winner: Billings.
• Billings: Traffic is a non-issue. You can cross town in 15-20 minutes. The commute is relaxed, and parking is easy and often free. This saves time and sanity. Clear Winner: Billings.

Weather:

• Houston: Brutal. Summers are long, oppressive, and humid, with temperatures routinely hitting 90°F+ with a heat index that’s even higher. Winters are mild but can be wet and gray. You deal with hurricane season and the occasional freeze. It’s a climate you endure. Average Temp: 59.0°F.
• Billings: A true four-season climate. Winters are cold and snowy (expect -10°F lows and significant snowfall), but the dry cold is less oppressive than humid cold. Springs are windy, summers are warm and sunny (highs around 85°F), and autumns are stunning. If you love winter sports and crisp fall days, this is paradise. If you hate snow, it’s a dealbreaker. Average Temp: 48.0°F.
• Verdict: It depends entirely on your preference. Houston for mild winters and dread of snow. Billings for those who want distinct seasons and outdoor winter activities.

Crime & Safety:

• Houston: As a major metro, it has big-city crime issues. The Violent Crime Rate is 912.4 per 100k—significantly higher than the national average. Safety varies dramatically by neighborhood; some areas are perfectly safe, while others are not. You must be aware of your surroundings. Clear Loser: Houston.
• Billings: A safer community overall. The Violent Crime Rate is 469.8 per 100k—still above the national average, but less than half of Houston's rate. It’s a generally safe city where people are less guarded. You can walk downtown at night without the same level of concern. Clear Winner: Billings.

The Verdict: Who Wins the Showdown?

This isn't about which city is "better," but which city is better for you.

• 🏆 Winner for Families: Billings

  • Why: Safety is a top priority for parents. Billings’ lower crime rate is a massive point in its favor. The pace is slower, the community is tighter-knit, and the access to outdoor recreation is unbeatable for family activities. While the school districts vary, the overall environment feels more contained and secure. The lower cost of living (especially rent) also means more disposable income for family experiences.

• 🏆 Winner for Singles/Young Professionals: Houston

  • Why: This is a no-brainer. The dating pool is vastly larger, the networking opportunities are endless, and the social scene is electric. If you’re building a career in energy, healthcare, or tech, Houston is a powerhouse. The diversity means you’ll find your niche, no matter how specific. The 0% state income tax is a huge boost for saving or spending. Billings can feel isolating for a single person in their 20s or early 30s.

• 🏆 Winner for Retirees: Billings

  • Why: While Houston’s no income tax is attractive, the climate and pace are often dealbreakers for retirees. Billings offers a peaceful, scenic environment with a strong sense of community. The cost of living is manageable, and the slower pace is conducive to relaxation. Access to nature is fantastic for an active retirement. The main caveat is the harsh winter—if you have mobility issues or hate the cold, Houston wins. But for the typical, active retiree, Billings’ quality of life is superior.

Final Pros & Cons

Houston: The Big City Titan

• ✅ Pros:
  • No State Income Tax: A huge financial advantage.
  • Diversity & Culture: Unmatched food, festivals, and communities.
  • Economy & Jobs: A global hub for energy, healthcare, and shipping.
  • Endless Entertainment: World-class museums, pro sports, concerts.
• ❌ Cons:
  • Brutal Humid Summers: Uncomfortable for months on end.
  • Traffic & Sprawl: A daily grind that consumes time and money.
  • Higher Crime Rate: A reality of major metro life.
  • Cost of Living Creep: While cheaper than NYC, it's not "cheap."

Billings: The Western Haven

• ✅ Pros:
  • Access to the Outdoors: The mountains, rivers, and trails are your backyard.
  • Safety & Community: A lower crime rate and a friendly, tight-knit feel.
  • Slower Pace of Life: Less stress, more work-life balance.
  • Lower Day-to-Day Costs: Cheaper rent, utilities, and groceries.
• ❌ Cons:
  • Harsh Winters: Snow, ice, and sub-zero temps for months.
  • Isolation: Limited big-city amenities, shopping, and flight options.
  • Smaller Job Market: Fewer opportunities outside of specific industries (healthcare, energy, retail).
  • Surprisingly High Home Prices: The dream of Montana living comes at a cost.

The Bottom Line: Choose Houston if you’re driven by career ambition, cultural immersion, and a fast-paced lifestyle, and you can handle the heat and traffic. Choose Billings if you value safety, community, and access to nature above all else, and you’re prepared for a real Montana winter. Your perfect city is the one that fits your life, not just your spreadsheet.