What to know when moving to Billings, MT
Billings at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A city where 42.2% of residents rent, with a median household income of $58,165.
- The Major Draw:
- Median gross rent stands at $930, making it relatively affordable.
- The Reality Check:
- With a poverty rate of 15.6%, some residents face economic challenges.
- Commute:
- Only 1.4% of residents use public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Plan for 87 rainy days each year and invest in good rain gear.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Billings has a population of approximately 41,797, with a noteworthy portion of renters at 42.2%. The community has a modest educational attainment level, with 22.4% of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher. With an annual precipitation of around 17.9 inches spread across 87 rainy days, newcomers should prepare for a wet climate. Outdoor enthusiasts will find parks like Pioneer Park and Pictograph Cave State Park nearby.
Probably not your spot if: You prefer a strong public transit system, as only 1.4% of residents use it.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $930, which is relatively affordable compared to many urban areas.
- The median owner-occupied home value is $243,000, indicating a housing market that may appeal to first-time buyers.
- The community has a poverty rate of 15.6%, reflecting some economic challenges.
- With a 42.2% renter percentage, there's a significant rental market in the area.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Crime data for Montana indicates a mixed picture, with property crime rates slightly below the national average.
- Violent crime rate: 407.2 per 100,000 residents, which is 25.2% higher than the national average of 325.3.
- Property crime rate: 1,445 per 100,000 residents, slightly below the national average of 1,546.9.
- Notable trend: The homicide rate has decreased by 31% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Montana).
Schools & Higher Ed
Billings has a total of 5 postsecondary institutions, providing various educational opportunities in the area.
- Aveda Institute Montana
- City College Montana State University Billings
- Montana Bible College
- Montana State University Billings
- Rocky Mountain College
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES, College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Billings experiences an average annual precipitation of about 17.9 inches, with 87 rainy days and 14 snowy days per year. The climate is characterized by relatively mild winters and a few wet months.
- Pioneer Park - 4.6 stars (1,519 reviews)
- Pictograph Cave State Park - 4.4 stars (1,279 reviews)
- Lake Elmo State Park - 4.4 stars (1,110 reviews)
- Riverfront Park - 4.5 stars (1,064 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.