Factors influencing moving costs from Washington DC to Billingstoggle

The cost of Washington DC movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from Washington DC to Billings can be as low as $1,571 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $ 12,114.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Washington DC, so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $1,372 to $3,515. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Washington DC to Billings

Moving from Washington DC to Billings means adjusting to a different pace of life โ€” and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Washington DC than in Billings, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Washington DC compares to Billings so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Washington DC Billings
Average rent cost $2,400 $1,300
Average home value $594,337 $381,592
Average income (per capita) $101,722 $63,515
Cost of living (single person) $3,963 $1,773
Cost of living (family of 4) $11,093 $4,536
Unemployment rate 7.0% 4.1%
Sales tax 6.0% 0.0%
State income tax 5.75% 6.75%
  • Rent prices in Billings are 46% lower than in Washington DC, which means youโ€™ll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Billings.
    Home prices in Billings are 35.8% lower than in Washington DC.
  • Income in Billings is 37.6% lower than in Washington DC, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Billings include Billings Clinic, First Interstate BancSystem, and The Waggoners Trucking.
  • The cost of living for a single person in Billings is 55.3% lower than in Washington DC. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in Billings is 59.1% lower than in Washington DC.
  • The unemployment rate in Billings is 41.43% lower than in Washington DC.
  • Youโ€™ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Billings, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Billings are 100.00% lower than in Washington DC.
  • State income taxes in Billings are 17.39% higher than in Washington DC.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,342.17 in Billings to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Washington DC.

How life is different in Washington DC vs. Billings

Billings Washington DC
Population 184,167 705,749
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 3 9
Walkability score 35 77
Bike friendliness score 47 70
Crime Index 48.63 60.37
Safety Index 50.37 39.63
Air Quality Good Good
  • Billings's population is about 74% less than Washington DC.
  • Billings's public transportation has a score of 3 out of 10 versus Washington DC's higher score of 9.
  • Billings is less walkable than Washington DC with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Washington DC's 77 out of 100.
  • Billings has a bike-friendliness score 47 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Washington DC, which has a score of 70 out of 100.
  • Billings's crime rate is lower than Washington DC with a score of 48.63 compared to Washington DC's 60.37. This means that Billings neighborhoods are safer than 48.63% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Washington DC neighborhoods are safer than 60.37%.
  • Billings is considered to be safer than Washington DC with a safety index of 50.37 vs Washington DC's 39.63.
  • Air quality in Billings is good, and in Washington DC it's good.

Other things to consider for your Washington DC vs. Billings move

  • Weather: June, September and August are the most pleasant months in Billings, while December and January are the least comfortable months.
  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • State licensing: In Montana, local and intrastate movers need to have a valid Public Service Commission (PSC) number issued by the Montana Department of Transportation (MDOT).Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a Montana moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving permits: Montana doesn\โ€™t require moving permits, but it\โ€™s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Youโ€™ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Billings. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry.Opt for Released Value Protection, a no-cost option from movers with basic coverage. Movers assume liability for up to 60 cents per pound per item. For instance, if your mover lost or damaged a valuable painting weighing 20 pounds, you would only receive $12 (60 cents x 20 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for the full value of your items, discuss alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Billings

Ready to relocate to " Magic City"? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Billings.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown Billings
  • South Park
  • Poly Vista
  • North Park
  • Shiloh Crossing

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Josephine Crossing
  • West End
  • Heights
  • Briarwood
  • Ironwood Estates

Things to do in Billings

After getting comfortable in your new Montana home, itโ€™s time to see what Billings is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife โ€” thereโ€™s plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Billings include museums and art centers like the Moss Mansion, Yellowstone Art Museum, Western Heritage Center, Yellowstone County Museum, and Wise Wonders Children's Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s The Rimrocks, ZooMontana, DanWalt Gardens, and Pictograph Cave State Park โ€” and more, offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Montana State Billings Yellowjackets (GNAC) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Washington DC to Billings?

The best time to move from Washington DC to Billings is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Washington DC.

When is the cheapest time to move from Washington DC to Billings?

Because most people are moving from Washington DC to Billings in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.

How long does a move from Washington DC to Billings take?

The 1,919-mile move from Washington DC, MD, to Billings, MT, takes five to 16 days. Some Washington DC movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Billings.

Helpful moving resources