Let the numbers do the talking.
Billings, MT vs Great Falls, MT
Billings, MT vs Great Falls, MT: What the data shows
Billings, MT is in Billings, MT while Great Falls, MT is in Great Falls, MT — both in the same state. On home prices, Great Falls, MT is the more affordable option at $186,300 median — $37,900 less than Billings, MT's $224,200. WYLT rates Billings, MT as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Great Falls, MT as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Great Falls, MT has the stronger safety profile of the two. Billings, MT has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Great Falls, MT has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Billings, MT has Low flood risk and Great Falls, MT has Low flood risk.
The two neighborhoods are similarly walkable. Billings, MT scores 18/100 (car-dependent) versus Great Falls, MT's 18/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Great Falls, MT has the higher school rating — Billings, MT rates 6.8/10 and Great Falls, MT rates 6.9/10.
| Category | Billings, MT | Great Falls, MT |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $224K | $186K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $921 | $766 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $57K ✓ Higher income | $48K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 18/100 | 18/100 |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 48/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | N/A | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.8/10 | 6.9/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | remote workersfamilies seeking lower cost of livingretirees | retireesnature_loversbudget_homeowners |
Bottom line
If a family is looking for an affordable option with good schools, Great Falls is the better choice, despite its sparse nightlife. For a retiree seeking a quiet, budget-friendly environment, Billings offers more opportunities for socializing and some nearby attractions. Overall, Great Falls is a slightly better option for those prioritizing affordability and a simple lifestyle, while Billings is more suitable for those willing to trade some urban amenities for a slightly lower cost of living.
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