Let the numbers do the talking.
Billings, MT vs Whitefish, MT
Billings, MT vs Whitefish, MT: What the data shows
Billings, MT is in Billings, MT while Whitefish, MT is in Whitefish, MT — both in the same state. On home prices, Billings, MT is the more affordable option at $224,200 median — $388,300 less than Whitefish, MT's $612,500. WYLT rates Billings, MT as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Whitefish, MT as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Whitefish, MT has the stronger safety profile of the two. Billings, MT has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Whitefish, MT has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Billings, MT has Low flood risk and Whitefish, MT has Low flood risk.
Billings, MT is the more walkable neighborhood. Billings, MT scores 18/100 (car-dependent) versus Whitefish, MT's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Billings, MT has the higher school rating — Billings, MT rates 6.8/10 and Whitefish, MT rates 6.1/10.
| Category | Billings, MT | Whitefish, MT |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $224K ✓ Lower price | $613K |
| Median Rent | $921 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $57K | $73K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 18/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 48/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | N/A | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | B ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.8/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.1/10 |
| Best for | remote workersfamilies seeking lower cost of livingretirees | Outdoor enthusiastsFamiliesRetirees |
Bottom line
If you're a retiree or someone who values a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere and isn't sensitive to higher costs, Whitefish might be the better choice. However, if you prioritize affordability and are open to a smaller city experience, Billings could work for you. Ultimately, both neighborhoods face similar issues with limited walkability and transit, making them less suitable for those who value a more urban lifestyle.
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