Cost of Living in Yellowstone County, Montana
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Yellowstone County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Yellowstone County, Montana
Yellowstone mirrors national affordability
Yellowstone County's median household income of $74,400 nearly equals the national median of $74,755, but its 17.5% rent-to-income ratio sits above typical U.S. standards. At $1,084 monthly rent, the county's housing costs are substantially higher than national norms, reflecting Montana's tighter rental market.
Montana's highest housing costs overall
Yellowstone County ranks among Montana's least affordable counties, with a 17.5% rent-to-income ratio exceeding the state average of 15.9%. The $1,084 median rent is the highest in this analysis—$259 above Montana's state median—while median home values of $317,600 far exceed rural county norms.
Premium pricing in the region
Yellowstone's $1,084 rent and $317,600 median home value substantially exceed all neighboring counties surveyed, reflecting Billings' urban market pull. The $1,257 monthly ownership cost is the region's highest, creating a two-tiered housing market with significant affordability challenges.
Montana's costliest housing market
Renters spend $1,084 monthly (17.5% of income), while homeowners pay $1,257 on properties valued near $317,600. Overall, Yellowstone households dedicate nearly one in five income dollars to housing—a burden reflecting the county's status as Montana's urban housing hub.
Urban amenities come at a price
Yellowstone County suits relocators seeking Montana's largest urban center (Billings) and are willing to pay for urban conveniences and job diversity. Budget accordingly: housing costs here significantly exceed rural alternatives, though income levels and employment opportunities partly offset the premium.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Yellowstone County
Rent Burden
17.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,736
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.3%
of gross income
The median home in Yellowstone County may be a stretch
Median home value is $317,600. Estimated monthly cost: $2,536 vs. your max of $1,736.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.