Billings

by The Linguist

Billings is the largest city in the state of Montana with a population of 110,263 as of the 2020 census. Located in Yellowstone County in the south-central part of the state, Billings serves as the county seat and is the principal city of the Billings Metropolitan Statistical Area. The city sits along the Yellowstone River and near the Rimrocks, sandstone rock formations that create a natural wall around much of the city.

History

Billings was founded in 1877 and named after Frederick H. Billings, president of the Northern Pacific Railroad. The railroad played a major role in the early growth and development of the city. Billings quickly became a center for business and industry in the region with its railroad and agricultural opportunities. Early settlers were drawn to the area for its fertile land, abundant water, and mild winters.

Some key moments in Billings’ history:

  • 1877 – Founded and named Billings
  • 1882 – Becomes incorporated city
  • 1890s – Population boom as Montana’s largest rail hub
  • 1910s – Growth of oil, banking and education sectors
  • 1920s – Expansion of sugar beet industry and highway system
  • 1930s – Billings Logan International Airport built
  • 1960s – Interstate 90 connects Billings to other major cities

Today, Billings serves as an economic and cultural hub for much of Montana and northern Wyoming. The city offers a diverse economy along with arts, entertainment and outdoor recreational activities for residents and visitors.

Demographics

According to the 2020 U.S. Census, Billings had a population of 110,263 making it the most populous city in Montana. The racial makeup of the city was:

  • 89.3% White
  • 0.8% Black or African American
  • 5.3% Native American
  • 1.2% Asian
  • 0.1% Pacific Islander
  • 2.6% Two or more races
  • 5.0% Hispanic or Latino of any race

The median age in Billings is 36.8 years. 22.5% of the population is under 18 years and 13.5% is over 65 years of age. 50.3% of the population is female. The city has a relatively young population compared to national averages.

According to the Census’ American Community Survey, 89.3% of Billings residents had a high school education or higher, while 30.3% had a bachelor’s degree or higher. Education levels reflect state and national trends.

Economy and Major Employers

Billings has a diverse economy anchored by energy, healthcare, transportation, and retail. Many companies are attracted to Billings due to its location at the hub of major trade corridors, its business services, and its relative affordability compared to other metro areas.

Some of the major employers in Billings include:

Many Billings residents also work in healthcare, retail, education, hospitality and energy. The city serves as a major regional hub for healthcare with two major hospitals and various clinics. Energy is also key with the oil refinery and access to oil fields in eastern Montana and western North Dakota.

Attractions and Landmarks

Some of the top attractions and landmarks in Billings include:

The city also offers several cultural attractions like the Yellowstone Art Museum, Billings Symphony Orchestra and Chorale, and Alberta Bair Theater providing arts and entertainment.

Sports

Billings has a minor league baseball team called the Billings Mustangs that plays at Dehler Park downtown. The Mustangs are a Rookie affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds. During home games in the summer, Dehler Park provides fun and entertainment for families and baseball fans.

Hockey is also popular in Billings with the Billings Bulls junior league ice hockey team. The Bulls play at the Centennial Ice Arena during the winter months.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Lake Elmo State Park offers hiking, biking, boating, fishing, and more just minutes from downtown Billings.

Education

Billings Public Schools serve most of the city with 15 elementary schools, 3 middle schools, and 3 high schools. The district has over 16,000 students enrolled. In addition, Billings has several private and parochial school options.

For higher education, Billings is home to Montana State University Billings and Rocky Mountain College. MSU Billings is part of the Montana State University system with enrollment around 5,000 students. Rocky Mountain College is a private liberal arts college affiliated with the United Church of Christ.

Transportation

Billings Logan International Airport serves as the primary commercial airport for much of southern and eastern Montana. The airport offers nonstop flights to major hubs like Denver, Salt Lake City, Minneapolis, Seattle, Las Vegas and more. Several major airlines operate out of Billings.

Interstate 90 and Interstate 94 intersect near Billings, providing efficient highway access. I-90 connects Billings to places like Seattle, Spokane, and Missoula to the west and Rapid City, Sioux Falls, and Chicago to the east. I-94 offers direct access northeast to Bismarck and Fargo.

The Billings MET Transit system provides public bus service throughout the city. Downtown Billings is quite walkable and bike friendly with an extensive trail system running throughout.

Growth and Development

Billings saw rapid growth from 1970 to 2010 as its population nearly doubled. Growth has since slowed but remains steady. Major residential and commercial developments continue to expand on the outskirts of town, particularly to the west and south. Revitalization projects are also underway in the downtown core.

The city continues positioning itself as an energy, healthcare, education and commercial hub for Montana and the northern Plains. Billings offers a diversified economy, reasonable cost of living, and excellent transportation infrastructure by regional standards. Improvement and expansion of air service also remains a priority.

With its location, business services and amenities, Billings seems poised for continued population and economic growth in the coming decade.