Coldwell Banker Commercial
The Brokers
1215 24th St. West, Billings, MT 59102

Telephone: 406.652.2001 | Fax: 406.652.6165
MSG: 1-800-755-1182

2008 Economic Outlook Publication

  Local Market Information

MARKET OVERVIEW -  Billings/Yellowstone County in general is a merchant’s dream. According to statistics from the 2000 census retail sales increased from 1997 @ $1,797,881,000 to $1,903,076,000 in 1999. In per capita form that is an increase from $12,509 to $14,712 based on the year 2000 population. The statewide per capita average including the Yellowstone County figures were $8,853. The Yellowstone County figures vs. the rest of Montana combined are generally double the statewide averages when removed. The numbers just get better when more market realities are added to the mix. The census calculates that the Yellowstone County market draws from a population of 363,000. This is the “daily” marketplace. Montana has no sales tax, Yellowstone County is the largest Metro area from Denver, Calgary, Spokane, Salt Lake City, and the Twin Cities so our actual draw is much higher on a less frequent basis. Another large draw is our two Major hospitals. Billings has twice the “normal” employment percentage of medical professionals vs. the national average.

Since the year 2000 figures, the following “big” name retailers have come to Yellowstone County. Walmart and Target have both opened their second locations. Ross, Famous Footwear, Best Buy, Abercrombie & Fitch, Linens & Things, Mohawk, Borders Books, Petsmart, and Gateway. A 300-acre site for a new additional Medical Center was approved in October 2002. 

Our diverse entertainment options include the Metra Expo Center for pro sports, music and rodeo. Billings has three live stages for local and touring music and drama. Billings is an overnight destination for nearly one million Rocky Mountain and Plains state residents. If you are not here you should be.

We can provide current lease rates, vacancy rates, absorption information and overall timing perspective because our Commercial Specialists has spent each and every day working in their commercial specialty only. Call us at 406.656.2001