A brief history of Billings is provided in this article. Founded in 1882, Billings has grown from three buildings to more than ten thousand by the early twentieth century. As a result, Billings became one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S., earning the nickname "Magic City". Energy companies flocked to Billings, and the city's location in the middle of oil fields made it the energy center of western and eastern Montana.
In the 1970s and 1980s, the city began to develop new shopping malls and centers. Rimrock Mall was redeveloped and expanded, and the city absorbed large commercial developments. In the 1990s, Billings was awarded an All-America City Award. Today, Billings boasts a bustling retail scene, including more than a dozen large enclosed malls. There is a wide range of quality stores and services, and no sales tax.
Billings is home to many large ranches. Its wide-open prairies were home to a number of "homesteaders" who arrived in one freight car, and were given a forty-acre parcel of land. Today, Billings is an important refining and shipping hub. Its population is among the highest in the world. A large percentage of residents earn $100,000 or more per year.
The Billings area has many mountains for recreational activities. Residents enjoy skiing, hiking, hunting, fishing, and boating. Additionally, water recreation is abundant, with opportunities for boating, sailing, and kayaking. The city's parks feature swimming pools, athletic fields, and jogging paths. Several golf courses can also be found in Billings. Despite its small size, Billings has many things to offer its residents.