Montana Salaries 2025
Big Sky Country with no sales tax advantage
Median Household Income
Montana Salary Overview 2025
Montana, known as "Big Sky Country," has transformed from a quiet rural state into one of America's most desirable relocation destinations. The state's median household income of $60,500 sits below the national median, but this figure masks a rapidly changing economic landscape—particularly in Bozeman, which has emerged as a legitimate tech hub attracting remote workers, entrepreneurs, and outdoor enthusiasts willing to accept modest salary trade-offs for exceptional quality of life.
Montana offers the rare combination of no sales tax and access to world-class outdoor recreation—Yellowstone National Park, Glacier National Park, and millions of acres of wilderness. This combination has proven irresistible to a new generation of workers prioritizing lifestyle over maximum earnings. The influx of high-earning remote workers and relocating companies has created economic dynamism, though also significant housing cost increases in desirable areas.
The state's traditional industries—agriculture, mining, logging, and tourism—continue providing stable employment, while healthcare, education, and technology sectors grow to serve an expanding population. Workers considering Montana must balance generally lower salaries against no sales tax, outdoor lifestyle value, and varying cost of living (Bozeman expensive, eastern Montana very affordable). For comprehensive salary data, see salary trends 2025 and average US salary.
Montana Salary Snapshot
| Metric | Montana | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| Median Household Income | $60,500 | $74,580 |
| Mean Household Income | $78,000 | $97,300 |
| Per Capita Income | $34,200 | $37,638 |
| Minimum Wage (2025) | $10.30/hr | $7.25/hr (federal) |
| Cost of Living Index | 97 (3% below avg) | 100 |
| Sales Tax | 0% | Varies by state |
| Top Income Tax Rate | 5.9% | Varies by state |
Salaries by Montana Metro Area
Bozeman – Tech Hub & Outdoor Paradise
Median Household Income: $72,000
Bozeman has experienced explosive growth, transforming from a college town into Montana's economic powerhouse. Home to Montana State University, world-class skiing (Big Sky, Bridger Bowl), and proximity to Yellowstone, Bozeman attracts tech workers, entrepreneurs, and outdoor enthusiasts from across the country.
The tech scene, sometimes called "Silicon Prairie," includes companies like Oracle (acquired Bozeman-based RightNow Technologies), Workiva, Schedulicity, and numerous startups. Software engineers earn $80,000-$130,000, with senior roles and remote workers often exceeding $140,000. The influx of high earners has dramatically increased housing costs—median home prices now exceed $700,000, approaching coastal metro levels while salaries remain 15-25% below.
Missoula – University Town & Creative Hub
Median Household Income: $58,000
Missoula, home to the University of Montana, offers a vibrant arts scene, literary culture (home to many authors), and outdoor access. The economy centers on education, healthcare (Providence St. Patrick Hospital), and a growing craft brewing/distilling industry.
Salaries tend to run lower than Bozeman, reflecting the university-town economy. Faculty positions range from $55,000-$130,000; healthcare workers find competitive regional wages (RNs $58,000-$78,000). The creative economy attracts writers, artists, and remote workers accepting lower wages for lifestyle benefits. Housing, while expensive by Montana standards ($550,000 median), remains below Bozeman.
Billings – Montana's Largest City
Median Household Income: $62,000
Billings serves as Montana's largest city and the economic hub of the eastern half of the state. The economy centers on healthcare (Billings Clinic, St. Vincent Healthcare), energy (refineries, coal), agriculture, and regional services. Unlike western Montana's recreation economy, Billings offers more traditional employment.
Healthcare salaries are competitive: physicians $230,000-$400,000, nurses $55,000-$78,000. Energy sector engineers earn $75,000-$120,000. Housing remains relatively affordable ($375,000 median), providing better salary-to-cost ratio than western Montana metros.
Helena – State Capital
Median Household Income: $58,000
Helena's economy revolves around state government, with additional employment in healthcare and small business. Government positions follow Montana pay scales, generally competitive for the region but below federal rates. The smaller size limits private sector opportunities, though some remote workers have discovered Helena as an affordable alternative to Bozeman with mountain access.
Great Falls – Military & Healthcare
Median Household Income: $52,000
Great Falls' economy centers on Malmstrom Air Force Base and healthcare (Benefis Health System). Military and civilian federal positions provide stable employment with GS pay scales. The city offers Montana's most affordable housing among larger communities ($275,000 median), making it attractive for those prioritizing value over trendy locations.
| Metro Area | Median Income | Cost of Living | Key Industries |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bozeman | $72,000 | 125 | Tech, Tourism, Education |
| Missoula | $58,000 | 108 | Education, Healthcare, Arts |
| Billings | $62,000 | 95 | Healthcare, Energy, Agriculture |
| Helena | $58,000 | 98 | Government, Healthcare |
| Great Falls | $52,000 | 88 | Military, Healthcare |
Top Paying Industries in Montana
Technology
Montana's tech sector, concentrated in Bozeman, has grown substantially. Oracle maintains significant operations (from RightNow acquisition), while startups in outdoor tech, SaaS, and remote work tools have established footholds. Software engineers earn $75,000-$135,000, with senior engineers and those maintaining coastal remote salaries reaching $150,000+. The tech community, while small, offers networking and growth opportunities uncommon in rural states.
Healthcare
Healthcare is Montana's largest private employer, with major systems including Billings Clinic, Providence, and SCL Health serving dispersed populations. Rural healthcare faces persistent staffing challenges, creating opportunities with signing bonuses and loan forgiveness. Physicians earn $220,000-$400,000, nurses $55,000-$80,000, and specialists command premiums in underserved areas.
Energy & Natural Resources
Montana's energy sector includes coal mining (Colstrip), oil production (Bakken formation edge), wind power, and refining. These industries offer higher wages than Montana averages: equipment operators $55,000-$80,000, engineers $80,000-$120,000, geologists $70,000-$110,000. Environmental pressures on coal have created uncertainty, while renewable energy grows.
Tourism & Recreation
Tourism generates significant economic activity, particularly around Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks. Hospitality wages tend low ($30,000-$50,000 for most positions), but management roles in resorts and outfitters can reach $60,000-$100,000. The outdoor industry—guiding, gear retail, adventure tourism—employs many who accept lower wages for lifestyle benefits.
Agriculture & Ranching
Montana's agricultural sector (wheat, cattle, specialty crops) remains economically important. Farm and ranch managers earn $50,000-$90,000, with large operation managers and agribusiness professionals reaching $80,000-$130,000. Agricultural technology and precision farming create opportunities for tech-savvy workers in rural areas.
| Industry | Entry Level | Mid-Career | Senior Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Engineering | $65,000 | $95,000 | $130,000+ |
| Healthcare (Physicians) | $220,000 | $300,000 | $400,000+ |
| Energy Engineering | $65,000 | $90,000 | $120,000+ |
| Nursing (RN) | $52,000 | $65,000 | $80,000+ |
| Tourism Management | $38,000 | $55,000 | $85,000+ |
Montana Tax Analysis
Montana's tax structure features no sales tax—one of only five states with this benefit—combined with moderate income taxes. This creates meaningful savings, particularly for high-consumption households and retirees.
State Income Tax Brackets (2025)
Montana recently simplified its tax structure to a two-bracket system:
| Taxable Income | Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| $0 – $20,500 | 4.7% |
| $20,501+ | 5.9% |
No Sales Tax Benefit
Montana's 0% sales tax provides substantial savings compared to neighboring states:
• vs. Washington (6.5% + local): $3,250+/year on $50K spending
• vs. Idaho (6%): $3,000/year
• vs. Wyoming: Similar (no sales tax)
• vs. Colorado (2.9% + local ~8%): $4,000+/year
Tax Comparison: Montana vs. Neighboring States
| Annual Salary | MT Income Tax | Sales Tax Savings | Net Position |
|---|---|---|---|
| $60,000 | ~$3,100 | ~$2,500 | Moderate burden |
| $80,000 | ~$4,300 | ~$3,000 | Near neutral |
| $100,000 | ~$5,500 | ~$3,500 | Slight burden |
| $150,000 | ~$8,450 | ~$5,000 | Moderate burden |
Property Tax
Montana property taxes average 0.74% of home value—near the national average. However, the state offers property tax assistance programs for seniors, disabled veterans, and low-income homeowners. Bozeman's high home values ($700,000+) mean substantial property tax bills despite moderate rates.
Montana Cost of Living Analysis
Montana's statewide cost of living index of 97 (3% below average) obscures dramatic regional variation. Bozeman has become one of America's most expensive small cities, while eastern Montana remains highly affordable.
| Expense Category | Montana (Avg) | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| Housing Index | 108 | 100 |
| Median Home Price | $450,000 | $420,000 |
| Median Rent (2BR) | $1,350 | $1,400 |
| Groceries Index | 98 | 100 |
| Utilities Index | 92 | 100 |
| Transportation Index | 95 | 100 |
| Healthcare Index | 102 | 100 |
Housing by Metro (The Montana Divide)
| Metro Area | Median Home Price | Median Rent (2BR) | Housing Index |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bozeman | $725,000 | $2,100 | 165 |
| Missoula | $550,000 | $1,600 | 135 |
| Whitefish/Kalispell | $620,000 | $1,800 | 150 |
| Billings | $375,000 | $1,200 | 95 |
| Helena | $410,000 | $1,300 | 102 |
| Great Falls | $275,000 | $950 | 78 |
The Bozeman Premium
Bozeman's housing costs now rival coastal metros, creating a challenging equation for local workers. A household earning Montana's median income ($60,500) cannot afford Bozeman's median home ($725,000) by traditional lending standards. This dynamic has created a two-tier economy: high-earning remote workers and business owners who can afford Bozeman, and local workers increasingly commuting from Belgrade, Livingston, or Three Forks.
Affordable Montana Alternatives
Workers seeking Montana lifestyle at reasonable cost should consider:
• Great Falls: Most affordable larger city, military base provides stability
• Billings: Best salary-to-cost ratio among Montana cities
• Helena: Government employment, moderate costs, mountain access
• Butte: Historic mining town with very affordable housing, limited employment
Highest Paying Jobs in Montana 2025
| Occupation | Average Salary | Top 10% Earn |
|---|---|---|
| Physicians/Surgeons | $270,000 | $400,000+ |
| Dentists | $170,000 | $260,000+ |
| IT Directors | $125,000 | $165,000+ |
| Pharmacists | $120,000 | $145,000+ |
| Software Engineers | $95,000 | $135,000+ |
| Attorneys | $95,000 | $165,000+ |
| Petroleum Engineers | $105,000 | $150,000+ |
| Nurse Practitioners | $105,000 | $130,000+ |
| Financial Managers | $100,000 | $150,000+ |
| University Professors (Senior) | $95,000 | $140,000+ |
Montana Minimum Wage 2025
Montana's minimum wage of $10.30/hour (2025) exceeds the federal minimum and adjusts annually with inflation. This provides better baseline compensation than many neighboring states.
Minimum Wage Comparison
| State | Minimum Wage | Annual (Full-time) |
|---|---|---|
| Montana | $10.30 | $21,424 |
| Idaho | $7.25 | $15,080 |
| Wyoming | $7.25 | $15,080 |
| North Dakota | $7.25 | $15,080 |
| Washington | $16.28 | $33,862 |
Actual Entry-Level Wages
In practice, most Montana employers pay above minimum wage due to labor shortages, particularly in western Montana tourism areas:
| Position | Typical Starting Wage |
|---|---|
| Fast Food/Restaurant | $12.00 – $16.00/hr |
| Retail | $13.00 – $17.00/hr |
| Ski Resort (Seasonal) | $15.00 – $20.00/hr + perks |
| Hotel/Tourism | $14.00 – $18.00/hr |
| Healthcare Support | $15.00 – $19.00/hr |
Seasonal employers (ski resorts, national park concessionaires, guest ranches) often provide housing—a significant benefit given Montana's housing challenges.
Remote Work & Montana Lifestyle
Montana has become a top destination for remote workers seeking outdoor lifestyle. Understanding the trade-offs helps workers make informed decisions:
Remote Worker Profile
The typical Montana remote worker relocates from a coastal metro, maintains their previous salary (or accepts modest reduction), and prioritizes:
• Outdoor access (skiing, hiking, fishing, hunting)
• Lower stress, slower pace
• Natural beauty and clean environment
• Space and privacy
• No sales tax on purchases
Challenges to Consider
Housing: Bozeman/Missoula housing costs rival coastal metros; finding rentals is extremely competitive.
Isolation: Limited flight connections, long drives to major cities, winter weather constraints.
Services: Fewer shopping, dining, and entertainment options than metros; specialist medical care may require travel.
Career limitations: Limited local opportunities if remote work ends; networking harder in small communities.
Weather: Long, cold winters (October-April in mountains); adjustment required for coastal transplants.
Cost Arbitrage Example
| Expense | San Francisco | Billings, MT | Monthly Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (2BR) | $3,500 | $1,200 | $2,300 |
| Groceries | $800 | $650 | $150 |
| Sales Tax Savings | $350 | $0 | $350 |
| Transportation | $400 | $350 | $50 |
| Total Monthly | $5,050 | $2,200 | $2,850 |
A remote worker maintaining $150,000 San Francisco salary while living in Billings saves approximately $34,000 annually in living costs—though Bozeman savings would be substantially less due to high housing costs.
Best Montana Towns for Remote Workers
Budget-conscious: Billings, Great Falls, Helena—affordable housing, adequate amenities
Outdoor-focused with budget: Livingston (near Bozeman skiing, lower costs), Whitefish (if you can find housing), Red Lodge
Money is no object: Bozeman, Big Sky, Whitefish—premium pricing for premium locations
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I afford to live in Bozeman?
Bozeman requires high income or substantial savings. A household needs approximately $150,000+ annual income to comfortably afford median housing and living costs. Remote workers with coastal salaries, business owners, and dual-income professional households form the typical Bozeman demographic. Those earning Montana-level wages increasingly live in surrounding communities and commute.
Is Montana a good value for salary vs. cost of living?
It depends dramatically on location. Eastern Montana (Billings, Great Falls) offers excellent value with affordable housing and stable employment. Western Montana (Bozeman, Missoula, Whitefish) has become expensive, with housing costs outpacing local salaries. Remote workers maintaining high salaries can capture Montana lifestyle at reasonable cost in the right locations.
What's the job market like in Montana?
Montana maintains low unemployment but limited high-paying job opportunities outside healthcare and tech (primarily Bozeman). Workers relocating should ideally have remote work arrangements or skills in healthcare, education, or trades. Local job searches in competitive fields can be challenging due to the desirability of the location.
How cold does Montana get?
Montana winters are serious—January averages range from 15-25°F depending on location, with subzero temperatures common. Mountain areas receive substantial snow (ideal for skiing). The long winter (October-April with snow possible) requires adjustment for those from mild climates. Summer is spectacular with long days and moderate temperatures.
Is Montana good for retirement?
Montana offers appealing retirement features: no sales tax, outdoor recreation, natural beauty, and lower costs (outside western Montana). However, healthcare access can be limited in rural areas, winter weather is challenging, and desirable locations have become expensive. Many retirees find eastern Montana communities offer better value while maintaining quality healthcare access.
Should I move to Montana for lifestyle?
Montana rewards those who prioritize outdoor access and natural beauty over urban amenities and career maximization. The best candidates have remote work, substantial savings, or skills in demand locally. Be realistic about housing costs (especially Bozeman/Missoula), limited services, and winter weather. Visit in January before committing.