Skip to content
AffordMap
Production & Manufacturing · Montana

How to Become a Machinists in Montana

Machinists in Montana earn a median salary of $61,230/year, which is 9% above the national average. Montana has a state income tax of ~4.1%. After taxes and rent, a machinists takes home approximately $2,649/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$61K
Median salary in Montana
+9%
vs. national average
4.1%
State income tax
680
Employed in Montana

What a machinists can afford in Montana

Gross annual salary$61,230
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.1% state tax)$4,061/mo
Median 2BR rent (Montana)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home34.8% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$61,230/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,649/mo

Becoming a machinists in Montana

1

Meet education requirements

Machinists positions in Montana typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Montana. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many machinists positions in Montana require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Montana licensure or certification

Montana may require specific licensing or professional certification for machinistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Montana Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Montana

Montana employs 680 machinists. The highest concentrations are in Bozeman and Missoula.

Machinists salary by metro area in Montana

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Bozeman$64K$30.97/hr60
Missoula$63K$30.18/hr40
Billings$55K$26.28/hr110
Great Falls$52K$24.99/hr30

Machinists salary range in Montana

10th percentile (entry)
$36K
25th percentile
$42K
Median (50th)
$61K
75th percentile
$69K
90th percentile (senior)
$73K
View jobs for Machinists
Currently hiring in Montana
View →
More openings for Machinists
Currently hiring in Montana
View →
Find accredited trade programs
Apprenticeship and certification paths
View →
Full machinists salary breakdown in Montana
Percentiles, trends, and comparisons
View →
Calculate take-home pay in Montana
After federal + 4.1% state tax
Calculate →
Compare Montana cost of living to other states
See where your salary goes further
Compare →

Machinists careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a machinists make in Montana?

The median machinists salary in Montana is $61,230 per year ($29.44/hr). This is 9% above the national median of $56,150. Salaries range from $36,070 to $72,980.

What are the requirements to become a machinists in Montana?

Machinists positions in Montana typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Montana may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Montana licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a machinists afford to live in Montana?

At the median salary of $61,230, a machinists in Montana would take home approximately $4,061/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 34.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for machinists in Montana?

The highest paying metro areas for machinists in Montana are Bozeman ($64,420), Missoula ($62,780), Billings ($54,670). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Montana have state income tax for machinists?

Yes, Montana has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.1%. On a $61,230 salary, this means roughly $2,505/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.