Top Paying Jobs in Montana
Montana has 100 tracked occupation categories totaling 67,850 jobs. The highest-paying occupations include Orthopedic Surgeons, Except Pediatric ($560,820), Physicians, All Other ($438,850), Radiologists ($360,330). The cost of living index is 97 (national average = 100). Median 2-bedroom rent is $1,129/month.
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State-level averages. Salaries, rent, and cost of living vary significantly between metros. For more accurate data, select a metro area from the list below or browse all metros.
$124K
Avg. median salary
97
Cost of living index
$1,129
Median 2BR rent
1,139,509
Population
Highest paying careers in Montana
| Rank | Occupation | Category | Median salary | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 31 | Database Architects | Technology | $110K | $52.88/hr |
| 32 | Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary | Education | $109K | N/A |
| 33 | Atmospheric and Space Scientists | Science | $109K | $52.35/hr |
| 34 | Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers | Management | $108K | $52.01/hr |
| 35 | Power Plant Operators | Production & Manufacturing | $106K | $50.98/hr |
| 36 | Medical and Health Services Managers | Management | $106K | $50.89/hr |
| 37 | Mining and Geological Engineers, Including Mining Safety Engineers | Engineering | $105K | $50.68/hr |
| 38 | Radiation Therapists | Healthcare | $105K | $50.67/hr |
| 39 | Construction Managers | Management | $104K | $50.23/hr |
| 40 | Industrial Engineers | Engineering | $104K | $50.21/hr |
Affordability snapshot: Montana
These are statewide averages. Costs vary widely between metros, click into a specific city for precise numbers.
Cost of living vs. national average-3.0% less expensive
2-bedroom apartment (FMR)$1,129/mo
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Metro areas in Montana
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Side-by-side salary and cost of living comparison
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Calculate take-home pay in Montana
After federal and state taxes
Can you afford a 2-bedroom in Montana?
Salary thresholds by HUD rent data
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Montana?
Monthly budget breakdown with HUD and BLS data