Billings vs Missoula: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Billings, MT and Missoula, MT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Billings, MT | Missoula, MT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $137,059▲ | $129,987 |
| Hourly Rate | $65.89▲ | $62.50 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,494▲ | $75,392 |
| 25th Percentile | $107,401▲ | $105,505 |
| 75th Percentile | $165,573▲ | $157,916 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $202,209▲ | $192,736 |
| Total Employed | 26▲ | 16 |
Verdict
Billings, MT offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Missoula.
The salary gap between Billings and Missoula is $7,072 (5.44%). Billings's median is -2.53% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Billings spans $122,715,Missoula spans $117,344. Billings has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Billings ($142,473 effective) pays 5.44% more than Missoula ($135,122 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Billings if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($137,059/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($202,209)
- ✓Larger job market (26 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $142,473)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Choose Missoula if…
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Billings grew 73.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 4.8% growth in Missoula over the same period.
Billings, MT
$76,920 (2019) → $133,119 (2025)
Missoula, MT
$120,417 (2024) → $126,250 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Billings, MT
Missoula, MT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Billings or Missoula?
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Written by Aisha Patel, OD
Career Analyst
Aisha Patel has 10 years of experience in optometry. She specializes in pediatric vision care. Aisha works in a private practice setting.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.96% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Aisha Patel, OD, a licensed optometrist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov