Great Falls vs Missoula: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Great Falls, MT and Missoula, MT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Great Falls, MT | Missoula, MT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $132,566▲ | $129,987 |
| Hourly Rate | $63.73▲ | $62.50 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $76,888▲ | $75,392 |
| 25th Percentile | $102,763 | $105,505▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $164,167▲ | $157,916 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $201,756▲ | $192,736 |
| Total Employed | 12 | 16▲ |
Verdict
Great Falls, MT offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Missoula.
The salary gap between Great Falls and Missoula is $2,579 (1.98%). Great Falls's median is -5.72% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Great Falls spans $124,868,Missoula spans $117,344. Great Falls 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, Great Falls ($137,802 effective) pays 1.98% 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 Great Falls if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($132,566/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($201,756)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $137,802)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Choose Missoula if…
- ✓Larger job market (16 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Great Falls grew 4.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 4.8% growth in Missoula over the same period.
Great Falls, MT
$122,807 (2024) → $128,755 (2025)
Missoula, MT
$120,417 (2024) → $126,250 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Great Falls, MT
Missoula, MT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Great Falls or Missoula?
What is the hourly rate difference between Great Falls and Missoula?
Should I relocate from Great Falls to Missoula as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Great Falls vs Missoula?
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