Great Falls vs Missoula: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian 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 | $131,761▲ | $109,128 |
| Hourly Rate | $63.35▲ | $52.46 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $76,421▲ | $62,101 |
| 25th Percentile | $99,347▲ | $86,433 |
| 75th Percentile | $168,654▲ | $140,236 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $204,230▲ | $173,541 |
| Total Employed | 12 | 50▲ |
Verdict
Great Falls, MT offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Missoula.
The salary gap between Great Falls and Missoula is $22,633 (20.74%). Great Falls's median is -4.06% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Great Falls spans $127,809,Missoula spans $111,440. 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 ($136,966 effective) pays 21.05% more than Missoula ($113,151 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 ($131,761/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($204,230)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $136,966)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Choose Missoula if…
- ✓Larger job market (50 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Great Falls grew 100.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 40.3% growth in Missoula over the same period.
Great Falls, MT
$62,190 (2019) → $124,821 (2025)
Missoula, MT
$73,700 (2019) → $103,380 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Great Falls, MT
Missoula, MT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Great Falls or Missoula?
What is the hourly rate difference between Great Falls and Missoula?
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Written by Dr. Alice Nguyen, DVM
Career Analyst
Dr. Alice Nguyen has 10 years of experience in veterinary medicine. She specializes in small animal surgery. She currently works at a suburban veterinary clinic.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.56% 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 Dr. Alice Nguyen, DVM, a licensed veterinarian with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov