Billings vs Missoula: Civil Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare civil engineer 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 | $99,561▲ | $86,640 |
| Hourly Rate | $47.87▲ | $41.66 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $62,163 | $69,634▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $78,758 | $78,789▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $113,950▲ | $105,658 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $138,581▲ | $128,462 |
| Total Employed | 400▲ | 290 |
Verdict
Billings, MT offers better overall compensation for civil engineers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Missoula.
The salary gap between Billings and Missoula is $12,921 (14.91%). Billings's median is -3.80% compared to the US national median of $103,492.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Billings spans $76,418,Missoula spans $58,828. 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 ($106,453 effective) pays 18.50% more than Missoula ($89,834 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 ($99,561/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($138,581)
- ✓Larger job market (400 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $106,453)
- ✓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, civil engineer salaries in Billings grew 12.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 9.6% growth in Missoula over the same period.
Billings, MT
$86,050 (2019) → $97,010 (2025)
Missoula, MT
$77,020 (2019) → $84,420 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Billings, MT
Missoula, MT
Frequently Asked Questions
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Written by Jordan Chen, P.E.
Career Analyst
Jordan Chen has 10 years of experience in structural engineering. He works primarily in urban infrastructure projects.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.63% 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 Jordan Chen, P.E., a licensed civil engineer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov