Great Falls vs Missoula: Massage Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare massage therapist 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 | $59,461▲ | $58,304 |
| Hourly Rate | $28.59▲ | $28.03 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $34,487 | $34,962▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $42,812 | $43,990▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $76,109▲ | $74,629 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $92,163▲ | $90,370 |
| Total Employed | 12 | 16▲ |
Verdict
Great Falls, MT offers better overall compensation for massage therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Missoula.
The salary gap between Great Falls and Missoula is $1,157 (1.98%). Great Falls's median is -4.06% compared to the US national median of $61,975.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Great Falls spans $57,676,Missoula spans $55,408. 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 ($61,810 effective) pays 1.98% more than Missoula ($60,607 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 ($59,461/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($92,163)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $61,810)
- ✓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, massage therapist salaries in Great Falls grew 8.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -1.2% growth in Missoula over the same period.
Great Falls, MT
$51,809 (2024) → $56,079 (2025)
Missoula, MT
$55,650 (2019) → $54,988 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Great Falls, MT
Missoula, MT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays massage therapists 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 massage therapist?
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Written by Jordan Lee, LMT
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has 10 years of experience in massage therapy. They specialize in sports massage. They work in a wellness center.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 6.03% 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 Lee, LMT, a licensed massage therapist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov