Crane Operator Salary in Great Falls, Montana
The median crane operator salary in Great Falls, MT is $56,628 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 7.4% below the Montana state average.
Crane Operator Pay in Great Falls: What to Expect (2026)
Great Falls offers a median crane operator salary of $56,628, which is $4,505 below the Montana state average of $61,133. Compared to the national median of $64,350, Great Falls pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Great Falls's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $56,628 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $64,350 in an average-cost city. This makes Great Falls an attractive option for crane operators seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for crane operators in Great Falls spans from $35,200 at the 10th percentile to $88,000 at the 90th percentile — a $52,800 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $36,960, while senior crane operators with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $83,600. Great Falls is a smaller market (pop. 60,442), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Crane Operator Salary in Great Falls by Experience
In Great Falls, an entry-level crane operator earns around $36,960, while experienced professionals earn up to $83,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Great Falls, MT
| Percentile | Great Falls |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $35,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $44,000 |
| Median (50th) | $56,628 |
| 75th Percentile | $72,160 |
| 90th Percentile | $88,000 |
Crane Operator Salary in Other Montana Cities
How to Become a Crane Operator in Great Falls
Education
Most crane operator positions require a high school diploma. Great Falls and the surrounding Montana area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, crane operator employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Great Falls may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Crane Operator Jobs in Great Falls
Browse open crane operator positions in Great Falls, MT: