Healthcare Montana (MT) Rank #28 of 50

Dental Hygienist Salary in Montana

The median dental hygienist salary in Montana is $75,702 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $81,400.

Median Salary
$75,702
vs National
$-5,698
State Rank
#28 of 50
Cost of Living
95%

Dental Hygienist Salary Overview in Montana (2026)

Montana ranks #28 out of 50 states for dental hygienist compensation. Dental Hygienist salaries in Montana are below the national median, though the higher cost of living makes this gap more significant. At $75,702 per year, dental hygienists in Montana earn $5,698 less than the national median of $81,400.

Montana's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning dental hygienist salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.

The salary spread in Montana is significant: dental hygienists at the 10th percentile earn $54,126, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $100,626 — a $46,500 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Montana for this role is Bozeman, where the median reaches $91,982.

Nationally, dental hygienist employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for dental hygienists across the country.

Dental Hygienist Salary in Montana by Experience

In Montana, an entry-level dental hygienist earns around $51,150, while experienced professionals earn up to $97,650 per year. The cost of living index in Montana is 95% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$51,150
$-3,850 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$74,400
$-5,600 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$97,650
$-7,350 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Montana

Percentile MT Salary
10th Percentile $54,126
25th Percentile $62,868
Median (50th) $75,702
75th Percentile $91,140
90th Percentile $100,626

Dental Hygienist Salary by City in Montana

The largest employment areas for dental hygienists in Montana include Billings, Missoula, Great Falls, and Bozeman. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Dental Hygienist in Montana

Education

Most dental hygienist positions require a associate's degree. Montana has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Dental CleaningX-ray ImagingPatient EducationPeriodontal AssessmentInfection ControlDental Software

Job Outlook in Montana

Nationally, dental hygienist employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). Montana's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Dental Hygienist Salary in Montana

How much does a Dental Hygienist make in Montana? ▼
The median dental hygienist salary in Montana is $75,702 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $81,400. Salaries range from $54,126 (10th percentile) to $100,626 (90th percentile).
How much does a Dental Hygienist make per hour in Montana? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $75,702, a dental hygienist in Montana earns approximately $36 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Montana a good state for dental hygienists? ▼
Montana ranks #28 out of 50 states for dental hygienist pay. The cost of living index is 95% of the national average. Entry-level dental hygienists earn $51,150, while senior professionals earn $97,650.
How does Montana compare to other states for dental hygienist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for dental hygienists is Hawaii at $144,892. Montana's median of $75,702 ranks #28 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Wisconsin ($76,516) and Georgia ($75,702).
What is the entry-level dental hygienist salary in Montana? ▼
An entry-level dental hygienist in Montana earns approximately $51,150 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $74,400. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $97,650.
What city in Montana pays dental hygienists the most? ▼
Bozeman is the highest paying city in Montana for dental hygienists, with a median salary of $91,982. Other cities include Billings and Missoula.