Judge Salary in Montana
The median judge salary in Montana is $140,629 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $148,030.
Judge Salary Overview in Montana (2026)
Montana ranks #25 out of 50 states for judge compensation. Montana falls in the middle of the pack for judge pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $140,629 per year, judges in Montana earn $7,401 less than the national median of $148,030.
Montana's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning judge salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Montana is significant: judges at the 10th percentile earn $55,100, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $218,500 — a $163,400 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 $170,235.
Nationally, judge employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for judges across the country.
Judge Salary in Montana by Experience
In Montana, an entry-level judge earns around $61,750, while experienced professionals earn up to $204,250 per year. The cost of living index in Montana is 95% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Montana
| Percentile | MT Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $55,100 |
| 25th Percentile | $85,500 |
| Median (50th) | $140,629 |
| 75th Percentile | $185,250 |
| 90th Percentile | $218,500 |
Judge Salary by City in Montana
The largest employment areas for judges 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 Judge in Montana
Education
Most judge positions require a doctoral degree. Montana has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Montana
Nationally, judge employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Montana's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Judges who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $63,621 over your career trajectory.
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