Optometrist Salary in Montana
The median optometrist salary in Montana is $116,799 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $125,590.
Optometrist Salary Overview in Montana (2026)
Montana ranks #28 out of 50 states for optometrist compensation. Optometrist salaries in Montana are below the national median, though the higher cost of living makes this gap more significant. At $116,799 per year, optometrists in Montana earn $8,791 less than the national median of $125,590.
Montana's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning optometrist salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Montana is significant: optometrists at the 10th percentile earn $72,540, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $178,560 — a $106,020 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 $141,917.
Nationally, optometrist employment is projected to grow 9% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for optometrists across the country.
Optometrist Salary in Montana by Experience
In Montana, an entry-level optometrist earns around $76,260, while experienced professionals earn up to $165,540 per year. The cost of living index in Montana is 95% of the national average.
You May Qualify for Premium Rewards
Professionals earning $116,799+ often qualify for premium rewards cards with $500+ signup bonuses and 2–5% cashback on every purchase.
View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Montana
| Percentile | MT Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $72,540 |
| 25th Percentile | $93,000 |
| Median (50th) | $116,799 |
| 75th Percentile | $146,940 |
| 90th Percentile | $178,560 |
Optometrist Salary by City in Montana
The largest employment areas for optometrists 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 Optometrist in Montana
Education
Most optometrist positions require a doctoral degree. Montana has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Montana
Nationally, optometrist employment is projected to grow 9% over the next decade (faster than average). Montana's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Optometrists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $48,741 over your career trajectory.
Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →Open to Optometrist Roles in Montana?
Get matched with recruiters hiring optometrists in Montana at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: