Optometrist Salary in Helena, Montana
The median optometrist salary in Helena, MT is $115,543 per year, which is 8% below the national median and 1.1% below the Montana state average.
Optometrist Pay in Helena: What to Expect (2026)
Helena offers a median optometrist salary of $115,543, which is $1,256 below the Montana state average of $116,799. Compared to the national median of $125,590, Helena pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Helena's cost of living is 94% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for optometrists in Helena spans from $71,760 at the 10th percentile to $176,640 at the 90th percentile — a $104,880 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $75,440, while senior optometrists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $163,760. Helena is a smaller market (pop. 32,315), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Optometrist Salary in Helena by Experience
In Helena, an entry-level optometrist earns around $75,440, while experienced professionals earn up to $163,760 per year. The local cost of living index is 94% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Helena, MT
| Percentile | Helena |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $71,760 |
| 25th Percentile | $92,000 |
| Median (50th) | $115,543 |
| 75th Percentile | $145,360 |
| 90th Percentile | $176,640 |
Optometrist Salary in Other Montana Cities
How to Become a Optometrist in Helena
Education
Most optometrist positions require a doctoral degree. Helena and the surrounding Montana area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, optometrist employment is projected to grow 9% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Helena may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Optometrist Jobs in Helena
Browse open optometrist positions in Helena, MT: