Registered Nurse Salary in Montana
The median registered nurse salary in Montana is $75,535 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $81,220.
Registered Nurse Salary Overview in Montana (2026)
Montana ranks #28 out of 50 states for registered nurse compensation. Registered Nurse salaries in Montana are below the national median, though the higher cost of living makes this gap more significant. At $75,535 per year, registered nurses in Montana earn $5,685 less than the national median of $81,220.
Montana's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning registered nurse salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Montana is significant: registered nurses at the 10th percentile earn $53,382, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $112,344 — a $58,962 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 $91,779.
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for registered nurses across the country.
Registered Nurse Salary in Montana by Experience
In Montana, an entry-level registered nurse earns around $53,940, while experienced professionals earn up to $106,950 per year. The cost of living index in Montana is 95% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Montana
| Percentile | MT Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $53,382 |
| 25th Percentile | $62,124 |
| Median (50th) | $75,535 |
| 75th Percentile | $94,023 |
| 90th Percentile | $112,344 |
Registered Nurse Salary by City in Montana
The largest employment areas for registered nurses 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 Registered Nurse in Montana
Education
Most registered nurse positions require a bachelor's degree. Montana has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Montana
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Montana's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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Data shows Registered Nurses who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $31,415 over your career trajectory.
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