School Counselor Salary in Montana
The median school counselor salary in Montana is $57,133 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $60,140.
School Counselor Salary Overview in Montana (2026)
Montana ranks #25 out of 50 states for school counselor compensation. Montana falls in the middle of the pack for school counselor pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $57,133 per year, school counselors in Montana earn $3,007 less than the national median of $60,140.
Montana's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning school counselor salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Montana is significant: school counselors at the 10th percentile earn $36,290, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $90,060 — a $53,770 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 $69,161.
Nationally, school counselor employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for school counselors across the country.
School Counselor Salary in Montana by Experience
In Montana, an entry-level school counselor earns around $38,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $80,750 per year. The cost of living index in Montana is 95% of the national average.
Save More on Student Loans
Earning $57,133? You may qualify for student loan refinancing rates as low as 4.49% — potentially saving $14,000+ over the life of your loan.
Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Montana
| Percentile | MT Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $36,290 |
| 25th Percentile | $44,650 |
| Median (50th) | $57,133 |
| 75th Percentile | $72,390 |
| 90th Percentile | $90,060 |
School Counselor Salary by City in Montana
The largest employment areas for school counselors 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 School Counselor in Montana
Education
Most school counselor positions require a master's degree. Montana has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Montana
Nationally, school counselor employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Montana's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
85% of recruiters say a professionally written resume increases interview rates by 40%. Stand out from 354,600 other School Counselors.
Get a Professional Resume →Open to School Counselor Roles in Montana?
Get matched with recruiters hiring school counselors in Montana at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: