Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Montana
The median substance abuse counselor salary in Montana is $46,230 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $49,710.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary Overview in Montana (2026)
Montana ranks #28 out of 50 states for substance abuse counselor compensation. Substance Abuse Counselor salaries in Montana are below the national median, though the higher cost of living makes this gap more significant. At $46,230 per year, substance abuse counselors in Montana earn $3,480 less than the national median of $49,710.
Montana's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning substance abuse counselor salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Montana is significant: substance abuse counselors at the 10th percentile earn $27,900, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $76,260 — a $48,360 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 $56,172.
Nationally, substance abuse counselor employment is projected to grow 22% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Montana and beyond.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Montana by Experience
In Montana, an entry-level substance abuse counselor earns around $30,690, while experienced professionals earn up to $72,540 per year. The cost of living index in Montana is 95% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Montana
| Percentile | MT Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $27,900 |
| 25th Percentile | $35,340 |
| Median (50th) | $46,230 |
| 75th Percentile | $60,450 |
| 90th Percentile | $76,260 |
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary by City in Montana
The largest employment areas for substance abuse 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 Substance Abuse Counselor in Montana
Education
Most substance abuse counselor positions require a bachelor's degree. Montana has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Montana
Nationally, substance abuse counselor employment is projected to grow 22% over the next decade (much 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 338,100 other Substance Abuse Counselors.
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