Technology Montana (MT) Rank #31 of 50

Systems Administrator Salary in Montana

The median systems administrator salary in Montana is $77,177 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $84,810.

Median Salary
$77,177
vs National
$-7,633
State Rank
#31 of 50
Cost of Living
95%

Systems Administrator Salary Overview in Montana (2026)

Montana ranks #31 out of 50 states for systems administrator compensation. Systems Administrator salaries in Montana are below the national median, though the higher cost of living makes this gap more significant. At $77,177 per year, systems administrators in Montana earn $7,633 less than the national median of $84,810.

Montana's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning systems administrator salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.

The salary spread in Montana is significant: systems administrators at the 10th percentile earn $47,320, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $120,120 — a $72,800 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 $94,139.

Nationally, systems administrator employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for systems administrators across the country.

Systems Administrator Salary in Montana by Experience

In Montana, an entry-level systems administrator earns around $50,050, while experienced professionals earn up to $113,750 per year. The cost of living index in Montana is 95% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$50,050
$-4,950 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$78,260
$-7,740 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$113,750
$-11,250 vs national

Build Wealth on Your Income

With a $77,177 income, financial advisors recommend investing 15–20% annually. Start building a diversified portfolio with as little as $10.

See Investment Options →

Salary Percentiles in Montana

Percentile MT Salary
10th Percentile $47,320
25th Percentile $60,970
Median (50th) $77,177
75th Percentile $98,280
90th Percentile $120,120

Systems Administrator Salary by City in Montana

The largest employment areas for systems administrators 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 Systems Administrator in Montana

Education

Most systems administrator positions require a bachelor's degree. Montana has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

LinuxWindows ServerActive DirectoryNetworkingVirtualizationScripting

Job Outlook in Montana

Nationally, systems administrator employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Montana's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay

Data shows Systems Administrators who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $36,573 over your career trajectory.

Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →

Open to Systems Administrator Roles in Montana?

Get matched with recruiters hiring systems administrators in Montana at competitive salaries.

Or browse positions directly:

Frequently Asked Questions: Systems Administrator Salary in Montana

How much does a Systems Administrator make in Montana? ▼
The median systems administrator salary in Montana is $77,177 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $84,810. Salaries range from $47,320 (10th percentile) to $120,120 (90th percentile).
How much does a Systems Administrator make per hour in Montana? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $77,177, a systems administrator in Montana earns approximately $37 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Montana a good state for systems administrators? ▼
Montana ranks #31 out of 50 states for systems administrator pay. The cost of living index is 95% of the national average. Entry-level systems administrators earn $50,050, while senior professionals earn $113,750.
How does Montana compare to other states for systems administrator salary? ▼
The highest paying state for systems administrators is Hawaii at $139,937. Montana's median of $77,177 ranks #31 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include New Mexico ($78,873) and Wisconsin ($78,025).
What is the entry-level systems administrator salary in Montana? ▼
An entry-level systems administrator in Montana earns approximately $50,050 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $78,260. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $113,750.
What city in Montana pays systems administrators the most? ▼
Bozeman is the highest paying city in Montana for systems administrators, with a median salary of $94,139. Other cities include Billings and Missoula.