Tax Preparer Salary in Montana
The median tax preparer salary in Montana is $43,976 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $46,290.
Tax Preparer Salary Overview in Montana (2026)
Montana ranks #26 out of 50 states for tax preparer compensation. Tax Preparer salaries in Montana are below the national median, though the higher cost of living makes this gap more significant. At $43,976 per year, tax preparers in Montana earn $2,314 less than the national median of $46,290.
Montana's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning tax preparer salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Montana is significant: tax preparers at the 10th percentile earn $23,750, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $83,600 — a $59,850 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 $53,233.
Nationally, tax preparer employment is projected to grow 2% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for tax preparers across the country.
Tax Preparer Salary in Montana by Experience
In Montana, an entry-level tax preparer earns around $26,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $77,900 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 | $23,750 |
| 25th Percentile | $30,400 |
| Median (50th) | $43,976 |
| 75th Percentile | $61,750 |
| 90th Percentile | $83,600 |
Tax Preparer Salary by City in Montana
The largest employment areas for tax preparers 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 Tax Preparer in Montana
Education
Most tax preparer positions require a high school diploma. Montana has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Montana
Nationally, tax preparer employment is projected to grow 2% 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 Tax Preparers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $33,924 over your career trajectory.
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