Billings vs Helena: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Billings, MT and Helena, MT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Billings, MT | Helena, MT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $532,140▲ | $494,206 |
| Hourly Rate | $255.83▲ | $237.59 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $308,641▲ | $286,640 |
| 25th Percentile | $383,141▲ | $355,828 |
| 75th Percentile | $639,232▲ | $598,368 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $748,155▲ | $677,636 |
| Total Employed | 26▲ | 7 |
Verdict
Billings, MT offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Helena.
The salary gap between Billings and Helena is $37,934 (7.68%). Billings's median is +20.42% compared to the US national median of $441,903.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Billings spans $439,514,Helena spans $390,996. Billings has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Billings ($553,160 effective) pays 7.68% more than Helena ($513,728 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Billings if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($532,140/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($748,155)
- ✓Larger job market (26 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $553,160)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Choose Helena if…
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Billings grew 48.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 48.1% growth in Helena over the same period.
Billings, MT
$342,221 (2024) → $506,800 (2025)
Helena, MT
$317,825 (2024) → $470,672 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Billings, MT
Helena, MT
Frequently Asked Questions
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Written by Dr. Maria Chen, MD
Career Analyst
Dr. Chen has 10 years of experience in diagnostic radiology. She specializes in imaging techniques for oncology. She works at a regional medical center.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.00% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Dr. Maria Chen, MD, a licensed radiologist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov