Butte vs Missoula: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Butte, MT and Missoula, MT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Butte, MT | Missoula, MT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $501,534 | $504,681▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $241.12 | $242.63▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $290,890 | $292,715▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $361,104 | $363,370▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $605,107 | $609,721▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $701,928 | $713,967▲ |
| Total Employed | 7 | 16▲ |
Verdict
Missoula, MT offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Butte.
The salary gap between Butte and Missoula is $3,147 (0.63%). Missoula's median is +14.21% compared to the US national median of $441,903.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Butte spans $411,038,Missoula spans $421,252. Missoula has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced radiologists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Missoula ($524,616 effective) pays 0.63% more than Butte ($521,345 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Butte if…
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Choose Missoula if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($504,681/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($713,967)
- ✓Larger job market (16 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $524,616)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Butte grew 48.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 48.1% growth in Missoula over the same period.
Butte, MT
$322,539 (2024) → $477,651 (2025)
Missoula, MT
$324,563 (2024) → $480,649 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Missoula, 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