Great Falls vs Missoula: Anesthesiologist Salary (2026)
Compare anesthesiologist salaries between Great Falls, MT and Missoula, MT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Great Falls, MT | Missoula, MT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $465,345▲ | $456,291 |
| Hourly Rate | $223.72▲ | $219.37 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $269,899▲ | $264,648 |
| 25th Percentile | $335,048▲ | $328,529 |
| 75th Percentile | $595,642▲ | $574,375 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $681,554▲ | $650,407 |
| Total Employed | 12 | 16▲ |
Verdict
Great Falls, MT offers better overall compensation for anesthesiologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Missoula.
The salary gap between Great Falls and Missoula is $9,054 (1.98%). Great Falls's median is +13.75% compared to the US national median of $409,107.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Great Falls spans $411,655,Missoula spans $385,759. Great Falls 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, Great Falls ($483,727 effective) pays 1.98% more than Missoula ($474,315 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Great Falls if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($465,345/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($681,554)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $483,727)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Choose Missoula if…
- ✓Larger job market (16 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, anesthesiologist salaries in Great Falls grew 34.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 34.5% growth in Missoula over the same period.
Great Falls, MT
$331,003 (2024) → $445,306 (2025)
Missoula, MT
$324,563 (2024) → $436,642 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Great Falls, MT
Missoula, MT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays anesthesiologists more: Great Falls or Missoula?
What is the hourly rate difference between Great Falls and Missoula?
Should I relocate from Great Falls to Missoula as a anesthesiologist?
What do entry-level anesthesiologists earn in Great Falls vs Missoula?
Written by Dr. Maria Chen, MD
Career Analyst
Dr. Chen has over 10 years of experience in anesthesiology. She specializes in perioperative care at a major metropolitan hospital.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.50% 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 anesthesiologist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov