Mental Health Counselor Salary in Montana
Based on 2K+ workers in Montana
Median Annual Salary (MT)
$59,000
$28.37/hr
vs National Average
$59,385
-0.6% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$37K – $84K
2K employed in Montana
The median salary for a Mental Health Counselor in Montana is $59,000 per year, or approximately $28 per hour. This figure is slightly below the national average, with Montana's figures being 0.6% lower. Currently, there are around 1,820 Mental Health Counselors employed in the state.
Several factors can influence the Mental Health Counselor salary in Montana. Experience level is a significant determinant, with entry-level positions typically falling at the lower end of the salary range, while experienced professionals can earn closer to the upper bounds. Geographic location within Montana, the type of facility (e.g., private practice, community mental health center, hospital), and specific certifications or specializations also play a role in compensation.
Salary Distribution — Mental Health Counselor in Montana
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $36,840 |
| 25th percentile | $46,170 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $59,000 |
| 75th percentile | $74,010 |
| 90th percentile | $83,640 |
Top-Paying Industries for Mental Health Counselor (U.S.)
Which industries pay Mental Health Counselors the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Mental Health Counselors in Montana tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Finance and Insurance | $80,880 | 1K |
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $66,530 | 35K |
| Educational Services | $62,070 | 35K |
| Administrative and Support Services | $60,480 | 5K |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | $60,460 | 3K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Mental Health Counselor in Montana vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Montana) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $59,000 |
| 2026 (projected) | $60,770 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Montana Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $59,000 | $59,385 |
| 2026 (projected) | $60,770 | $61,167 |
Mental Health Counselor Salary by Experience Level in Montana
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $46,170 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $59,000 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $74,010 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $83,640 |
Mental Health Counselor Salary in Other States
Related Mental Health Counselor Salaries in Montana
How other high-demand occupations in Montana compare to Mental Health Counselor ($59,000 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Mental Health Counselor | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radiologist in MT | $360,330 | +510.7% | $173.24/hr |
| Family Medicine Physician in MT | $330,760 | +460.6% | $159.02/hr |
| Nurse Anesthetist in MT | $277,380 | +370.1% | $133.36/hr |
| Pediatrician in MT | $273,260 | +363.2% | $131.38/hr |
| Dentist in MT | $167,200 | +183.4% | $80.38/hr |
| Pharmacist in MT | $142,080 | +140.8% | $68.31/hr |
| Physician Assistant in MT | $141,470 | +139.8% | $68.01/hr |
| Nurse Practitioner in MT | $137,210 | +132.6% | $65.97/hr |
| Medical and Health Services Manager in MT | $105,840 | +79.4% | $50.88/hr |
| Optometrist in MT | $104,280 | +76.7% | $50.13/hr |
| Veterinarian in MT | $99,390 | +68.5% | $47.78/hr |
| Dental Hygienist in MT | $98,440 | +66.8% | $47.33/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Mental Health Counselor in Montana?
- The salary range for Mental Health Counselors in Montana generally falls between $36,840 and $83,640 annually. The median salary sits at $59,000 per year, providing a good benchmark for understanding compensation levels across the state.
How does the Mental Health Counselor salary in Montana compare to the national average?
- The Mental Health Counselor salary in Montana is slightly lower than the national average, by approximately 0.6%. While the median in Montana is $59,000 per year, the national median is often a bit higher, though exact national figures can vary.
How much do entry-level Mental Health Counselors make in Montana?
- Entry-level Mental Health Counselors in Montana can expect to earn around $36,840 per year. This represents the lower end of the salary spectrum, and with experience, earnings can significantly increase towards the $59,000 median and beyond.
Is it possible for a Mental Health Counselor in Montana to earn over $80,000 per year?
- Yes, experienced and highly qualified Mental Health Counselors in Montana can earn salaries above $80,000. The upper end of the salary range reaches $83,640 annually, indicating that top earners are well compensated.