Great Falls vs Missoula: Elementary School Teacher Salary (2026)
Compare elementary school teacher 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 | $48,794 | $58,811▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $23.46 | $28.27▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $38,362 | $38,544▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $46,905 | $47,663▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $62,729 | $73,493▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $76,250 | $84,853▲ |
| Total Employed | 310 | 490▲ |
Verdict
Missoula, MT offers better overall compensation for elementary school teachers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Great Falls.
The salary gap between Great Falls and Missoula is $10,017 (20.53%). Missoula's median is -8.96% compared to the US national median of $64,597.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Great Falls spans $37,888,Missoula spans $46,309. Missoula has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced elementary school teachers.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Missoula ($60,979 effective) pays 21.03% more than Great Falls ($50,384 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Great Falls if…
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Choose Missoula if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($58,811/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($84,853)
- ✓Larger job market (490 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $60,979)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, elementary school teacher salaries in Great Falls grew -1.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 13.2% growth in Missoula over the same period.
Great Falls, MT
$49,010 (2019) → $48,320 (2025)
Missoula, MT
$51,440 (2019) → $58,240 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Great Falls, MT
Missoula, MT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays elementary school teachers 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 elementary school teacher?
What do entry-level elementary school teachers earn in Great Falls vs Missoula?
Written by Jordan Lee, M.Ed.
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has over 10 years of experience in elementary education. They focus on curriculum development and teaching methodologies. Their experience includes working in public schools.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 0.98% 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 Jordan Lee, M.Ed., a licensed elementary school teacher with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov