Billings vs Helena: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer 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 | $111,082▲ | $98,711 |
| Hourly Rate | $53.41▲ | $47.46 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $78,610▲ | $74,270 |
| 25th Percentile | $85,310▲ | $81,987 |
| 75th Percentile | $136,637▲ | $126,350 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $163,488▲ | $151,257 |
| Total Employed | 120▲ | 7 |
Verdict
Billings, MT offers better overall compensation for mechanical engineers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Helena.
The salary gap between Billings and Helena is $12,371 (12.53%). Billings's median is +3.67% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Billings spans $84,878,Helena spans $76,987. 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 ($118,771 effective) pays 15.75% more than Helena ($102,610 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 ($111,082/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($163,488)
- ✓Larger job market (120 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $118,771)
- ✓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, mechanical engineer salaries in Billings grew 20.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 18.3% growth in Helena over the same period.
Billings, MT
$89,630 (2019) → $107,930 (2025)
Helena, MT
$81,069 (2024) → $95,910 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Billings, MT
Helena, MT
Frequently Asked Questions
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Written by Amina Patel, PE
Career Analyst
Amina has 10 years of experience in mechanical engineering. She specializes in thermal analysis and works in the automotive industry.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.92% 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 Amina Patel, PE, a licensed mechanical engineer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov