Great Falls vs Missoula: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer 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 | $102,803▲ | $92,350 |
| Hourly Rate | $49.42▲ | $44.40 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $70,120▲ | $64,490 |
| 25th Percentile | $80,413▲ | $77,910 |
| 75th Percentile | $131,587▲ | $123,329 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $159,344▲ | $130,852 |
| Total Employed | 12 | 80▲ |
Verdict
Great Falls, MT offers better overall compensation for mechanical engineers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Missoula.
The salary gap between Great Falls and Missoula is $10,453 (11.32%). Great Falls's median is -4.06% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Great Falls spans $89,224,Missoula spans $66,362. 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 ($106,864 effective) pays 11.60% more than Missoula ($95,754 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 ($102,803/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($159,344)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $106,864)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Choose Missoula if…
- ✓Larger job market (80 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Great Falls grew 22.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 41.7% growth in Missoula over the same period.
Great Falls, MT
$81,660 (2019) → $99,886 (2025)
Missoula, MT
$63,330 (2019) → $89,730 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Great Falls, MT
Missoula, MT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Great Falls or Missoula?
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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