Bozeman vs Missoula: Phlebotomist Salary (2026)
Compare phlebotomist salaries between Bozeman, MT and Missoula, MT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bozeman, MT | Missoula, MT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $47,512▲ | $44,460 |
| Hourly Rate | $22.84▲ | $21.38 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $36,958▲ | $36,244 |
| 25th Percentile | $45,046▲ | $38,012 |
| 75th Percentile | $53,865▲ | $48,356 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $67,177▲ | $57,883 |
| Total Employed | 30▲ | 16 |
Verdict
Bozeman, MT offers better overall compensation for phlebotomists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Missoula.
The salary gap between Bozeman and Missoula is $3,052 (6.86%). Bozeman's median is +0.53% compared to the US national median of $47,261.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bozeman spans $30,219,Missoula spans $21,639. Bozeman 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, Bozeman ($46,349 effective) pays 0.29% more than Missoula ($46,216 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bozeman if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($47,512/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($67,177)
- ✓Larger job market (30 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $46,349)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Choose Missoula if…
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, phlebotomist salaries in Bozeman grew -3.6% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 40.2% growth in Missoula over the same period.
Bozeman, MT
$47,160 (2024) → $45,470 (2025)
Missoula, MT
$30,340 (2019) → $42,550 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bozeman, MT
Missoula, MT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays phlebotomists more: Bozeman or Missoula?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bozeman and Missoula?
Should I relocate from Bozeman to Missoula as a phlebotomist?
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Written by Aisha Patel, MLT
Career Analyst
Aisha has over 10 years of experience in clinical laboratory technology. She specializes in blood collection and processing. She works in a large urban hospital.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.49% 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 Aisha Patel, MLT, a licensed phlebotomist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov