Bozeman vs Helena: Data Analyst Salary (2026)
Compare data analyst salaries between Bozeman, MT and Helena, MT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bozeman, MT | Helena, MT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $80,575▲ | $47,399 |
| Hourly Rate | $38.74▲ | $22.79 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $44,888▲ | $28,264 |
| 25th Percentile | $55,681▲ | $34,767 |
| 75th Percentile | $95,687▲ | $60,672 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $116,075▲ | $73,469 |
| Total Employed | 50▲ | 7 |
Verdict
Bozeman, MT offers better overall compensation for data analysts, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Helena.
The salary gap between Bozeman and Helena is $33,176 (69.99%). Bozeman's median is +0.23% compared to the US national median of $80,394.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bozeman spans $71,187,Helena spans $45,205. 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 ($78,602 effective) pays 59.53% more than Helena ($49,271 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 ($80,575/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($116,075)
- ✓Larger job market (50 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $78,602)
- ✓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, data analyst salaries in Bozeman grew -32.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -45.3% growth in Helena over the same period.
Bozeman, MT
$114,620 (2024) → $77,120 (2025)
Helena, MT
$82,911 (2024) → $45,367 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bozeman, MT
Helena, MT
Frequently Asked Questions
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Written by Aisha Patel, MA, Certified Data Analyst
Career Analyst
Aisha has 10 years of experience in data analysis. She specializes in business intelligence and works at a tech consulting firm.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.48% 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, MA, Certified Data Analyst, a licensed data analyst with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov