Billings vs Butte: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Billings, MT and Butte, MT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Billings, MT | Butte, MT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $104,838▲ | $98,809 |
| Hourly Rate | $50.41▲ | $47.51 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $60,807▲ | $57,310 |
| 25th Percentile | $75,483▲ | $73,588 |
| 75th Percentile | $134,193▲ | $126,475 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $162,500▲ | $153,154 |
| Total Employed | 26▲ | 7 |
Verdict
Billings, MT offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Butte.
The salary gap between Billings and Butte is $6,029 (6.10%). Billings's median is -0.81% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Billings spans $101,693,Butte spans $95,844. 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 ($108,979 effective) pays 6.10% more than Butte ($102,712 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 ($104,838/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($162,500)
- ✓Larger job market (26 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $108,979)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Choose Butte if…
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Billings grew 0.9% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 13.4% growth in Butte over the same period.
Billings, MT
$98,870 (2021) → $99,770 (2025)
Butte, MT
$82,934 (2024) → $94,032 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Billings, MT
Frequently Asked Questions
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Written by Maria Gonzalez, PhD, LPC
Career Analyst
Maria has 10 years of experience in clinical psychology. She specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy. Maria works at a mental health clinic in Chicago.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.08% 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 Maria Gonzalez, PhD, LPC, a licensed clinical and counseling psychologist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov