Billings vs Missoula: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Billings, MT and Missoula, MT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Billings, MT | Missoula, MT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $45,963 | $46,104▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $22.11 | $22.16▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $35,949 | $38,580▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $39,290▲ | $38,580 |
| 75th Percentile | $49,165▲ | $47,935 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $56,799▲ | $55,918 |
| Total Employed | 110▲ | 50 |
Verdict
Billings and Missoula are closely matched on overall sterile processing technician compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Billings and Missoula is $141 (0.31%). Missoula's median is -3.39% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Billings spans $20,850,Missoula spans $17,338. 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 ($49,145 effective) pays 2.81% more than Missoula ($47,803 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Billings if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($56,799)
- ✓Larger job market (110 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $49,145)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Choose Missoula if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($46,104/year)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Billings grew 29.7% from 2020 to 2025, compared to 40.6% growth in Missoula over the same period.
Billings, MT
$33,990 (2020) → $44,102 (2025)
Missoula, MT
$31,460 (2019) → $44,237 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Billings, MT
Missoula, MT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: Billings or Missoula?
What is the hourly rate difference between Billings and Missoula?
Should I relocate from Billings to Missoula as a sterile processing technician?
What do entry-level sterile processing technicians earn in Billings vs Missoula?
Written by Amina Patel, CCSVP
Career Analyst
Amina has 8 years of experience in sterile processing. She specialized in instrument sterilization techniques in a large hospital. Amina analyzes career trends for sterile processing technicians.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.22% 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, CCSVP, a licensed sterile processing technician with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov