Butte vs Missoula: Paralegal Salary (2026)
Compare paralegal salaries between Butte, MT and Missoula, MT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Butte, MT | Missoula, MT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $59,018▲ | $52,449 |
| Hourly Rate | $28.37▲ | $25.22 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $41,255 | $50,057▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $48,302 | $50,461▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $75,334▲ | $61,237 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $91,478▲ | $76,691 |
| Total Employed | 7 | 270▲ |
Verdict
Butte, MT offers better overall compensation for paralegals, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Missoula.
The salary gap between Butte and Missoula is $6,569 (12.52%). Butte's median is -9.34% compared to the US national median of $65,097.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Butte spans $50,223,Missoula spans $26,634. Butte 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, Butte ($61,349 effective) pays 12.81% more than Missoula ($54,382 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Butte if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($59,018/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($91,478)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $61,349)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Choose Missoula if…
- ✓Larger job market (270 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, paralegal salaries in Butte grew 17.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 3.0% growth in Missoula over the same period.
Butte, MT
$48,615 (2024) → $57,017 (2025)
Missoula, MT
$49,180 (2019) → $50,670 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Missoula, MT
Frequently Asked Questions
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Written by Jessica Tran, JD
Career Analyst
Jessica Tran has 10 years of experience in paralegal studies. She specializes in corporate law and works with a law firm. She trains new paralegals in legal research and documentation.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.51% 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 Jessica Tran, JD, a licensed paralegal with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov