Butte vs Missoula: Phlebotomist Salary (2026)
Compare phlebotomist 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 | $44,184 | $44,460▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $21.24 | $21.38▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $34,514 | $36,244▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $38,130▲ | $38,012 |
| 75th Percentile | $48,063 | $48,356▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $57,003 | $57,883▲ |
| Total Employed | 7 | 16▲ |
Verdict
Missoula, MT offers better overall compensation for phlebotomists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Butte.
The salary gap between Butte and Missoula is $276 (0.62%). Missoula's median is -5.93% compared to the US national median of $47,261.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Butte spans $22,489,Missoula spans $21,639. 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, Missoula ($46,216 effective) pays 0.62% more than Butte ($45,929 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Butte if…
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Choose Missoula if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($44,460/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($57,883)
- ✓Larger job market (16 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $46,216)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, phlebotomist salaries in Butte grew 13.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 40.2% growth in Missoula over the same period.
Butte, MT
$37,396 (2024) → $42,285 (2025)
Missoula, MT
$30,340 (2019) → $42,550 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Missoula, MT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays phlebotomists more: Butte or Missoula?
What is the hourly rate difference between Butte and Missoula?
Should I relocate from Butte 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