Bozeman vs Helena: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist 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 | $103,462▲ | $97,365 |
| Hourly Rate | $49.74▲ | $46.81 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $67,461▲ | $56,979 |
| 25th Percentile | $99,111▲ | $72,940 |
| 75th Percentile | $132,054▲ | $124,627 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $132,054 | $150,916▲ |
| Total Employed | 30▲ | 7 |
Verdict
Bozeman, MT offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Helena.
The salary gap between Bozeman and Helena is $6,097 (6.26%). Bozeman's median is -2.11% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bozeman spans $64,593,Helena spans $93,937. Helena has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced clinical and counseling psychologists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Helena ($101,211 effective) pays 0.28% more than Bozeman ($100,929 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 ($103,462/year)
- ✓Larger job market (30 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Choose Helena if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($150,916)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $101,211)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Bozeman grew 17.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 13.4% growth in Helena over the same period.
Bozeman, MT
$83,975 (2024) → $98,460 (2025)
Helena, MT
$81,723 (2024) → $92,658 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bozeman, MT
Helena, MT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Bozeman or Helena?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bozeman and Helena?
Should I relocate from Bozeman to Helena as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Bozeman vs Helena?
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