Billings vs Helena: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Billings, MT and Helena, MT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Billings, MT | Helena, MT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $112,632▲ | $93,369 |
| Hourly Rate | $54.15▲ | $44.89 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $84,416▲ | $69,428 |
| 25th Percentile | $102,863▲ | $79,883 |
| 75th Percentile | $112,632▲ | $104,287 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $121,687▲ | $121,412 |
| Total Employed | 50▲ | 7 |
Verdict
Billings, MT offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Helena.
The salary gap between Billings and Helena is $19,263 (20.63%). Billings's median is +11.13% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Billings spans $37,271,Helena spans $51,984. Helena has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced ultrasound technologists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Billings ($120,429 effective) pays 24.08% more than Helena ($97,057 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 ($112,632/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($121,687)
- ✓Larger job market (50 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $120,429)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Choose Helena if…
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Billings grew 37.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 20.7% growth in Helena over the same period.
Billings, MT
$78,250 (2019) → $107,340 (2025)
Helena, MT
$73,699 (2024) → $88,982 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Billings, MT
Helena, MT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Billings or Helena?
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Written by Ravi Patel, RDMS, RVT
Career Analyst
Ravi has 10 years of experience as an ultrasound technologist. He specializes in abdominal and pelvic imaging. He works in a community hospital.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.93% 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 Ravi Patel, RDMS, RVT, a licensed ultrasound technologist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov