Bozeman vs Helena: Graphic Designer Salary (2026)
Compare graphic designer 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 | $60,156 | $65,830▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $28.92 | $31.65▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $41,995 | $45,561▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $50,037 | $53,758▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $71,690 | $71,980▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $101,748 | $110,326▲ |
| Total Employed | 100▲ | 30 |
Verdict
Helena, MT offers better overall compensation for graphic designers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Bozeman.
The salary gap between Bozeman and Helena is $5,674 (9.43%). Helena's median is +1.16% compared to the US national median of $65,075.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bozeman spans $59,753,Helena spans $64,765. Helena has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced graphic designers.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Helena ($68,806 effective) pays 17.25% more than Bozeman ($58,683 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bozeman if…
- ✓Larger job market (100 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Choose Helena if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($65,830/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($110,326)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $68,806)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, graphic designer salaries in Bozeman grew -5.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 1.3% growth in Helena over the same period.
Bozeman, MT
$61,260 (2024) → $58,200 (2025)
Helena, MT
$62,870 (2024) → $63,690 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bozeman, MT
Helena, MT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays graphic designers more: Bozeman or Helena?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bozeman and Helena?
Should I relocate from Bozeman to Helena as a graphic designer?
What do entry-level graphic designers earn in Bozeman vs Helena?
Written by Jordan Lee, MFA
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has 10 years of experience in graphic design. They specialize in branding and visual identity. Their work includes freelance projects for small businesses.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.36% 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 Jordan Lee, MFA, a licensed graphic designer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov