Data Scientist Jobs in Missoula, MT

Missoula, Montana$135,200 USD/yearFull-time
Updated: March 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

Data Scientist Salary in Missoula

Entry Level
$88,400
Median
$135,200
Senior Level
$191,360

Data Scientist salaries in Missoula are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Missoula is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

PythonMachine LearningSQLStatisticsData Visualization

Data Scientist Job Market in Missoula

Missoula, MT is a specialized market with unique career opportunities for Data Scientist professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Missoula offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. The city's strong Education and Healthcare sectors create robust demand for Data Scientist talent. With high demand and 36% projected growth, qualified Data Scientists often receive multiple offers and competitive packages.

Top Companies Hiring Data Scientists in Missoula

Local tech startupsRegional IT firmsNational tech companies with local offices

Major employers hiring Data Scientists in Missoula include Local tech startups, Regional IT firms, National tech companies with local offices. Many companies offer competitive benefits including remote/hybrid work options, comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Data Scientists in Missoula

Living in Missoula as a Data Scientist means navigating a cost of living that's slightly above the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. At median Data Scientist salary, housing is quite affordable at 16% of gross income, leaving room for savings and lifestyle spending. Suburban apartments average $1,400/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

104
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.8K
Avg Rent/Month
Growing
Tech Hub
Tier 4
Market Size

Commuting as a Data Scientist in Missoula

Missoula Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Many Data Scientist positions offer remote or hybrid options, which can significantly reduce commute frequency.

Best neighborhoods for Data Scientists in Missoula: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Data Scientist professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Montana

Montana has moderate state income taxes. When evaluating offers, consider total compensation including benefits, not just base salary. Local cost of living typically has more impact on your finances than state tax differences.

Career Outlook for Data Scientists

The job outlook for Data Scientists in Missoula is growing. Industry projections suggest 36% growth over the next decade, outpacing many other professions. While the market is smaller, Missoula offers opportunities for those seeking specialized roles or better work-life balance. In-demand skills include Python, Machine Learning, SQL, Statistics.

Relocating to Missoula

Many Data Scientist roles offer remote work. If relocating primarily for a job, confirm the remote policy - you may have more location flexibility than expected.

Remote Work for Data Scientists in Missoula

Data Scientist roles are highly suited for remote work, and many Missoula employers offer fully remote or hybrid positions. This flexibility can significantly impact your housing choices - you may be able to live in more affordable neighborhoods further from downtown.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Data Scientist salary in Missoula, MT?

The average Data Scientist salary in Missoula, MT is $135,200 per year. Entry-level Data Scientists typically start around $88,400, while experienced professionals can earn $191,360 or more. The national average for Data Scientist roles is $130,000.

How many Data Scientist jobs are available in Missoula?

Missoula has a growing job market with steady opportunities for Data Scientist professionals. Major employers hiring Data Scientists include Local tech startups, Regional IT firms, National tech companies with local offices. The Education and Healthcare sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Missoula a good city for Data Scientists?

Missoula is an solid choice for Data Scientists. While not as large as coastal metros, it offers solid opportunities and often better work-life balance. The cost of living is reasonable compared to major coastal cities. The city's education industry creates strong demand for technology & software professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Data Scientists in Missoula?

Top skills for Data Scientists in Missoula include Python, Machine Learning, SQL, Statistics, Data Visualization. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork. Relevant certifications like Google Data Analytics or IBM Data Science can strengthen your candidacy.

What is the cost of living for Data Scientists in Missoula?

Missoula's cost of living is near the national average (104% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. Purchasing power in Missoula is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Data Scientists in Missoula?

Missoula Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Many Data Scientist positions offer remote or hybrid work options, which can significantly reduce commute frequency.

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