The Dental Hygienist’s Guide to Billings, Montana: Salary, Jobs, and Lifestyle

As someone who’s watched the Yellowstone River carve its path through Billings for years, I can tell you this city doesn’t just sit on the edge of the plains—it thrives there. For a Dental Hygienist, Billings offers a unique blend of a stable healthcare market, a lower cost of living, and a lifestyle that lets you get to the mountains on your day off. This guide cuts through the noise with the data and local insights you need to decide if this is where you should hang your shingle.

The Salary Picture: Where Billings Stands

First, let's talk numbers. The financial reality of your career in Billings is strong, especially when you factor in the area's cost of living. The median salary for a Dental Hygienist in Billings is $84,799 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $40.77. This is slightly below the national average of $87,530, but that figure is misleading without context. The national average is heavily skewed by high-cost, high-wage cities like New York and San Francisco.

In Billings, that $84,799 goes much, much further. The city's Cost of Living Index is 89.6, meaning it's about 10.4% cheaper than the U.S. average. Your paycheck here has more purchasing power than it would in most other metro areas. Billings is the largest city in a vast state, and the demand for dental care is consistent, supporting a solid 10-year job growth of 9% for the profession in the region.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Salaries in dentistry are heavily influenced by experience, specialization, and the type of practice. While the median is a good starting point, here’s a more granular look at what you can expect to earn as you build your career in Billings.

Experience Level	Typical Years in Practice	Estimated Annual Salary Range
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$72,000 - $78,000
Mid-Career	3-9 years	$82,000 - $90,000
Senior-Level	10-19 years	$88,000 - $96,000
Expert/Specialist	20+ years	$95,000 - $105,000+

Note: These are estimated ranges based on local market data and industry trends. The top of the range is often achieved through specialization, managing a dental practice, or working in a high-demand setting.

Comparison to Other Montana Cities

Billings anchors Montana's eastern healthcare market, but how does it stack up against other major cities in the state?

City	Median Salary (Est.)	Cost of Living Index (US Avg=100)	Key Industry Notes
Billings	$84,799	89.6	Largest metro, highest number of jobs, diverse employer base.
Bozeman	$86,500	112.5	High cost of living, driven by MSU and tech; competitive job market.
Missoula	$83,200	104.2	University town, strong demand, but higher housing costs.
Great Falls	$81,800	88.7	Lower salaries, but similar cost of living to Billings.

Insider Tip: Bozeman and Missoula offer slightly higher nominal salaries, but their housing costs can eat up 30-40% more of your income. For pure financial stability and savings potential, Billings is often the better choice for Dental Hygienists in the early to mid-career stages.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real about your monthly budget. We’ll use the median salary of $84,799 as our baseline and assume you're a single filer with no dependents. This is a simplified breakdown, but it gives you a clear picture of what life looks like in Billings.

Monthly Budget Breakdown for a Dental Hygienist Earning $84,799

Item	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Gross Monthly Pay	$7,066.58	$84,799 / 12
Federal & State Taxes (est.)	-$1,250	This is an estimate; actual depends on deductions.
Social Security & Medicare	-$540	7.65% of gross pay.
Health Insurance (Employer)	-$150	Typical contribution for a single employee.
Retirement (401k, 5%)	-$353	Critical for long-term financial health.
Net Take-Home Pay	~$4,773.58	This is your usable monthly income.
Average 1BR Rent	-$874	Billings' average rent is very reasonable.
Utilities (Heat, Elec, Water)	-$250	Winter heating costs can be higher.
Groceries & Household	-$400
Car Payment/Insurance/Gas	-$600	A necessity in Billings; no true public transit.
Discretionary (Fun, Savings)	~$2,649.58	This is your disposable income.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. With over $2,600 left over each month after essential expenses, a Dental Hygienist in Billings is in a strong position to save for a down payment. The median home price in the Billings metro is roughly $350,000. A 20% down payment is $70,000. At a savings rate of $1,500/month (a comfortable portion of your discretionary funds), you could save that amount in under 4 years. This is a stark contrast to markets like Bozeman, where the median home price is closer to $600,000.

Where the Jobs Are: Billings's Major Employers

Billings has a robust healthcare network. While private practice is the largest employer, several major systems offer steady employment. The Jobs in Metro: 241 figure indicates a healthy, competitive market.

1. Dental Associates of Billings: A large, multi-specialty group practice with several locations. They offer a stable 9-5 schedule, benefits, and opportunities to work with periodontists and oral surgeons. They are often hiring.
2. Billings Clinic: While primarily a hospital, their dental department serves a patient base that often requires complex medical-dental coordination. Great for hygienists interested in special needs or oncology patients.
3. St. Vincent Healthcare: Another major hospital system with an associated dental clinic. They often have openings for hygienists in their community health programs.
4. Dental Care of Billings (and other large private practices): There are numerous private practices throughout the city, from family-focused offices to cosmetic boutique practices. Insider Tip: Drive along the "medical corridor" of S 24th St W and Grand Ave—you'll see dozens of practices. Many smaller offices don't post online; a well-timed, in-person application can be a winning strategy.
5. Yellowstone County Health Department: Offers public health dental programs. These roles are mission-driven, often with a focus on pediatric and low-income populations, and come with government benefits.
6. Montana State University Billings (MSU-B): While not a direct employer, MSU-B is a key partner. They have a dental hygiene program that feeds local talent, and they sometimes have openings in their dental assisting or health sciences admin roles.
7. Native American Health Services: The Eastern Montana Indian Health Service clinic in Billings serves the local Native American population. This is a unique, rewarding setting with a different pace and patient community.

Hiring Trends: The market is steady. The post-pandemic era saw a surge in deferred dental care, leading to full patient schedules. Practices are looking for hygienists who are comfortable with new technologies (like intraoral scanners and digital X-rays) and who can foster a positive patient experience.

Getting Licensed in MT

Montana’s licensing process is straightforward but requires attention to detail. All information is managed by the Montana Board of Dentistry.

1. Education & Exams:

• You must graduate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program (an associate or bachelor's degree).
• Pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE).
• Pass a state or regional clinical board exam (like the CRDHS).

2. Application for Licensure:

• Submit a completed application to the Montana Board of Dentistry, including all transcripts, exam scores, and a passport-style photo.
• Pay the application fee: $150.
• Provide proof of CPR certification (BLS for Healthcare Providers is standard).

3. Timeline & Costs:

• Processing Time: The board typically processes applications within 4-6 weeks of receiving a complete packet. It's wise to apply as soon as you have your exam results.
• Total Estimated Cost (excluding education): $150 (application) + $400 (NBDHE) + $500 (regional exam) = ~$1,050.
• Reciprocity: Montana is part of the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact, which allows for easier licensure for military spouses and those moving from other compact member states. If you're licensed in another state, check if you qualify for reciprocity.

Insider Tip: The board's website is your best friend. Download the application packet and read every page before you start. The most common reason for delays is missing information or an unclear background check.

Best Neighborhoods for Dental Hygienists

Where you live in Billings will define your commute and lifestyle. The city is spread out, so choose a neighborhood that puts you close to your work or your play.

1. Downtown (Area around Grand Ave & 24th St):

   • Commute: Walkable to many private practices and the Billings Clinic. The ultimate 5-minute commute.
   • Lifestyle: Historic, walkable, with cafes, bars, and the Alberta Bair Theater. Older apartments and some new loft-style living.
   • Rent Estimate: $900 - $1,200/month for a 1BR.
   • Best For: Young professionals who want an urban vibe in a small city.

2. West End / Shiloh Corridor:

   • Commute: 10-15 minutes by car to most major employers. Easy access to I-90.
   • Lifestyle: Modern, commercial, and family-friendly. Major shopping (Target, Costco), big-box gyms, and chain restaurants. Very suburban feel.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,000 - $1,300/month for a 1BR.
   • Best For: Those who want modern amenities and don't mind a short drive.

3. South Side / Historic Districts:

   • Commute: 5-15 minutes. Close to downtown and the medical corridor.
   • Lifestyle: Quiet, established neighborhoods with beautiful older homes, mature trees, and a strong sense of community. You'll find local coffee shops and pubs.
   • Rent Estimate: $800 - $1,100/month for a 1BR (often in duplexes or older apartments).
   • Best For: Those seeking character, walkability, and a quieter pace.

4. Heights / Rehberg Ranch:

   • Commute: 15-25 minutes to downtown. Can be longer during winter weather.
   • Lifestyle: The fastest-growing suburban area. New construction, cul-de-sacs, great schools, and easy access to parks and trails. More car-dependent.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,100 - $1,400/month for a 1BR in a newer complex.
   • Best For: Families or professionals who want more space and are willing to commute.

5. Lockwood:

   • Commute: 10-20 minutes to downtown. Right off I-90.
   • Lifestyle: A separate community with its own identity. More affordable housing, a mix of older and newer homes, and a very practical, no-frills vibe.
   • Rent Estimate: $750 - $950/month for a 1BR.
   • Best For: Budget-conscious hygienists who don't mind a short highway commute.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A career in Billings isn't a dead end; it's a launchpad. The 10-year job growth of 9% is solid, but savvy hygienists can accelerate their earnings and impact.

Specialty Premiums & Advancement Paths:

• Periodontics: Working with a periodontist can boost your salary by 10-15% over a general practice role. You'll manage scaling and root planing for complex cases.
• Pediatrics: Specializing in children can command a premium, especially in a practice focused on sedation or special needs.
• Orthodontics: If you enjoy the meticulous, repetitive nature of orthodontic assists and hygiene, this is a growing field in Billings.
• Public Health/Government: While the base pay may be closer to the $78,000 entry-level range, the benefits (pension, loan forgiveness programs) and job security are unparalleled.
• Management: Lead Hygienist or Practice Manager roles can push your earnings into the $90,000+ range, combining clinical work with administrative duties.

10-Year Outlook:
The outlook remains positive. An aging population and increased awareness of the oral-systemic health link will keep demand steady. The key to growth will be embracing new technologies (teledentistry, AI-assisted diagnostics) and pursuing continuing education in specialties. Billings is a great place to build a long-term career without the burnout of a high-cost, high-pressure metro area.

The Verdict: Is Billings Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Excellent Cost of Living: Your $84,799 salary provides a comfortable lifestyle with strong savings potential.	Remote & Isolated: Billings is a long drive from any other major city (4 hrs to Denver, 7 to Salt Lake).
Strong Job Market: The 241 jobs in the metro and 9% growth indicate stability.	Harsh Winters: Snow, ice, and sub-zero temps are the norm from November to March.
Outdoor Recreation Paradise: Top-tier hiking, fishing, skiing (Red Lodge Mtn), and hunting are minutes away.	Limited Cultural Scene: It's a small city; major concerts, museums, and diverse cuisines are more limited than in big metros.
Manageable Commutes: Traffic is virtually non-existent. You'll rarely sit in a car for more than 20 minutes.	Conservative Culture: Billings is politically and socially conservative; this can be a pro or con depending on your values.
Sense of Community: It's a city where you can know your neighbors and your local barista.	Healthcare Concentration: While stable, the market is less diversified than in a tech hub.

Final Recommendation:
Billings, MT is an outstanding choice for Dental Hygienists who value financial stability, a high quality of life, and unparalleled access to the outdoors. It is particularly well-suited for early-career hygienists looking to pay down student loans, mid-career professionals seeking a better work-life balance, and anyone who prefers a "small city" feel with big-city amenities. If you need the energy of a coastal metropolis or a vibrant, progressive arts scene, you may feel constrained. But if you want your work to comfortably fund your life, and your weekends to be spent in the mountains, Billings is a hidden gem.

FAQs

1. What are the most in-demand specialties for Dental Hygienists in Billings?
Currently, there is high demand for hygienists with experience in periodontics and pediatrics. Many practices are also looking for hygienists who are proficient with diode lasers and digital impression systems. General practice roles are always available, but specialty offices offer a premium.

2. Is it difficult to find a full-time position with benefits?
No, it's not difficult. The majority of full-time positions in private practices and hospital systems come with standard benefits (health insurance, retirement plans, PTO). However, some smaller private practices may initially offer part-time or "as-needed" positions with the possibility to move to full-time. Be clear about your needs during the interview process.

3. How does Billings handle a dental hygienist's license if I'm from another state?
Montana is a member of the Dental and Dental Hygienist Compact. If you hold a license in another compact state, the process is streamlined. For non-compact states, you will need to apply for licensure by endorsement, which involves submitting your current license, proof of practice (for 2+ years), and potentially taking the Montana jurisprudence exam. Always check with the Montana Board of Dentistry for the most current requirements.

4. What is the cost of living beyond rent?
Very reasonable. Groceries are about