Elementary School Teacher in Billings, MT

Here is a comprehensive career guide for Elementary School Teachers considering a move to Billings, Montana.

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As a career analyst with deep roots in the Treasure State, I’ve seen Billings evolve from a railroad town into the undisputed commercial and medical hub of Eastern Montana. For an elementary school teacher, this isn’t just another mid-sized city; it’s a community where your impact is deeply felt, and your paycheck goes further than in almost any other metro area in the country. This guide cuts through the promotional fluff to give you the real data, the local insights, and the logistical breakdown you need to make an informed decision.

The Salary Picture: Where Billings Stands

Let’s start with the numbers. The financial reality for teachers in Billings is defined by a lower cost of living and a salary that, while modest, holds its value. According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and the Montana Department of Labor & Industry, the median salary for elementary school teachers in the Billings metro area is $61,683/year. This translates to an hourly rate of $29.66/hour.

It's crucial to understand that this is a metro-wide median. Your actual offer will depend heavily on the specific school district and your years of experience. The national average for elementary school teachers sits at $63,670/year, meaning Billings pays slightly less than the national norm. However, this is offset dramatically by the local cost of living.

Here’s how salaries typically break down by experience level within the region:

Experience Level	Typical Annual Salary Range (Billings Metro)	Notes
Entry-Level (0-3 years)	$48,000 - $55,000	Starting salaries are often set by the Montana state salary schedule. Billings Public Schools (BPS) is the largest employer and sets a competitive baseline.
Mid-Career (4-9 years)	$58,000 - $68,000	At this stage, you'll likely be at or above the median salary of $61,683. Additional stipends for extra duties (e.g., coaching, leading a club) can bump this up.
Senior/Expert (10+ years)	$70,000 - $85,000	The top of the local pay scale, often requiring a Master’s degree (M+30 or M+45) and extensive experience. Districts like BPS and neighboring Billings Catholic Schools reward longevity.

Insider Tip: While the jobs in metro area are listed at 604 with a 10-year job growth of only 1%, this number is deceptively low. The teaching market in Billings is driven by retirements, not new positions. The turnover rate in Eastern Montana is significant due to the demanding nature of the work and the lure of retirement. This means there are consistently open positions, even if the total number of jobs isn't growing rapidly.

When you compare Billings to other Montana cities, the picture becomes clearer. Helena (the state capital) and Bozeman (home to MSU) have higher salaries but astronomically higher housing costs. Missoula is comparable in salary but also higher in cost. Billings hits the sweet spot of a stable salary and an affordable lifestyle.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

The median salary of $61,683 is a gross figure. To understand your true purchasing power, we need to factor in taxes and the single largest expense: rent.

For a single filer in Montana (with no dependents), on a $61,683 salary, your estimated take-home pay after federal and state taxes would be approximately $47,200/year or ~$3,933/month. Montana has a progressive income tax system ranging from 1% to 6.75%, which is a key consideration.

The average 1BR rent in Billings is $874/month. The Cost of Living Index is 89.6 (US avg = 100), meaning you get about 10% more value for your dollar than the national average.

Here’s a realistic monthly budget for a teacher earning the median salary:

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost (Billings)	Notes & Context
Housing (1BR Apt)	$874	This is the metro average. A teacher with roommates or in a more modest neighborhood can find units for $750-$800.
Renters Insurance	$15	Highly recommended, especially in the winter months.
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Water)	$180	Winters are cold, so heating costs are significant. Billings is served by Montana-Dakota Utilities Co. and NorthWestern Energy.
Groceries	$350	Slightly below national average. The local Albertsons, Safeway, and the vibrant Billings Farmers Market (seasonal) offer good options.
Car Payment/Insurance	$350	Billings is a car-dependent city. Public transit (MET Transit) exists but is limited.
Health Insurance	$200	This varies. Most full-time teachers are covered by the school district's plan, but premiums can be deducted from your paycheck.
Miscellaneous (Phone, etc.)	$200
Total Estimated Expenses	$2,169
Monthly Savings/Discretionary	$1,764	This leaves a healthy buffer for student loans, retirement (MT TRS), and entertainment.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. The median single-family home price in Billings hovers around $330,000 - $350,000. With a strong credit score and a 20% down payment (approx. $66,000-$70,000), a mortgage payment would be roughly $1,400-$1,500/month (including taxes and insurance). For a teacher earning $61,683, this is well within the recommended 30% of gross income ($1,542/month). Many teachers in Billings are homeowners, often within 2-3 years of moving to the area.

Where the Jobs Are: Billings's Major Employers

The teaching landscape in Billings is dominated by a few key players. Understanding their hiring trends is critical.

1. Billings Public Schools (BPS): The largest employer, serving over 16,000 students across 24 elementary schools. They are the primary source of jobs and set the local salary scale. Hiring trends are consistent, with a focus on filling vacancies created by retirements. They actively recruit for high-need areas like special education and STEM. Insider Tip: The district's "Northwest" and "Southwest" clusters are often the busiest for hiring.

2. Billings Catholic Schools: A private, K-12 system with two elementary campuses: St. Francis Xavier and St. Pius X. Salaries are competitive with BPS, often with smaller class sizes. They value teachers who align with Catholic faith and values. Hiring is less frequent but crucial to monitor.

3. Yellowstone County School Districts: Surrounding the metro area, districts like Laurel, Shepherd, and Huntley Project are popular for teachers who prefer a smaller-town feel with a short commute (15-25 minutes). They often have a tight-knit community feel and offer competitive benefits.

4. Billings Head Start: A federally funded program providing early childhood education. It's a key entry point for teachers with a degree in Early Childhood Education. Positions are competitive and follow federal hiring guidelines.

5. Montana State University Billings (MSU-B): While primarily a higher-ed institution, MSU-B’s College of Education produces many local teachers. Their career services and alumni network are valuable resources. They also host professional development workshops.

6. Local Private & Charter Options: Schools like Billings Montessori School and The Thompson School (a charter school) offer alternative educational models. They hire teachers with specific pedagogical training and often have a more flexible, innovative environment.

Hiring Trend Insight: The demand is strongest in the fall, but vacancies can open year-round. The most consistent need is for teachers who are Montana State Certified and have experience with multi-grade classrooms or differentiated instruction, common in Montana's rural and semi-rural settings.

Getting Licensed in MT

If you are licensed in another state, you must navigate Montana's certification process. Montana is not a member of the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) Interstate Agreement, meaning out-of-state licenses do not automatically transfer.

State-Specific Requirements (via the Montana Office of Public Instruction - OPI):

• Bachelor’s Degree: From an accredited institution.
• Accredited Teacher Prep Program: Your program must be approved in your home state.
• Basic Skills Test: Montana requires passing scores on the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators (or meet exemption criteria with high ACT/SAT scores).
• Content Knowledge Test: Passing scores on the appropriate Praxis II Subject Assessments for elementary education (Multiple Subjects).

Costs & Timeline:

• Application Fee: Approximately $180 for initial certification.
• Testing Fees: Praxis Core ($130) + Praxis II Multiple Subjects ($130). Budget $300-$350 for testing.
• Transcript Evaluation: May incur a fee (approx. $50-$100).

Timeline: The process can take 3 to 6 months from start to finish. You can apply for a 1-Year Non-Renewable License while completing any missing requirements. Insider Tip: Start the application process with the Montana OPI before you move. You can often get a preliminary approval, which makes you a more attractive candidate to school districts.

Best Neighborhoods for Elementary School Teachers

Billings is geographically spread out, and your choice of neighborhood impacts your commute and lifestyle. Here are four top options for teachers:

1. West End (Downtown & Historic District): The heart of the city, with walkable streets, coffee shops, and the Alberta Bair Theater. Older, character-filled homes and apartments. You'll be close to the Magic City Campus (BPS admin) and many downtown schools.

   • Rent Estimate: $900 - $1,100/month for a 1BR.
   • Commute: 5-10 minutes to most schools.

2. The Heights: A newer, family-oriented suburb in the northeast quadrant. Features modern homes, good parks, and a strong community feel. Popular with young professionals and growing families.

   • Rent Estimate: $950 - $1,200/month for a 1BR.
   • Commute: 10-15 minutes to most schools.

3. Southside (South Park & Red Lodge Ave Area): A mix of older bungalows and apartments. More affordable than the West End or Heights, with easy access to the Yellowstone River and the scenic Lockwood area. A bit grittier but very community-focused.

   • Rent Estimate: $750 - $900/month for a 1BR.
   • Commute: 10-15 minutes.

4. North Southwest (NWSW): A centrally located, slightly older area with a mix of rentals and single-family homes. It’s close to MSU-Billings and has good access to the entire city. A solid, middle-of-the-road option.

   • Rent Estimate: $800 - $950/month for a 1BR.
   • Commute: 10 minutes.

Insider Tip: If you want to live within walking distance of a great local hangout, choose the West End. If you prioritize a newer apartment with amenities, look in The Heights.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Career advancement in Billings follows a traditional path but has unique local twists.

• Specialty Premiums: While Montana doesn't have state-mandated salary premiums for specialties, individual districts do. Teachers with certifications in Special Education, English as a Second Language (ESL), and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) often receive stipends or are placed at the top of the salary schedule for their experience level. A Master's degree is the single biggest factor in increasing your base pay.
• Advancement Paths: The most common path is to move into administrative roles. Billings Public Schools offers mentor teacher programs, curriculum leadership positions, and eventually assistant principal/principal tracks, which require a Master’s or Doctorate in Educational Leadership. Another path is moving into a district-level specialist role (e.g., Instructional Coach, Dyslexia Specialist).
• 10-Year Outlook: With a 1% job growth rate, the market is stable but not expanding. Growth will come from specialization and experience. The demand for teachers who can address mental health and behavioral needs is increasing. The long-term outlook is solid for those who commit to the district and invest in advanced degrees.

The Verdict: Is Billings Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Extremely Low Cost of Living: Your $61,683 salary goes very far. Homeownership is a realistic goal.	Isolated Location: Billings is a 2-4 hour drive from another major city (Bozeman, Missoula, Rapid City). Can feel remote.
Strong Community & Impact: You become a known and valued part of the community. Class sizes can be smaller than in major metros.	Harsh Winters: Winters are long, cold, and can be snowy. You need a reliable vehicle and winter gear.
Outdoor Access: World-class hiking, fishing, and skiing (Red Lodge Mtn) are minutes away. The Yellowstone River runs through town.	Limited Cultural/Nightlife: While growing, the arts and dining scene is not comparable to a coastal city.
Stable Job Market: While growth is slow, retirements create consistent openings. The district is well-organized.	Teacher Pay: While the cost of living is low, the median salary of $61,683 is slightly below the national average of $63,670.

Final Recommendation: Billings is an excellent choice for an elementary school teacher who values community, affordability, and a connection to nature. It’s ideal for those looking to establish financial stability, buy a home early in their career, and make a tangible difference in a tight-knit community. It may not be the best fit for those who crave the anonymity and constant stimulation of a large coastal city.

FAQs

1. How does Montana teacher retirement work?
You will be enrolled in the Montana Teachers' Retirement System (TRS), a defined benefit pension plan. As of 2023, the employer contribution is over 14% of your salary, and you contribute a fixed percentage. It’s a powerful tool for long-term financial planning, but it's separate from Social Security for many public employees.

2. What is the school year schedule like?
Billings follows a traditional schedule: late August/early September start, winter break in December, spring break in March, and end in late May/early June. The academic calendar is aligned with the weather, avoiding the harshest winter months for major breaks.

3. Is Billings a good place for teachers with families?
Yes, consistently ranked as a top place for families in Montana. The cost of living allows for a single-income household to be more feasible. The school districts are well-regarded, and there are numerous parks, youth sports leagues, and community activities (like the Billings Symphony and the Western Heritage Center).

4. Do I need a car?
Absolutely. Public transportation (MET Transit) covers major corridors but is not practical for a daily teacher commute, especially with early morning hours. A reliable, all-wheel-drive vehicle is highly recommended for navigating winter roads.

5. What’s the dating/social scene like for young teachers?
It’s community-focused. Socializing often happens through school events, local breweries (like Montana Brewing Co. or Uberbrew), and outdoor clubs. Billings has a growing population of young professionals, but it’s not a "big city" scene. It’s more about building a network through shared interests.

Data Sources:

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2023.
• Montana Department of Labor & Industry.
• Montana Office of Public Instruction (OPI) - Certification.
• U.S. Census Bureau - Population.
• Local rental market analysis from Apartments.com and RentCafe (Q2 2024).
• Cost of Living Index - Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER).