Medical Assistant in Billings, MT

The Salary Picture: Where Billings Stands

If you're a Medical Assistant (MA) looking at Billings, the first thing to understand is that your paycheck will stretch further here than almost anywhere else in the country. The median salary for a Medical Assistant in Billings is $37,075/year, which translates to an hourly rate of $17.82. While this is slightly below the national average of $38,270/year, the difference is negligible when you factor in Montana’s lower cost of living. The Billings metro area has 241 jobs for MAs, with a projected 10-year job growth of 15%, outpacing many rural regions.

Here’s how salaries break down by experience level. Note that these are estimates based on local job postings and industry surveys; actual pay will vary by employer and specialty.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Estimated Hourly Rate	Notes
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$31,000 - $34,500	$14.90 - $16.59	Often starts in clinics or urgent care.
Mid-Level (2-5 years)	$35,000 - $40,000	$16.83 - $19.23	Common range for most experienced MAs.
Senior/Lead (5-10 years)	$40,000 - $45,000	$19.23 - $21.63	Often includes supervisory duties.
Expert/Specialized (10+ years)	$45,000+	$21.63+	Typically in high-demand specialties.

Insider Tip: While the median is $37,075, you can often push towards $40,000+ with certifications like phlebotomy or EKG tech, or by working for the larger hospital systems (Billings Clinic or St. Vincent) which tend to offer better benefits packages that increase total compensation.

Comparison to Other Montana Cities:

• Bozeman: Higher cost of living, salaries may be slightly higher (median ~$38,000), but competition is fierce due to MSU and a tech influx.
• Missoula: Similar to Billings, with a median around $36,500. The healthcare market is robust but slightly smaller.
• Great Falls: Lower salaries (median ~$35,000) but a very low cost of living.
• Helena: State capital, with more government jobs; salaries are comparable to Billings.

Billings strikes a balance: it's Montana's largest city (metro population 120,874) with the most diverse healthcare employers, yet it hasn't seen the explosive price hikes of Bozeman or Missoula.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real about the numbers. With a median salary of $37,075, your monthly take-home pay (after federal, state, and FICA taxes) will be approximately $2,450 - $2,550, depending on your filing status and deductions. The average 1BR rent in Billings is $874/month, and the Cost of Living Index is 89.6 (100 is the US average). This makes Billings a financially viable market for single MAs or those with a dual income.

Here’s a sample monthly budget for a single Medical Assistant earning the median wage:

Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Take-Home Pay	$2,500	After taxes, based on $37,075/year.
Rent (1BR)	$874	Average for the city.
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Water)	$150 - $200	Varies by season; winters are cold.
Car Payment & Insurance	$300 - $450	Essential; public transit is limited.
Groceries	$300 - $350	Comparable to national averages.
Health Insurance (if not covered)	$150 - $250	Most employers offer coverage.
Misc. (Phone, Entertainment)	$200 - $300
Total Expenses	~$2,124 - $2,424
Remaining for Savings/Debt	~$76 - $376	Tight but manageable.

Can they afford to buy a home? It's challenging but not impossible on a single MA salary. The median home price in Billings is around $325,000. A 20% down payment is $65,000, which is a significant hurdle. However, with the low cost of living, a disciplined budget can allow for substantial savings towards a down payment over 5-7 years. Many MAs in Billings are dual-income households, making homeownership more accessible. Insider Tip: Look into Montana’s first-time homebuyer programs, such as the Montana Housing Home Loan Program, which can offer lower interest rates and down payment assistance.

Where the Jobs Are: Billings's Major Employers

Billings is the healthcare hub for eastern Montana, northern Wyoming, and the Dakotas. This creates a stable, high-demand job market. Here are the key players:

1. Billings Clinic: The largest employer in the region and a major referral center. They have a constant need for MAs in their multi-specialty clinics, urgent care, and main hospital. They offer robust benefits and clear career ladders. Hiring trends are consistently active.
2. St. Vincent Healthcare (Part of Intermountain Health): The other major hospital system in town. Similar to Billings Clinic, they have a large network of clinics and specialties. MAs here often cite strong team environments. Recent merger activity may lead to new efficiencies and hiring needs.
3. Billings Community Health Center (FQHC): A federally qualified health center providing care to underserved populations. Excellent for MAs passionate about community health. They often have positions in family medicine, pediatrics, and behavioral health.
4. Rocky Mountain Ear, Nose & Throat (RMENT): A large, multi-location specialty practice. A prime example of the specialty clinics that drive MA jobs in Billings. They often seek MAs with phlebotomy skills.
5. Big Sky Medical Center: A large outpatient surgery and endoscopy center. MAs here work in fast-paced procedural settings, often with more predictable hours than a hospital.
6. Western Health Clinic (VA): The Billings VA clinic is a significant federal employer. Federal jobs come with excellent benefits, pensions, and a different pay scale (often higher than the median for experienced MAs).
7. Great Plains Health (in nearby Cheyenne, WY): While not in Billings, this hospital system is a 1-hour drive and a common option for MAs willing to commute for a different market or specialty.

Insider Tip: Many of the smaller private practices in the West End (near St. Vincent) or the Downtown area are often overlooked. They might not have the name recognition but can offer a more intimate office environment and direct impact on patient care. Check the Billings Gazette job section and local postings on sites like Indeed filtered for Billings.

Getting Licensed in MT

Montana has a straightforward process for Medical Assistants, but it's important to note: Montana does not have a state-issued MA license. Instead, your certification is typically recognized through national accrediting bodies.

1. Education & Certification: The standard path is to complete an accredited Medical Assisting program (typically 1-2 years) and then earn a national certification. The two most recognized are:

   • Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) from the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA).
   • Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) from American Medical Technologists (AMT).
   • National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) from National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT).
   • Cost: Program tuition varies widely, from $5,000 - $15,000 for an associate degree. Certification exams cost $120 - $200.

2. State-Specific Requirements: You do not need a separate Montana state license. However, you will need to check with the Montana Department of Labor & Industry (DLI) for any specific workplace regulations. For phlebotomy or X-ray duties, additional state permits or certifications may be required, depending on the employer.

3. Timeline to Get Started:

   • If you're already certified: You can start applying for jobs immediately. The process is quick.
   • If you need education: A diploma program can take 9-12 months. An associate degree takes 18-24 months. Factor in 1-2 months for job searching and relocation.

Insider Tip: Billings employers highly value the CMA (AAMA) credential due to its stringent recertification requirements. If you're choosing a certification, the CMA is often the gold standard here.

Best Neighborhoods for Medical Assistants

Living in Billings means choosing a neighborhood based on your commute to major medical hubs. Here’s a breakdown:

Neighborhood	Vibe & Lifestyle	Major Employer Proximity	Rent Estimate (1BR)
West End	Quiet, residential, family-oriented. Close to shopping at West End Plaza.	Excellent. Very close to St. Vincent Healthcare. 10-15 min to Billings Clinic.	$850 - $950
Downtown	Walkable, historic, with restaurants and breweries. Best for young professionals.	Good. 10-15 min to both major hospitals. Billings Community Health is downtown.	$900 - $1,100
Heights	Suburban, newer developments, great schools. More "big box" store access.	Fair. 15-20 min commute to both hospital districts. Can be busier during rush hour.	$800 - $900
South Side	Affordable, diverse, with a mix of older and newer homes.	Good. 10-15 min to St. Vincent. A bit further from Billings Clinic.	$750 - $850
Lockwood	Growing suburban area east of the city. More space, newer homes, and lower prices.	Fair. 20-25 min commute. Good for those who prefer a quieter, more suburban feel.	$700 - $800

Insider Tip: Traffic in Billings is minimal compared to larger cities. The main bottleneck is the I-90/I-94 interchange near the hospital district. Living on the same side of the interstate as your workplace (e.g., West End for St. Vincent) can save you 10-15 minutes of commute time.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Specialty Premiums: While the base median is $37,075, you can increase your earning potential by specializing.

• Phlebotomy: MAs who draw blood are in high demand. This can add a $1-$2/hour premium.
• EKG/ECG Tech: Certifications in EKG can also boost pay.
• Specialty Clinics: Working in high-volume specialties like Ophthalmology, Dermatology, or Orthopedics often comes with higher pay and more predictable hours than general family medicine.

Advancement Paths:

1. Clinical Ladder: Many hospitals (Billings Clinic, St. Vincent) have clinical ladders. Moving from MA I to MA II to MA III typically comes with a pay raise and more responsibility (e.g., precepting new MAs, managing inventory).
2. Lead MA / Office Manager: With 5+ years of experience, you can move into leadership roles, overseeing other MAs and clinic operations. This can push your salary towards $45,000-$50,000+.
3. Transition to Other Roles: Your MA experience is a perfect springboard for other healthcare careers. Many MAs in Billings go on to become:
   • Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) or Registered Nurses (RNs) via bridge programs at Montana State University-Billings (MSUB) or Rocky Mountain College.
   • Healthcare Administrators with additional degrees.
   • Medical Coder/Biller with additional certification.

10-Year Outlook: With a 15% job growth rate, Billings is one of the more stable markets in the West. The aging population and the consolidation of healthcare under major systems (like Intermountain's acquisition of St. Vincent) ensure steady demand. Automation is less of a threat here than in larger metros, as the personal touch in patient care is highly valued.

The Verdict: Is Billings Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your salary goes farther here.	Winter Weather: Harsh, long winters with snow and cold can be challenging.
Stable Job Market: 241 jobs and 15% growth indicate strong demand.	Isolation: It's a 3-hour drive to Bozeman or Sheridan, WY. Limited direct flights.
Multiple Major Employers: Diverse options from hospitals to clinics.	Fewer "Big City" Amenities: Limited high-end dining, shopping, or cultural events.
Manageable Commute: Minimal traffic, easy navigation.	Pay is Slightly Below National Average: You trade salary for affordability.
Outdoor Access: World-class hunting, fishing, and hiking right outside your door.	Limited Public Transit: You will need a reliable car.

Final Recommendation: Billings is an excellent choice for a Medical Assistant seeking financial stability, a strong job market, and an outdoor-focused lifestyle without the high cost of living of a major city. It's particularly attractive for those early in their careers, as the lower salary is offset by the ability to save money and gain valuable experience. It's also a great fit for MAs who want to eventually transition to nursing or other healthcare roles, as MSUB and Rocky Mountain College offer affordable pathways. However, if you crave constant big-city entertainment, a vibrant nightlife, or temperate winters, Billings might feel too small and isolated.

FAQs

Q: Is it easy to find a job as a Medical Assistant in Billings?
A: Yes, with 241 jobs and steady growth, demand is healthy. However, competition can be for the most desirable positions at Billings Clinic and St. Vincent. Having your CMA (AAMA) and any specialty certifications (phlebotomy, EKG) will make you a much stronger candidate.

Q: Do I need to have my certification before moving?
A: It is highly recommended. Billings employers rarely hire uncertified MAs, especially for hospital systems. Completing your certification before you move will make your job search much more straightforward.

Q: What's the cost of living really like compared to a place like Denver or Seattle?
A: It's dramatically lower. A Cost of Living Index of 89.6 means Billings is about 10% cheaper than the national average. Compared to Denver (~130+), your housing and everyday expenses will be less than half. A $37,075 salary in Billings is financially equivalent to earning over $50,000 in a high-cost city.

Q: Can I work as an MA in Montana with an out-of-state certification?
A: Yes. Montana recognizes nationally accredited certifications. If you hold a CMA, RMA, or NCMA, you can work in Montana. You do not need to transfer or re-certify for a state license.

Q: What is the typical work schedule for an MA in Billings?
A: It varies by setting. Hospital-based MAs often work 8- or 10-hour shifts, sometimes including weekends or on-call. Clinic-based MAs usually work Monday-Friday, 8-5, with occasional late evenings. Urgent care and specialty clinics may have more varied hours. Always ask about the schedule during the interview.

Data Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, Montana Department of Labor & Industry, Zillow Rent Data, BestPlaces Cost of Living Index, and local employer job boards.