Physical Therapist in Great Falls, MT

The Salary Picture: Where Great Falls Stands

Coming from a local's perspective, the first thing you need to know about the Physical Therapy job market in Great Falls is that it’s stable but not explosive. The median salary for a Physical Therapist in the Great Falls metro area is $97,496/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $46.87/hour. This is slightly below the national average of $99,710/year, but it’s crucial to understand the context. Great Falls is a regional healthcare hub for a vast, rural area, which creates steady demand but also means salaries are calibrated to a local economy, not a coastal metro.

Let’s break this down by experience level to give you a realistic picture of your earning potential. Remember, these are estimates based on local job postings and BLS data for Montana.

Experience Level	Typical Salary Range (Great Falls)	Notes
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$78,000 - $88,000	Often starting at large hospital systems or outpatient clinics. Benefits and loan repayment programs can sweeten the deal.
Mid-Career (3-8 years)	$92,000 - $105,000	This is where most experienced PTs land, especially those with specialized skills (ortho, neuro) in outpatient settings.
Senior (9-15 years)	$102,000 - $115,000	Often involves supervisory roles, mentoring, or leading a specialty program at a facility like the VA or a major hospital.
Expert/Specialist (15+ years)	$110,000 - $125,000+	Typically clinical specialists, directors of rehab, or private practice owners with a strong referral network.

How does this compare to other Montana cities? Great Falls sits in the middle of the pack. Billings, as the state's largest city and a major medical destination, often sees salaries $5,000 - $10,000 higher for similar roles. Missoula, a university town with a strong tech and healthcare economy, is also competitive, sometimes edging out Great Falls. Bozeman’s cost of living is significantly higher, and while salaries are also high, many PTs there feel the financial pinch more acutely. Great Falls offers a unique value proposition: a solid, middle-of-the-road salary paired with a very low cost of living. The 10-year job growth rate for this metro is 14%, which is healthy and indicates sustained, long-term demand, largely driven by the aging population and the presence of critical care facilities.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get down to brass tacks. A salary of $97,496/year looks different on paper than it does in your bank account. Here’s a realistic monthly budget breakdown for a single professional in Great Falls. We’ll use single filer estimates for federal taxes (including FICA) and Montana’s state income tax (which ranges from 1% to 6.75%). We'll also factor in the local average 1BR rent.

Category	Monthly Amount (Est.)	Notes
Gross Monthly Pay	$8,125	Based on $97,496/year.
Federal & State Taxes (Est.)	~$2,100	This is a rough estimate. Use a MT-specific tax calculator for precision.
Take-Home Pay (Net)	~$6,025	After taxes. Health insurance premiums (often $150-$300/month) will subtract from this.
Average 1BR Rent	$745	This is the city-wide average. We'll break down neighborhoods below.
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Internet)	$200	Varies by season; heating costs in winter can be significant.
Groceries & Essentials	$400	A reasonable budget for one.
Car Payment/Insurance	$450	Assumes a modest car payment and insurance. Public transit is limited.
Student Loan Payment	$300	Varies by debt load.
401(k) / Retirement (5%)	$406	$97,496 / 12 / 20 = ~$406. Highly recommended.
Discretionary / Savings	$1,124	Left for eating out, entertainment, hobbies, and general savings.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. This is one of Great Falls' biggest advantages. Let’s say you want to buy a 3-bedroom home. The median home price in Great Falls is approximately $325,000. With a 20% down payment ($65,000), a 30-year fixed mortgage at 7% (current market rate) would have a monthly principal and interest payment of around $1,570. Add property taxes ($250/month) and insurance ($100/month), and you’re looking at a total housing payment of roughly $1,920.

On a take-home pay of ~$6,025, a $1,920 mortgage is roughly 32% of your net income. This is well within the standard "safe" range (30-35% of gross pay). It’s far more attainable here than in cities where home prices easily exceed $500,000 or $600,000. Saving for the down payment is the biggest hurdle, but with a lower cost of living, it’s a realistic goal for most PTs within a few years.

Where the Jobs Are: Great Falls's Major Employers

Great Falls is a healthcare anchor for north-central Montana. The job market is dominated by a few key players, each with its own culture and patient population. Here’s an insider’s look at where to apply.

1. Benefis Health System: The largest private employer in the region. Benefis is a comprehensive system with a Level II Trauma Center, a cardiac center, and a robust rehab department. They have inpatient acute care, outpatient orthopedic clinics, and a growing SNF (Skilled Nursing Facility) division. Hiring trends are consistent; they often recruit new grads and experienced PTs for their outpatient clinics, which see a high volume of sports medicine and post-surgical cases. Insider Tip: Benefis is known for strong benefits, including potential for loan repayment programs, but the pace in the inpatient setting can be demanding.

2. The VA Montana Health Care System - Great Falls Clinic: The VA is a major employer for PTs, offering a stable, federal job with excellent benefits and a pension. The Great Falls clinic serves a significant veteran population, often dealing with complex orthopedic, neurological, and chronic pain conditions. The work-life balance is typically better than in private practice. Hiring is steady but can be slow due to the federal hiring process. Insider Tip: Patience and a clean background check are essential.

3. Great Falls Clinic Hospital: A physician-owned, not-for-profit hospital that is a cornerstone of the community. Their rehab department includes inpatient rehab (IPR) and outpatient services. They are known for a collaborative, community-focused environment. They often have openings for PTs with experience in neurological rehab or geriatrics. Insider Tip: This is a great place for PTs who want to work in a smaller, more intimate hospital setting compared to the larger Benefis system.

4. Mountain View Medical Center (MVMC): A 99-bed hospital that’s part of the BSA Health System. They provide a range of services and have a dedicated rehab team. They frequently hire for outpatient and home health positions. The patient population is diverse, from pediatric to geriatric. Insider Tip: MVMC often has opportunities for PTs looking to break into home health, which offers a different pace and autonomy.

5. Private Practice & Specialty Clinics: There are several smaller, niche practices in Great Falls. For example, clinics specializing in pelvic health, vestibular therapy, or sports performance. These often require (or allow you to develop) a specialty. Hiring is less structured; it’s about networking and being in the right place at the right time. Insider Tip: Attend the Montana Physical Therapy Association (MPTA) conferences and local events. Many private practice jobs are filled through referrals.

Getting Licensed in MT

Montana’s licensing process is straightforward but requires attention to detail. The Montana Board of Physical Therapy Examiners oversees it.

1. Education & Exam: You must graduate from a CAPTE-accredited DPT program and pass the NPTE (National Physical Therapy Examination). This is the same nationwide.
2. Jurisprudence Exam: Montana requires a state-specific jurisprudence exam, which you can take online after submitting your application. It tests your knowledge of Montana’s PT practice act and rules. The fee is $50.
3. Application & Fees: Submit your application through the Montana Board’s portal. The initial licensure fee is $150. You’ll need to verify your education, exam scores (send directly from the FSBPT), and background check. The background check fee is $30.
4. Timeline: From submitting a complete application to receiving your license, plan for 4-8 weeks. It’s not instantaneous. You can start the process before you move by taking the jurisprudence exam online. Most employers will want to see your Montana license number before your first day.
5. Cost Summary: Budget around $230 for fees (licensure, jurisprudence, background check), plus the cost of the NPTE itself. Keep in mind that most employers in Great Falls will cover your initial licensing fees as part of your employment package.

Best Neighborhoods for Physical Therapists

Great Falls is divided into distinct areas, each with a different feel. Your choice will depend on your commute, lifestyle, and budget.

1. South Great Falls (Sun River, West Hills): This is the most desirable area for professionals. It’s close to the river, with newer housing developments, excellent schools, and easy access to the major hospitals (Benefis, Great Falls Clinic) within a 10-15 minute drive. The vibe is family-friendly and quiet. Rent Estimate: A 1BR in this area might run $850 - $1,000/month, slightly above the city average.

2. Central Great Falls (Downtown, Black Eagle): Offers a more urban, walkable feel. You’re close to local eateries, coffee shops, and the historic downtown district. The commute to the hospitals is quick (5-10 minutes). Housing can be a mix of older apartments and renovated homes. Rent Estimate: $700 - $900/month for a 1BR. This area is popular with younger professionals who value a shorter commute and walkability.

3. North Great Falls (Hillcrest, Northside): A quieter, more residential area. Commutes are still reasonable (10-15 minutes to downtown hospitals). Housing is often more affordable, with many single-family homes. It’s less flashy but very functional. Rent Estimate: $650 - $800/month for a 1BR. Good for those prioritizing space and a lower cost of living.

4. Giant Springs / River's Edge: This area is on the far north side, near the River's Edge Park and the Giant Springs State Park. It’s beautiful, with newer subdivisions and a strong sense of community. The trade-off is a longer commute to the hospital cluster (15-20 minutes), but you get more house for your money. Rent Estimate: $750 - $950/month for a 1BR or townhome.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In Great Falls, career growth often means specialization or moving into leadership.

• Specialty Premiums: While there isn’t a formal "premium," PTs with credentials in Orthopedics (OCS), Neurology (NCS), or Women’s Health can command higher salaries and have more leverage in negotiations, especially in outpatient settings. A PT with an OCS working at an orthopedic clinic in Great Falls might earn $105,000 - $115,000 compared to the median of $97,496.
• Advancement Paths: The most common path is from clinician to senior clinician, then to a Clinical Supervisor or Director of Rehab role, particularly within a hospital system like Benefis or the VA. Another path is into home health, where you can earn a higher per-visit rate and manage your own caseload, though salaries can be variable. Private practice ownership is a longer-term goal for some, requiring business acumen and a strong community network.
• 10-Year Outlook: With 14% job growth, the market is expected to remain robust. The aging population in Montana will continue to drive demand for geriatric and chronic disease management. Specialties in fall prevention, cardiopulmonary rehab, and oncology rehab are likely to see increased demand. The key to long-term success in Great Falls is building a reputation for quality care and networking within the tight-knit medical community.

The Verdict: Is Great Falls Right for You?

This is not a decision to take lightly. Great Falls offers a unique lifestyle that is vastly different from urban centers.

Pros	Cons
Very Low Cost of Living: Your $97,496 salary goes much further, especially for home ownership.	Limited Entertainment/Dining: No major concert venues, pro sports teams, or diverse food scene compared to a big city.
Stable Job Market: The 120 jobs in the metro and 14% growth indicate consistent demand.	Winters are Long & Harsh: Be prepared for significant snowfall and cold temperatures from October to April.
Outdoor Access: Unparalleled access to hunting, fishing, hiking, and Big Sky Country.	Social Scene Can Be Small: It’s a tight-knit community; social circles can be harder to break into if you’re not from here.
Work-Life Balance: Many employers (especially the VA) offer predictable schedules and less "on-call" pressure.	Travel is Required: For specialized care or major travel, you’ll likely fly out of Great Falls International Airport.
Sense of Community: You’ll become a known member of the community, not an anonymous face.	Limited Diversity: The population is predominantly white; cultural and ethnic diversity is less visible.

Final Recommendation: Great Falls is an excellent choice for Physical Therapists who prioritize affordability, stability, and a close connection to the outdoors. It’s ideal for those looking to build equity in a home, enjoy a slower pace of life, and feel like a vital part of a community. It may not be the best fit for those who crave the constant energy, diversity, and anonymity of a large city. If you value your disposable income and free time over nightlife and cultural events, Great Falls could be a perfect long-term career and life move.

FAQs

1. What is the typical schedule for a PT in Great Falls?
Most outpatient clinics operate on a standard 8am-5pm or 8:30am-5:30pm schedule, Monday-Friday. Hospital-based positions (inpatient rehab, acute care) may require some weekend or on-call rotations, but they are generally predictable. Home health roles offer more flexibility but can involve evening visits.

2. Is it feasible to commute from a nearby town?
Yes, but with caveats. Commuting from towns like Cascade (30 min) or Shelby (45 min) is common. However, winter weather can make these commutes dangerous and unpredictable. Most PTs I know prefer to live within the city limits. Gas prices are typically lower than the national average.

3. How competitive is the job market?
It’s moderately competitive. There are jobs, but openings at top employers like Benefis or the VA might attract 50-100 applicants. Having a Montana license already in hand (or in process) and being willing to start in a less glamorous role (like a SNF or home health) can give you a significant edge. Networking is key.

4. What’s the continuing education scene like?
Montana requires 15 CEUs per license renewal period. The MPTA hosts an annual conference, which is a great local option. Most PTs also take advantage of online courses. Great Falls is far from major national conferences, so you’ll need to budget for travel if you want in-person learning from top national experts.

5. What’s the one thing I should know before moving?
The community is the biggest factor. Great Falls has a strong "townie" culture. People are generally friendly, but building deep friendships takes time and genuine effort. Get involved in community activities—a church, a running group, a hunting club—and you’ll find your place. It’s not a transient city; people plant roots here for generations. If you’re open to that, it can be incredibly rewarding.