Salaries in Anaconda-Deer Lodge County, MT

Most people picture Montana and think wide-open spaces, but Anaconda-Deer Lodge County is a tight-knit industrial town where the median household income is just $49,533. Yet the unemployment rate is a remarkably low 2.6%. That tells you this isn’t a place of high-flying corporate jobs; it’s a community where steady work is the norm, even if the paychecks aren’t massive.

With a cost of living index of 103.0—just 3% above the national average—your dollars stretch, but not as far as you might expect. A one-bedroom apartment runs about $806 a month, which helps, but the overall COL adjustment still leaves you feeling the pinch. The real story here is purchasing power: you’re not getting a Montana bargain, but you’re not getting gouged either.

The local economy is anchored by healthcare, construction, and a surprising cluster of tech roles tied to remote work and software development. The Anaconda Smelter Stack is a historic landmark, but the modern economy leans more on practical trades and professional services. I was honestly surprised to see marketing managers in the top five—likely serving regional businesses or remote for bigger firms. That said, with only 22.3% of residents holding a bachelor’s degree, the path to these top-tier jobs isn’t crowded.

Here’s the honest truth: wages aren’t skyrocketing to match the modest cost increases, and you’ll need to be in one of the top occupations to feel truly comfortable. This city works well for skilled tradespeople, healthcare pros, and remote workers who can tap into higher salaries while enjoying Montana’s lifestyle.

The data below breaks down who earns what, and how far those paychecks actually go in this corner of Big Sky Country.