Montana · BLS OEWS May 2025
The highest paying trades in Montana
Seven skilled trades, ranked by what they actually pay in Montana. Lineworkers lead at a $110,320 median, and our 10-year model puts that path $683,439 ahead of the average college route. Every number is BLS data; every trade links to its full state breakdown.
Reviewed by Brad Zemke, third-generation tradesman, 20+ years in the field.
| # | Trade | Median | Per hour | 10-yr edge vs college |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lineworker | $110,320 | $53.04/hr | $683,439 |
| 2 | Elevator Installer | $90,370 | $43.45/hr | $492,313 |
| 3 | Plumber | $79,960 | $38.44/hr | $407,525 |
| 4 | Electrician | $76,760 | $36.90/hr | $359,705 |
| 5 | Aircraft Mechanic | $64,170 | $30.85/hr | $294,314 |
| 6 | Wind Turbine Technician | $62,360 | $29.98/hr | $296,557 |
| 7 | Heavy Equipment Operator | $61,580 | $29.61/hr | $261,274 |
| 8 | HVAC Technician | $60,850 | $29.25/hr | $270,429 |
| 9 | Diesel Mechanic | $59,990 | $28.84/hr | $252,845 |
| 10 | CDL Truck Driver | $58,870 | $28.30/hr | $265,952 |
| 11 | Carpenter | $58,820 | $28.28/hr | $226,241 |
| 12 | Auto Mechanic | $58,740 | $28.24/hr | $245,775 |
| 13 | Welder | $55,610 | $26.74/hr | $223,015 |
"10-yr edge" = cumulative net earnings advantage over the average bachelor's path after 10 years, per our documented model. Elevator installer pay is real, but union apprenticeship entry is competitive.
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