As of July 01, 2026, the average salary for a Loan Underwriter I in Montana is $56,096 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $27.
However, a Loan Underwriter I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Loan Underwriter I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Loan Underwriter I's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Loan Underwriter I | 0-2 years | $56,096 |
| Loan Underwriter II | 2-4 years | $65,503 |
| Loan Underwriter III | 4-7 years | $80,685 |
| Loan Underwriter IV | 7+ years | $97,973 |
| Loan Underwriting Supervisor | 7+ years | $90,157 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Loan Underwriter Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Loan Underwriter I salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $59,837. While startup companies pay approximate $50,778.
| Company Size | Employees | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Startup | 1~50 | $50,778 |
| Growth Stage | 51~500 | $53,666 |
| Established | 501~5000 | $57,837 |
| Enterprise | 5000+ | $59,837 |
For Loan Underwriter I roles, the industry you choose can impact your earning potential by as much as 60% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the highest-paying industry, Financial Services, offers compensation 30% above the average. Conversely, Loan Underwriter positions in Business Services typically offer lower base pay, as this sector often view Loan Underwriter I as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Financial Services | $72,924 | $35.0 | 30% |
Understanding how a Loan Underwriter I's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on July 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Loan Underwriter I, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Mortgage Underwriter II | $69,235 | 23% |
| Loan Underwriter II | $65,503 | 17% |
Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Loan Underwriter I job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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