Nebraska Salaries 2025
Omaha's financial strength meets heartland affordability
Median Household Income
Nebraska Salary Overview 2025
Nebraska punches above its weight economically, led by Omaha's remarkable concentration of Fortune 500 companies and financial services. The state's median household income of $66,500 approaches the national median, while Nebraska's cost of living (91 index, 9% below average) creates excellent purchasing power.
Omaha is home to Berkshire Hathaway, Warren Buffett's conglomerate and one of the world's most valuable companies. The city also hosts Union Pacific Railroad, Mutual of Omaha, Kiewit Corporation, and TD Ameritrade (now Schwab). This corporate density creates finance, insurance, and professional services employment rivaling much larger metros.
Nebraska has reduced taxes significantly in recent years, with the top rate falling to 5.84%. Combined with affordable housing, strong schools, and low unemployment, Nebraska offers genuine quality of life. For comprehensive salary data, see salary trends 2025.
Nebraska Salary Snapshot
| Metric | Nebraska | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| Median Household Income | $66,500 | $74,580 |
| Mean Household Income | $85,000 | $97,300 |
| Per Capita Income | $35,800 | $37,638 |
| Minimum Wage (2025) | $12.00/hr | $7.25/hr (federal) |
| Cost of Living Index | 91 | 100 |
| Top Income Tax Rate | 5.84% | Varies |
Salaries by Nebraska Region
Omaha Metro – Financial Powerhouse
Median Household Income: $72,000
Omaha drives Nebraska's economy with an extraordinary concentration of corporate headquarters. Berkshire Hathaway, Union Pacific, Mutual of Omaha, Kiewit, and TD Ameritrade/Schwab create finance and corporate employment. Software engineers earn $80,000-$130,000, finance professionals $60,000-$140,000, insurance actuaries $75,000-$160,000. Housing remains remarkably affordable ($290,000 median) for a metro with this corporate base.
Lincoln – State Capital & University
Median Household Income: $62,000
Lincoln combines state government with University of Nebraska. The university drives education, research, and Husker athletics culture. Very affordable ($260,000 median home) with college-town energy. Faculty $65,000-$150,000.
| Region | Median Income | Median Home | Key Industries |
|---|---|---|---|
| Omaha Metro | $72,000 | $290,000 | Finance, Insurance, Corporate HQs |
| Lincoln | $62,000 | $260,000 | Government, Education, Healthcare |
| Grand Island | $55,000 | $190,000 | Agriculture, Meatpacking |
Top Paying Industries in Nebraska
Finance & Insurance
Omaha is a genuine financial center. Berkshire Hathaway's insurance operations (GEICO, General Re) employ thousands. Mutual of Omaha, TD Ameritrade/Schwab add depth. Actuaries $75,000-$170,000, financial analysts $60,000-$120,000, investment professionals $80,000-$250,000+.
Transportation & Logistics
Union Pacific Railroad (Fortune 150) is headquartered in Omaha. Engineers $75,000-$130,000, operations managers $70,000-$120,000. Railroad positions offer strong benefits and job security.
Construction & Engineering
Kiewit Corporation is one of North America's largest construction companies. Engineers $70,000-$130,000, project managers $80,000-$150,000.
| Industry | Entry Level | Mid-Career | Senior Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Insurance (Actuarial) | $70,000 | $110,000 | $170,000+ |
| Finance | $55,000 | $90,000 | $150,000+ |
| Railroad (Union Pacific) | $60,000 | $90,000 | $130,000+ |
| Healthcare (Physicians) | $250,000 | $320,000 | $400,000+ |
Nebraska Tax & Cost Analysis
Nebraska's top rate of 5.84% is moderate. Property taxes average 1.61%—above national average.
| Expense | Nebraska | National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Housing Index | 80 | 100 |
| Median Home Price | $250,000 | $420,000 |
| Median Rent (2BR) | $1,100 | $1,400 |
A $70,000 salary in Nebraska provides equivalent purchasing power to approximately $90,000 in Denver or $115,000 in Los Angeles.
Highest Paying Jobs in Nebraska 2025
| Occupation | Average Salary | Top 10% Earn |
|---|---|---|
| Physicians/Surgeons | $280,000 | $400,000+ |
| Actuaries (FSA) | $140,000 | $190,000+ |
| IT Directors | $130,000 | $175,000+ |
| Financial Managers | $120,000 | $175,000+ |
| Software Architects | $125,000 | $165,000+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Omaha really a financial center?
Absolutely. Berkshire Hathaway alone makes Omaha significant, but the depth includes major insurance operations, TD Ameritrade/Schwab, and numerous financial services companies. For insurance and finance careers, Omaha offers more opportunity per capita than most metros.
What's quality of life like?
Surprisingly good. Excellent restaurants, cultural amenities, and passionate college sports culture. Low traffic, affordable housing, and strong schools create family-friendly environment.