Cosmetologist Salary in Nebraska
The median cosmetologist salary in Nebraska is $31,572 per year, which is 10% below the national median of $35,080.
Cosmetologist Salary Overview in Nebraska (2026)
Nebraska ranks #36 out of 50 states for cosmetologist compensation. Cosmetologist salaries in Nebraska are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $31,572 per year, cosmetologists in Nebraska earn $3,508 less than the national median of $35,080.
A key advantage of working in Nebraska is its below-average cost of living (90% of the national index). This means the $31,572 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $35,080 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Nebraska is significant: cosmetologists at the 10th percentile earn $19,800, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $52,200 — a $32,400 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Nebraska for this role is Omaha, where the median reaches $32,624.
Nationally, cosmetologist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for cosmetologists across the country.
Cosmetologist Salary in Nebraska by Experience
In Nebraska, an entry-level cosmetologist earns around $21,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $49,500 per year. The cost of living index in Nebraska is 90% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Nebraska
| Percentile | NE Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $19,800 |
| 25th Percentile | $24,300 |
| Median (50th) | $31,572 |
| 75th Percentile | $41,400 |
| 90th Percentile | $52,200 |
Cosmetologist Salary by City in Nebraska
The largest employment areas for cosmetologists in Nebraska include Omaha, Lincoln, Bellevue, and Grand Island. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Cosmetologist in Nebraska
Education
Most cosmetologist positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Nebraska has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Nebraska
Nationally, cosmetologist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Nebraska's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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