Cosmetologist Salary in Lincoln, Nebraska
The median cosmetologist salary in Lincoln, NE is $31,572 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 0.0% above the Nebraska state average.
Cosmetologist Pay in Lincoln: What to Expect (2026)
Lincoln offers a median cosmetologist salary of $31,572, which is $0 above the Nebraska state average of $31,572. Compared to the national median of $35,080, Lincoln pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Lincoln's cost of living is 90% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for cosmetologists in Lincoln spans from $19,800 at the 10th percentile to $52,200 at the 90th percentile — a $32,400 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $21,600, while senior cosmetologists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $49,500. With a population of 291,082, Lincoln is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Cosmetologist Salary in Lincoln by Experience
In Lincoln, an entry-level cosmetologist earns around $21,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $49,500 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Lincoln, NE
| Percentile | Lincoln |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $19,800 |
| 25th Percentile | $24,300 |
| Median (50th) | $31,572 |
| 75th Percentile | $41,400 |
| 90th Percentile | $52,200 |
Cosmetologist Salary in Other Nebraska Cities
How to Become a Cosmetologist in Lincoln
Education
Most cosmetologist positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Lincoln and the surrounding Nebraska area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, cosmetologist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Lincoln may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Cosmetologist Jobs in Lincoln
Browse open cosmetologist positions in Lincoln, NE: