Science & Research Nebraska (NE) Rank #36 of 50

Geologist Salary in Nebraska

The median geologist salary in Nebraska is $75,312 per year, which is 10% below the national median of $83,680.

Median Salary
$75,312
vs National
$-8,368
State Rank
#36 of 50
Cost of Living
90%

Geologist Salary Overview in Nebraska (2026)

Nebraska ranks #36 out of 50 states for geologist compensation. Geologist salaries in Nebraska are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $75,312 per year, geologists in Nebraska earn $8,368 less than the national median of $83,680.

A key advantage of working in Nebraska is its below-average cost of living (90% of the national index). This means the $75,312 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $83,680 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Nebraska is significant: geologists at the 10th percentile earn $45,900, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $133,200 — a $87,300 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 $77,822.

Nationally, geologist employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for geologists across the country.

Geologist Salary in Nebraska by Experience

In Nebraska, an entry-level geologist earns around $48,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $126,000 per year. The cost of living index in Nebraska is 90% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$48,600
$-5,400 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$76,500
$-8,500 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$126,000
$-14,000 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Nebraska

Percentile NE Salary
10th Percentile $45,900
25th Percentile $56,700
Median (50th) $75,312
75th Percentile $100,800
90th Percentile $133,200

Geologist Salary by City in Nebraska

The largest employment areas for geologists 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 Geologist in Nebraska

Education

Most geologist positions require a bachelor's degree. Nebraska has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Field GeologyGISRock AnalysisStratigraphyEnvironmental AssessmentTechnical Writing

Job Outlook in Nebraska

Nationally, geologist employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Nebraska's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Data shows Geologists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $50,688 over your career trajectory.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Geologist Salary in Nebraska

How much does a Geologist make in Nebraska? ▼
The median geologist salary in Nebraska is $75,312 per year, which is 10% below the national median of $83,680. Salaries range from $45,900 (10th percentile) to $133,200 (90th percentile).
How much does a Geologist make per hour in Nebraska? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $75,312, a geologist in Nebraska earns approximately $36 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Nebraska a good state for geologists? ▼
Nebraska ranks #36 out of 50 states for geologist pay. The cost of living index is 90% of the national average. Entry-level geologists earn $48,600, while senior professionals earn $126,000.
How does Nebraska compare to other states for geologist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for geologists is Hawaii at $142,256. Nebraska's median of $75,312 ranks #36 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Indiana ($75,312) and Michigan ($75,312).
What is the entry-level geologist salary in Nebraska? ▼
An entry-level geologist in Nebraska earns approximately $48,600 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $76,500. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $126,000.
What city in Nebraska pays geologists the most? ▼
Omaha is the highest paying city in Nebraska for geologists, with a median salary of $77,822. Other cities include Lincoln and Bellevue.