Optometrist Salary in Nebraska
The median optometrist salary in Nebraska is $113,031 per year, which is 10% below the national median of $125,590.
Optometrist Salary Overview in Nebraska (2026)
Nebraska ranks #37 out of 50 states for optometrist compensation. Optometrist salaries in Nebraska are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $113,031 per year, optometrists in Nebraska earn $12,559 less than the national median of $125,590.
A key advantage of working in Nebraska is its below-average cost of living (90% of the national index). This means the $113,031 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $125,590 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Nebraska is significant: optometrists at the 10th percentile earn $70,200, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $172,800 — a $102,600 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 $116,799.
Nationally, optometrist employment is projected to grow 9% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for optometrists across the country.
Optometrist Salary in Nebraska by Experience
In Nebraska, an entry-level optometrist earns around $73,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $160,200 per year. The cost of living index in Nebraska is 90% of the national average.
You May Qualify for Premium Rewards
Professionals earning $113,031+ often qualify for premium rewards cards with $500+ signup bonuses and 2–5% cashback on every purchase.
View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Nebraska
| Percentile | NE Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $70,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $90,000 |
| Median (50th) | $113,031 |
| 75th Percentile | $142,200 |
| 90th Percentile | $172,800 |
Optometrist Salary by City in Nebraska
The largest employment areas for optometrists 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 Optometrist in Nebraska
Education
Most optometrist positions require a doctoral degree. Nebraska has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Nebraska
Nationally, optometrist employment is projected to grow 9% over the next decade (faster than average). Nebraska's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Optometrists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $47,169 over your career trajectory.
Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →Open to Optometrist Roles in Nebraska?
Get matched with recruiters hiring optometrists in Nebraska at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: