Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Nebraska
The median substance abuse counselor salary in Nebraska is $44,739 per year, which is 10% below the national median of $49,710.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary Overview in Nebraska (2026)
Nebraska ranks #37 out of 50 states for substance abuse counselor compensation. Substance Abuse Counselor salaries in Nebraska are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $44,739 per year, substance abuse counselors in Nebraska earn $4,971 less than the national median of $49,710.
A key advantage of working in Nebraska is its below-average cost of living (90% of the national index). This means the $44,739 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $49,710 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Nebraska is significant: substance abuse counselors at the 10th percentile earn $27,000, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $73,800 — a $46,800 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 $46,230.
Nationally, substance abuse counselor employment is projected to grow 22% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Nebraska and beyond.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Nebraska by Experience
In Nebraska, an entry-level substance abuse counselor earns around $29,700, while experienced professionals earn up to $70,200 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 | $27,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $34,200 |
| Median (50th) | $44,739 |
| 75th Percentile | $58,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $73,800 |
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary by City in Nebraska
The largest employment areas for substance abuse counselors 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 Substance Abuse Counselor in Nebraska
Education
Most substance abuse counselor positions require a bachelor's degree. Nebraska has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Nebraska
Nationally, substance abuse counselor employment is projected to grow 22% over the next decade (much faster than average). Nebraska's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
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