Firefighter Salaries in Nebraska — 2026 Overview
BLS 2026How much does a firefighter make in Nebraska? The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median salary of $61,760/yr ($29.69/hr), with around 1,060 people working in this field statewide.
Firefighter salaries in Nebraska are above the national average by approximately $4,398. Nebraska has a state income tax rate of up to 5.84%.
A solid industrial economy and stable population mean firefighters in Nebraska enjoy reliable job security.
Nebraska Firefighter Take-Home Pay Calculator
InteractiveEnter your gross annual salary to estimate take-home pay in Nebraska after federal tax, Social Security and Medicare. Nebraska has a state income tax rate of up to 5.84%.
Estimate based on 2026 federal tax brackets, single filer, standard deduction. Nebraska has a state income tax rate of up to 5.84%. Does not account for local taxes or benefit deductions.
Am I Paid Fairly? — Nebraska Firefighter Check
InteractiveEnter your current salary to see how it compares to the Nebraska median of $61,760.
Firefighter Salary by Experience — Nebraska
Firefighter Salary Trend in Nebraska — 2021 to 2026
5-Year DataFive-year wage growth for firefighters in Nebraska: 13.9% — a useful benchmark when negotiating pay or planning a career move. The growth reflects broader workforce and economic conditions in Nebraska's fire protection and emergency services.
Firefighter Salary by City — Nebraska
BLS Metro Data| City / Metro Area | Annual Median | Hourly | vs State | Jobs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Omaha | $68,550 | $32.96 | +11.0% | 371 |
| Lincoln | $65,450 | $31.47 | +6.0% | 296 |
| Bellevue | $63,600 | $30.58 | +3.0% | 190 |
| Grand Island | $59,300 | $28.51 | -4.0% | 95 |
| Kearney | $56,200 | $27.02 | -9.0% | 63 |
| Fremont | $53,750 | $25.84 | -13.0% | 50 |
Tip: Omaha offers the highest firefighter salaries in Nebraska at $68,550/yr — +11.0% above the state average.
Nebraska vs Nearby States — Purchasing Power
Cost of Living AdjustedGross salary figures don't tell the whole story. After adjusting for state income tax, Nebraska sits in the mid-range for firefighters.
Take-home estimates based on single filer, standard deduction, 2026 federal brackets. Nebraska has a state income tax rate of up to 5.84%.
Firefighter Job Outlook in Nebraska
BLS ProjectionsEmployment for firefighters in Nebraska is projected to grow over the next decade, driven by strong demand across the Nebraska job market. A solid industrial economy and stable population mean firefighters in Nebraska enjoy reliable job security.
How to Earn More as a Firefighter in Nebraska
1. Pursue advanced certification or licensing. Moving from entry to senior level as a firefighter in Nebraska typically adds $50,600 to your annual salary. Additional certifications from the State Fire Marshal's Office can accelerate this progression.
2. Target the highest-paying city. Omaha pays firefighters $68,550/yr — +11.0% above the Nebraska average. Simply relocating within Nebraska can meaningfully increase your income without changing careers.
3. Specialise in high-demand areas. Firefighters who specialise in fire protection and emergency services typically command premium rates in Nebraska. Identifying growing niches within your field is one of the fastest paths to higher pay.
4. Consider neighbouring states. South Dakota pays firefighters $47,520/yr — -23.1% vs Nebraska.
Find Firefighter Jobs in Nebraska
Live ListingsSearch current firefighter job vacancies in Nebraska:
🔍 Firefighter jobs in Nebraska — Indeed→ 🔍 Firefighter jobs in Nebraska — ZipRecruiter→ 🔍 Firefighter jobs — Omaha, NE→