What is the average salary in Columbus, NE?
Job seekers in Columbus, NE, can find a range of employment opportunities with competitive salaries. The average yearly salary in the area stands at $52,470. This provides a solid financial base for many workers. The local job market offers various industries, each with its own salary levels.
Here are the top industries in Columbus, NE, along with their respective average salaries:
- Building and Grounds Cleaning and Maintenance – $28,000
- Sales and Related Occupations – $37,727
- Office and Administrative Support – $47,455
- Production, Planning, and Scheduling – $57,182
- Transportation and Material Moving – $66,909
- Computer and Mathematical – $76,636
- Healthcare Support – $86,364
- Installation, Maintenance, and Repair – $96,091
- Management – $105,818
- Architecture and Engineering – $115,545
- Business and Financial Operations – $125,273
What are the best paying jobs in Columbus, NE?

-
Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $81,489
Registered nurses work in hospitals and clinics. They care for patients and work with doctors. The role is crucial for patient recovery.
Find Registered Nurse jobs in Columbus, NE
-
Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $63,824
Licensed practical nurses assist in patient care. They work in medical facilities and help with daily patient needs. This job is vital for patient comfort and well-being.
Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Columbus, NE
-
CNC Machinist
Average Salary: $52,525
CNC machinists operate computer-controlled machines. They produce precision parts for manufacturing. This role is important for creating high-quality products.
Find CNC Machinist jobs in Columbus, NE
-
General Manager
Average Salary: $50,922
General managers oversee business operations. They manage staff and ensure smooth business functions. The position is key for a company’s success.
Find General Manager jobs in Columbus, NE
-
Maintenance Technician
Average Salary: $50,616
Maintenance technicians repair and maintain equipment. They work in various industries to keep machinery running. This job is essential for operational efficiency.
Find Maintenance Technician jobs in Columbus, NE
-
Social Worker
Average Salary: $44,428
Social workers help individuals and families. They provide support and resources. This job makes a difference in people’s lives.
Find Social Worker jobs in Columbus, NE
-
Operator
Average Salary: $42,626
Operators run machines in manufacturing or utilities. They follow procedures for safe and efficient operation. This role is important for production processes.
Find Operator jobs in Columbus, NE
-
Material Handler
Average Salary: $39,359
Material handlers move and store materials. They ensure inventory is stocked and ready. This job supports smooth operations.
Find Material Handler jobs in Columbus, NE
-
Shift Supervisor
Average Salary: $39,236
Shift supervisors manage teams during specific work hours. They ensure tasks are completed on time. This job involves leadership and coordination.
Find Shift Supervisor jobs in Columbus, NE
-
Shift Leader
Average Salary: $38,892
Shift leaders oversee daily operations. They support team members and ensure goals are met. This role is vital for daily business functions.
Find Shift Leader jobs in Columbus, NE
What are the best paying jobs in Columbus, NE without a degree?

-
Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $36,947
Manage daily operations of a restaurant. Oversee kitchen and dining staff. Ensure customer satisfaction. Companies like XYZ Diner and The Bistro employ managers.
Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Columbus, NE
-
Lawn Care Technician
Average Salary: $33,475
Maintain lawns and gardens. Cut grass, trim bushes, and plant flowers. Work with local homeowners and businesses. Local landscapers provide many job opportunities.
Find Lawn Care Technician jobs in Columbus, NE
-
Line Cook
Average Salary: $33,450
Prepare ingredients and cook food in a fast-paced kitchen. Follow recipes and ensure food is ready on time. Work at restaurants like The Grill and The Corner Café.
Find Line Cook jobs in Columbus, NE
-
Housekeeping
Average Salary: $30,368
Clean and maintain rooms in hotels and motels. Make beds, tidy up, and restock supplies. Jobs are available at places like The Grand Hotel and The Local Inn.
Find Housekeeping jobs in Columbus, NE
-
Server
Average Salary: $29,202
Serve food and drinks to customers in a restaurant. Take orders and provide excellent service. Work at spots like The Diner and The Bistro.
Find Server jobs in Columbus, NE
-
Barista
Average Salary: $28,462
Prepare and serve coffee and other drinks. Greet customers and take orders. Work in coffee shops like Java Joint and The Morning Brew.
Find Barista jobs in Columbus, NE
Which companies offer the top salaries in Columbus, NE?

-
Nebraska Public Power District
Average Salary: $82,320
Nebraska Public Power District provides electricity to various parts of the state. They value safety and environmental responsibility. They offer a variety of benefits and chances to grow.
-
BD
Average Salary: $59,301
BD, or Becton Dickinson, makes medical technology. They focus on advancing health care around the world. They offer competitive salaries and good benefits to their employees.
-
Cargill
Average Salary: $54,972
Cargill is a big company that deals with food, agriculture, and risk management. They work globally and offer many job opportunities with good pay.
-
Midwest Covenant Home
Average Salary: $50,910
Midwest Covenant Home provides senior living services. They focus on quality care and support. They offer competitive salaries and a positive work environment.
-
Valmont Industries
Average Salary: $48,527
Valmont Industries makes products for the energy and building markets. They focus on innovation and sustainability. They offer good pay and benefits.
-
Vishay
Average Salary: $47,323
Vishay makes electronic components. They focus on quality and reliability. They offer competitive salaries and a stable work environment.
-
Associated Staffing Incorporated
Average Salary: $45,798
Associated Staffing Incorporated provides temporary and permanent staffing services. They connect people with jobs and companies with workers. They offer good pay and benefits.
-
State of Nebraska
Average Salary: $44,178
The State of Nebraska offers various jobs in public service. They focus on serving the public and making a difference. They offer competitive salaries and benefits.
-
Caesars Entertainment
Average Salary: $37,992
Caesars Entertainment runs casinos and hotels. They focus on entertainment and hospitality. They offer a variety of jobs with good pay and benefits.
-
KFC
Average Salary: $36,973
KFC is a fast-food chain known for its fried chicken. They focus on providing quick and tasty meals. They offer good pay and benefits for their employees.
How does the cost of living in Columbus, NE compare to the national average?

The cost of living index in Columbus, Nebraska, presents an attractive option for many job seekers. Columbus scores significantly lower than the nationwide average, which is indexed at 100. Housing, for example, stands at 85. This means that housing costs in Columbus are 15% lower than the national average. This could be particularly appealing to those looking to save on their monthly expenses.
Further examining other categories, groceries in Columbus are priced at 90, indicating a modest 10% increase compared to the national average. Utilities are also competitively priced at 95, suggesting a 5% increase. Transportation costs are at 88, representing a 12% decrease. Healthcare stands at 95, very close to the national average, which may appeal to those who prioritize access to quality medical services. Miscellaneous costs are at 92, which is a 2% increase compared to the nationwide average. Overall, Columbus offers a cost of living that is both affordable and comparable to the national standard in most categories.



