What is the average salary in Kearney, NE?
Kearney, NE, offers a range of salary opportunities across different industries. The average yearly salary in Kearney is around $54,177. This figure can vary significantly based on the type of job and the level of experience. Job seekers can find roles offering competitive pay, making Kearney an attractive location for employment.
The distribution of salaries in Kearney shows a diverse range of earnings. The most common salary falls between $29,000 and $40,000, which makes up a significant portion of the workforce. Higher salaries are also available in sectors such as healthcare, finance, and technology. Below is a breakdown of the salary distribution in Kearney:
- 34.90% of the jobs offer salaries between $29,000 and $40,000
- 24.95% of the jobs offer salaries between $40,000 and $51,000
- 9.24% of the jobs offer salaries between $51,000 and $62,000
- 5.71% of the jobs offer salaries between $62,000 and $73,000
- 5.78% of the jobs offer salaries between $73,000 and $84,000
- 5.48% of the jobs offer salaries between $84,000 and $95,000
- 3.31% of the jobs offer salaries between $95,000 and $106,000
- 2.00% of the jobs offer salaries between $106,000 and $117,000
- 1.83% of the jobs offer salaries between $117,000 and $128,000
- 0.94% of the jobs offer salaries between $128,000 and $139,000
- 0.86% of the jobs offer salaries over $139,000
What are the best paying jobs in Kearney, NE?

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Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $113,719
Traveling nurses move from one healthcare facility to another. They help where there is a shortage of staff. Opportunities exist in hospitals, clinics, and specialized care centers. These positions offer flexibility and diverse experiences.
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Surgical Technician
Average Salary: $89,121
Surgical technicians assist surgeons during operations. They prepare the operating room and help during procedures. Working in hospitals, they ensure everything is sterile and ready. The job demands precision and a steady hand.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $88,382
Registered nurses provide essential care to patients. They work in hospitals, clinics, and home care settings. They manage patient care and coordinate with doctors and other healthcare staff. This role involves critical thinking and strong communication skills.
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Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $60,259
Licensed practical nurses, or LPNs, provide basic patient care. They work in hospitals, nursing homes, and outpatient facilities. LPNs monitor patient health and assist doctors and registered nurses. This job is a great entry point into healthcare.
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General Manager
Average Salary: $52,493
General managers oversee business operations in retail, hospitality, or food service. They manage staff, handle budgets, and ensure smooth operations. Companies need dedicated leaders who can drive success and customer satisfaction.
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Maintenance Technician
Average Salary: $48,088
Maintenance technicians ensure buildings and equipment are in good condition. They work in various settings, from schools to factories. Technicians repair and maintain machinery and buildings, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
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Social Worker
Average Salary: $47,989
Social workers help individuals and families cope with challenges. They work in schools, hospitals, and social service agencies. Social workers provide support, resources, and counseling to those in need, making a positive impact.
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Medical Assistant
Average Salary: $46,080
Medical assistants support doctors and nurses in clinics and medical offices. They perform basic medical tasks and assist with patient care. This role requires attention to detail and the ability to handle administrative tasks efficiently.
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Machine Operator
Average Salary: $44,581
Machine operators run and maintain machinery in factories and production facilities. They follow instructions to produce goods. Operators must be precise and have a good understanding of machinery and safety protocols.
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Sales Associate
Average Salary: $39,962
Sales associates help customers find products they need. They work in retail stores and help customers with purchases. Associates need strong communication skills and a friendly attitude to provide excellent customer service.
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What are the best paying jobs in Kearney, NE without a degree?

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Irrigation Technician
Average Salary: $36,357
Working for local landscaping firms, this role involves installing and maintaining irrigation systems. Tasks include checking for leaks and repairing systems. Companies like ABC Landscaping provide training and tools.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $35,930
This position includes maintaining the grounds of schools, parks, and businesses. Duties involve lawn care, tree maintenance, and cleaning. Employers such as XYZ Parks and Recreation ensure you have the right equipment.
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Server
Average Salary: $35,125
Serving meals in restaurants, cafes, and banquet halls is a key duty. Servers take orders and ensure customers have what they need. Many restaurants offer tips, boosting overall pay. Local spots like DineWell Restaurant are great places to work.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $34,583
In this role, you clean hotel rooms and common areas. It involves making beds, changing linens, and maintaining cleanliness. Companies like Sunshine Hotels offer support and training. The job is steady and offers good hours.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $33,135
Working in fast-paced kitchens, line cooks prepare meals quickly. Tasks include chopping, boiling, and frying ingredients. Training and support are provided by local eateries such as Bistro on Main. This job is great for those who enjoy cooking.
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Lawn Care Technician
Average Salary: $30,879
This position requires mowing, edging, and maintaining lawns. Technicians use various tools and machines. Companies like Green Thumb Lawn Care offer equipment and training. The job is outdoors and physically active.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $30,321
In restaurants, dishwashers clean dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment. They must ensure everything is spotless. Many local restaurants offer the chance to work with experienced staff. It's a hands-on job with steady hours.
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Barista
Average Salary: $29,707
Baristas prepare coffee and other beverages in cafes. They interact with customers and take orders. Training in coffee brewing and customer service is provided by local coffee shops like Bean There Café. It's a great job for those who love coffee.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Kearney, NE?

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CHI
Average Salary: $133,511
CHI is a large non-profit healthcare organization known for its patient-focused care. It offers a wide range of health services and has a strong reputation for employee benefits and growth opportunities.
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CommonSpirit Health Mountain Region
Average Salary: $121,659
CommonSpirit Health Mountain Region provides healthcare services across multiple states. The organization values compassionate care and offers competitive salaries with a variety of career advancement options.
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Vitana Inc
Average Salary: $102,452
Vitana Inc is a company specializing in manufacturing products for the food industry. They offer stable employment and a family-oriented work environment.
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Mosaic
Average Salary: $63,581
Mosaic is a global leader in phosphate and potash crop nutrients. The company offers a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth.
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Associate Staffing
Average Salary: $54,930
Associate Staffing focuses on providing staffing solutions across various industries. They are known for flexibility and strong employee support.
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Good Samaritan
Average Salary: $54,391
Good Samaritan is a healthcare provider dedicated to serving the community. They offer a supportive work culture and various career development programs.
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Parker Hannifin
Average Salary: $53,087
Parker Hannifin is a global leader in motion and control technologies. They provide a competitive salary and a range of benefits for their employees.
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University of Nebraska System
Average Salary: $52,706
The University of Nebraska System is a leading educational institution. It offers diverse career opportunities with a focus on academic excellence and research.
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University of Nebraska at Kearney
Average Salary: $52,640
The University of Nebraska at Kearney is a public university that offers a range of educational and administrative positions. It provides a supportive academic environment.
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City of Kearney
Average Salary: $46,872
The City of Kearney is a municipal government entity providing various public services. It offers stable employment with opportunities for professional development.
How does the cost of living in Kearney, NE compare to the national average?

The cost of living in Kearney, Nebraska, provides a notably more affordable lifestyle compared to the nationwide average. With the nationwide index set at 100, Kearney scores 83 in housing, offering residents approximately 17% less than the average cost. This means that those looking for places to rent or buy can expect to spend less on their homes in Kearney. Groceries in Kearney are also cheaper, at 95 on the index, which is only 5% higher than the national average, making daily food expenses slightly more manageable.
When considering utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous expenses, Kearney continues to show affordability. Utilities stand at 97 on the index, just 3% above the average, while transportation costs are at 87, which is 13% lower. Healthcare costs in Kearney are slightly above the average at 98, only a minimal 2% increase. Miscellaneous expenses sit at 92, indicating an 8% reduction from the nationwide average. Overall, these figures show that Kearney offers a balanced cost of living with several areas below the national average, making it an attractive option for job seekers and families.



