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Public Safety · Nebraska

How to Become a Firefighters in Nebraska

Firefighters in Nebraska earn a median salary of $61,760/year, which is 4% above the national average. Nebraska has a state income tax of ~4.0%. After taxes and rent, a firefighters takes home approximately $2,687/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.

$62K
Median salary in Nebraska
+4%
vs. national average
4.0%
State income tax
1,060
Employed in Nebraska

What a firefighters can afford in Nebraska

Gross annual salary$61,760
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.0% state tax)$4,099/mo
Median 2BR rent (Nebraska)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home34.4% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$61,760/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,687/mo

Becoming a firefighters in Nebraska

1

Meet education requirements

Firefighters positions in Nebraska typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Nebraska. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

This career typically involves long-term on-the-job training in Nebraska. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Nebraska licensure or certification

Nebraska may require specific licensing or professional certification for firefighterss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Nebraska Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Nebraska

Nebraska employs 1,060 firefighters. The highest concentrations are in Lincoln and Omaha.

Firefighters salary by metro area in Nebraska

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Lincoln$66K$31.84/hr240
Omaha$62K$29.69/hr680

Firefighters salary range in Nebraska

10th percentile (entry)
$45K
25th percentile
$50K
Median (50th)
$62K
75th percentile
$66K
90th percentile (senior)
$69K
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Full firefighters salary breakdown in Nebraska
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a firefighters make in Nebraska?

The median firefighters salary in Nebraska is $61,760 per year ($29.69/hr). This is 4% above the national median of $59,530. Salaries range from $45,120 to $69,400.

What are the requirements to become a firefighters in Nebraska?

Firefighters positions in Nebraska typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Nebraska may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Nebraska licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a firefighters afford to live in Nebraska?

At the median salary of $61,760, a firefighters in Nebraska would take home approximately $4,099/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 34.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for firefighters in Nebraska?

The highest paying metro areas for firefighters in Nebraska are Lincoln ($66,220), Omaha ($61,760). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Nebraska have state income tax for firefighters?

Yes, Nebraska has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.0%. On a $61,760 salary, this means roughly $2,477/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.