Columbus vs Omaha: Actuary Salary (2026)
Compare actuary salaries between Columbus, NE and Omaha, NE. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbus, NE | Omaha, NE |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $114,629▲ | $110,558 |
| Hourly Rate | $55.11▲ | $53.16 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $77,737 | $87,400▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $90,886 | $98,370▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $143,217▲ | $142,251 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $177,675 | $185,161▲ |
| Total Employed | 4 | 140▲ |
Verdict
Columbus and Omaha are closely matched on overall actuary compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Columbus and Omaha is $4,071 (3.68%). Columbus's median is -14.56% compared to the US national median of $134,160.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbus spans $99,938,Omaha spans $97,761. Columbus has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Columbus ($125,278 effective) pays 4.15% more than Omaha ($120,288 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($114,629/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $125,278)
- ✓You prefer the Nebraska area and lifestyle
Choose Omaha if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($185,161)
- ✓Larger job market (140 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Nebraska area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, actuary salaries in Columbus grew 10.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 14.3% growth in Omaha over the same period.
Columbus, NE
$100,822 (2024) → $111,075 (2025)
Omaha, NE
$93,720 (2019) → $107,130 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbus, NE
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays actuarys more: Columbus or Omaha?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbus and Omaha?
Should I relocate from Columbus to Omaha as a actuary?
What do entry-level actuarys earn in Columbus vs Omaha?
Written by Maria Chen, FSA, MAAA
Career Analyst
Maria has 10 years of experience in life insurance. She specializes in risk assessment and pricing strategies.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.20% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Maria Chen, FSA, MAAA, a licensed actuary with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov