Columbus vs Grand Island: Elementary School Teacher Salary (2026)
Compare elementary school teacher salaries between Columbus, NE and Grand Island, NE. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbus, NE | Grand Island, NE |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $55,194 | $65,162▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $26.54 | $31.32▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $45,964▲ | $40,947 |
| 25th Percentile | $52,343▲ | $50,631 |
| 75th Percentile | $66,848 | $77,694▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $85,550▲ | $82,945 |
| Total Employed | 4 | 360▲ |
Verdict
Grand Island, NE offers better overall compensation for elementary school teachers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Columbus.
The salary gap between Columbus and Grand Island is $9,968 (18.06%). Grand Island's median is +0.87% compared to the US national median of $64,597.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbus spans $39,586,Grand Island spans $41,998. Grand Island has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced elementary school teachers.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Grand Island ($75,195 effective) pays 24.66% more than Columbus ($60,321 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($85,550)
- ✓You prefer the Nebraska area and lifestyle
Choose Grand Island if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($65,162/year)
- ✓Larger job market (360 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $75,195)
- ✓You prefer the Nebraska area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, elementary school teacher salaries in Columbus grew 3.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -0.4% growth in Grand Island over the same period.
Columbus, NE
$52,974 (2024) → $54,658 (2025)
Grand Island, NE
$64,790 (2019) → $64,530 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbus, NE
Grand Island, NE
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays elementary school teachers more: Columbus or Grand Island?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbus and Grand Island?
Should I relocate from Columbus to Grand Island as a elementary school teacher?
What do entry-level elementary school teachers earn in Columbus vs Grand Island?
Written by Jordan Lee, M.Ed.
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has over 10 years of experience in elementary education. They focus on curriculum development and teaching methodologies. Their experience includes working in public schools.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 0.98% 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 Jordan Lee, M.Ed., a licensed elementary school teacher with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov