Grand Island vs Scottsbluff: Elementary School Teacher Salary (2026)
Compare elementary school teacher salaries between Grand Island, NE and Scottsbluff, NE. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Grand Island, NE | Scottsbluff, NE |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $65,162▲ | $56,722 |
| Hourly Rate | $31.32▲ | $27.27 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $40,947 | $43,306▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $50,631 | $54,444▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $77,694▲ | $69,228 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $82,945 | $85,292▲ |
| Total Employed | 360▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Grand Island, NE offers better overall compensation for elementary school teachers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Scottsbluff.
The salary gap between Grand Island and Scottsbluff is $8,440 (14.88%). 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 Grand Island spans $41,998,Scottsbluff spans $41,986. Grand Island 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, Grand Island ($75,195 effective) pays 21.30% more than Scottsbluff ($61,991 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
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
Choose Scottsbluff if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($85,292)
- ✓You prefer the Nebraska area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, elementary school teacher salaries in Grand Island grew -0.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 3.2% growth in Scottsbluff over the same period.
Grand Island, NE
$64,790 (2019) → $64,530 (2025)
Scottsbluff, NE
$54,442 (2024) → $56,172 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Grand Island, NE
Scottsbluff, NE
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays elementary school teachers more: Grand Island or Scottsbluff?
What is the hourly rate difference between Grand Island and Scottsbluff?
Should I relocate from Grand Island to Scottsbluff as a elementary school teacher?
What do entry-level elementary school teachers earn in Grand Island vs Scottsbluff?
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