Hastings vs Lincoln: Phlebotomist Salary (2026)
Compare phlebotomist salaries between Hastings, NE and Lincoln, NE. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Hastings, NE | Lincoln, NE |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $42,189▲ | $40,845 |
| Hourly Rate | $20.28▲ | $19.64 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $33,229 | $36,530▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $34,978 | $38,787▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $44,505 | $47,334▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $52,152▲ | $50,385 |
| Total Employed | 5 | 240▲ |
Verdict
Hastings, NE offers better overall compensation for phlebotomists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Lincoln.
The salary gap between Hastings and Lincoln is $1,344 (3.29%). Hastings's median is -10.73% compared to the US national median of $47,261.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Hastings spans $18,923,Lincoln spans $13,855. Hastings 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, Hastings ($46,108 effective) pays 3.38% more than Lincoln ($44,600 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Hastings if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($42,189/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($52,152)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $46,108)
- ✓You prefer the Nebraska area and lifestyle
Choose Lincoln if…
- ✓Larger job market (240 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Nebraska area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, phlebotomist salaries in Hastings grew 13.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 29.6% growth in Lincoln over the same period.
Hastings, NE
$35,708 (2024) → $40,376 (2025)
Lincoln, NE
$30,170 (2019) → $39,090 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Hastings, NE
Lincoln, NE
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays phlebotomists more: Hastings or Lincoln?
What is the hourly rate difference between Hastings and Lincoln?
Should I relocate from Hastings to Lincoln as a phlebotomist?
What do entry-level phlebotomists earn in Hastings vs Lincoln?
Written by Aisha Patel, MLT
Career Analyst
Aisha has over 10 years of experience in clinical laboratory technology. She specializes in blood collection and processing. She works in a large urban hospital.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.49% 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 Aisha Patel, MLT, a licensed phlebotomist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov