Overview Salaries

Salaries in Salem, MA

Updated on Mar 10, 2026
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Salary

What is the average salary in Salem, MA?

The average salary in Salem, MA is $64,737 per year.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Salem, MA, showing an average salary of $64,737 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Salem, MA, showing an average salary of $5,395 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Salem, MA, showing an average salary of $1,245 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Salem, MA, showing an average salary of $31 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Salem, MA offers a range of salary opportunities across various industries. Job seekers can expect to find competitive wages, with the average yearly salary around $64,737. This provides a solid foundation for those looking to make their career home in the city.

Job categories with notable salary ranges include:

  • Education: Up to $165,000 per year
  • Healthcare: Up to $153,000 per year
  • Professional Services: Up to $141,000 per year
  • Retail and Food Services: Up to $128,000 per year
  • Manufacturing: Up to $116,000 per year

These figures highlight the potential for both growth and stability in many sectors within Salem.

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What are the best paying jobs in Salem, MA?

Job seekers in Salem, MA, have access to many high-paying career opportunities. Leading the list are roles such as Technician, Traveling Nurse, and Ultrasound Technologist, all offering impressive salaries. These positions provide stability and good pay, making them attractive options for those seeking professional growth and financial security. Apart from these top-tier roles, careers such as Registered Nurse, Behavior Analyst, and General Manager also offer competitive compensation. Each of these positions requires specific skills and qualifications, but they reward hard work with substantial income. This variety of options means job seekers can find a career that not only pays well but also aligns with their skills and interests.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Salem, MA, highlighting Technician with the highest at $113,763 and Server with the lowest at $44,383.

  1. Technician
    Average Salary: $113,763
    Technicians in Salem work on maintaining and repairing various systems. They might find employment with local tech firms and healthcare institutions. Their expertise ensures the smooth operation of technology in the community.
    Find Technician jobs in Salem, MA


  2. Traveling Nurse
    Average Salary: $113,444
    Traveling nurses provide care at multiple locations, often assisting hospitals. This position allows for flexibility and the chance to gain experience in different settings. Salem offers a variety of healthcare facilities for nurses to explore.
    Find Traveling Nurse jobs in Salem, MA


  3. Ultrasound Technologist
    Average Salary: $111,932
    Ultrasound technologists operate imaging equipment to help diagnose conditions. They work in clinics and hospitals, offering critical insights into patient health. Their role is vital in ensuring accurate and timely medical care.
    Find Ultrasound Technologist jobs in Salem, MA


  4. Registered Nurse
    Average Salary: $106,875
    Registered nurses provide essential patient care and support in healthcare facilities. They work in hospitals and clinics, playing a crucial role in patient recovery and treatment. Salem's healthcare system offers many opportunities for skilled nurses.
    Find Registered Nurse jobs in Salem, MA


  5. Behavior Analyst
    Average Salary: $103,105
    Behavior analysts develop and implement strategies to improve behaviors. They often work with schools and clinics, helping individuals reach their full potential. Their work makes a significant impact on people's lives in Salem.
    Find Behavior Analyst jobs in Salem, MA


  6. General Manager
    Average Salary: $70,451
    General managers oversee daily operations in various businesses. They manage staff and ensure smooth business functioning. Salem has many retail and service businesses that need strong leaders like them.
    Find General Manager jobs in Salem, MA


  7. High School Teacher
    Average Salary: $66,092
    High school teachers educate students and shape their futures. They work in schools, teaching a variety of subjects. Their dedication helps students achieve academic success and personal growth.
    Find High School Teacher jobs in Salem, MA


  8. Maintenance Technician
    Average Salary: $52,854
    Maintenance technicians keep buildings and equipment in good working order. They handle repairs and maintenance tasks. They ensure that facilities run smoothly and safely, crucial for Salem's infrastructure.
    Find Maintenance Technician jobs in Salem, MA


  9. Registered Behavior Technician
    Average Salary: $51,393
    Registered behavior technicians implement behavior plans under the supervision of analysts. They work in schools and clinics, supporting individuals with developmental needs. Their compassionate care aids in meaningful progress.
    Find Registered Behavior Technician jobs in Salem, MA


  10. Server
    Average Salary: $44,383
    Servers provide excellent dining experiences in restaurants. They interact with customers and ensure their satisfaction. Salem offers many dining options where they can excel in customer service.
    Find Server jobs in Salem, MA

What are the best paying jobs in Salem, MA without a degree?

Salem, MA offers several high-paying jobs that do not require a degree. Among the best are server roles, with an average salary of $44,383. These positions often include opportunities for tips, which can boost earnings. Line cooks also earn well, averaging $39,980 per year. Other top-paying jobs without a degree include housekeeping, barista, and dishwasher roles. Housekeeping staff can expect to earn about $38,163 annually, while baristas average around $36,258. Dishwashers make $33,804 on average. These roles offer competitive pay and a chance to gain valuable experience.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Salem, MA without a degree, highlighting Server with the highest at $44,383 and Dishwasher with the lowest at $33,804.

  1. Server
    Average Salary: $44,383
    Serving food and drinks to customers. Interacting with guests and taking orders. Working at places like restaurants and cafes.
    Find Server jobs in Salem, MA


  2. Line Cook
    Average Salary: $39,980
    Prepping ingredients and cooking food. Working in fast-paced environments. Cooking for chains and local spots.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Salem, MA


  3. Housekeeping
    Average Salary: $38,163
    Cleaning guest rooms and common areas. Ensuring a clean and safe environment. Working in hotels and motels.
    Find Housekeeping jobs in Salem, MA


  4. Barista
    Average Salary: $36,258
    Making coffee and other drinks. Serving customers at cafes. Working at popular coffee shops.
    Find Barista jobs in Salem, MA


  5. Dishwasher
    Average Salary: $33,804
    Washing dishes and kitchen tools. Keeping the kitchen area clean. Working in various dining establishments.
    Find Dishwasher jobs in Salem, MA

Which companies offer the top salaries in Salem, MA?

Job seekers in Salem, MA, have several companies to consider for better pay. Nomad Health leads with the highest average salary at $122,867, followed closely by OneStaff Medical at $115,435. These figures highlight top employers in the area for those seeking competitive compensation. In Salem, MA, healthcare and staffing companies generally offer the best salaries. For example, Nomad Health and OneStaff Medical provide average salaries of $122,867 and $115,435, respectively. Other notable employers include FUSION Medical Staffing and Renewal Rehab, both offering salaries well above the local average. These numbers can help job seekers target companies that offer the highest pay in the area.
Graph displaying company salaries in Salem, MA, highlighting Nomad Health with the highest at $122,867 and Village Tavern with the lowest at $57,917.

  1. Nomad Health
    Average Salary: $122,867
    Nomad Health is a healthcare staffing company that provides flexible job opportunities for healthcare professionals.


  2. OneStaff Medical
    Average Salary: $115,435
    OneStaff Medical offers travel and permanent staffing services for healthcare professionals across the United States.


  3. FUSION Medical Staffing
    Average Salary: $108,340
    FUSION Medical Staffing is a leading provider of healthcare staffing solutions for clients and professionals.


  4. Renewal Rehab
    Average Salary: $86,549
    Renewal Rehab provides rehabilitation services and supports individuals in their recovery and well-being.


  5. North Shore Medical Center
    Average Salary: $84,499
    North Shore Medical Center offers a range of medical services and is part of a larger healthcare network.


  6. Mass General Brigham
    Average Salary: $80,907
    Mass General Brigham is a large healthcare system providing various medical services and opportunities for healthcare professionals.


  7. Commonwealth of Massachusetts
    Average Salary: $73,881
    The Commonwealth of Massachusetts offers a variety of job opportunities in public service for state employees.


  8. Salem Hospital
    Average Salary: $70,627
    Salem Hospital is a healthcare facility providing medical services to the community of Salem.


  9. SALEM PUBLIC SCHOOLS
    Average Salary: $62,945
    SALEM PUBLIC SCHOOLS provides educational services and job opportunities for educators and school staff.


  10. Village Tavern
    Average Salary: $57,917
    Village Tavern is a popular dining establishment in Salem, offering various positions in the restaurant industry.

How does the cost of living in Salem, MA compare to the national average?

Salem, MA, shows a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average of 100. The city's housing costs are 28% above the average, with an index of 128. Additionally, groceries cost 15% more in Salem than the national average, with an index of 115. Overall, Salem's cost of living index stands at 114, reflecting an increase of 14% over the nationwide average. This higher cost index affects various aspects of life, from housing to groceries, making Salem a more expensive place to live.
Cost of living comparison graph for Salem, MA vs. Nationwide: housing 28% higher, groceries 15% higher, utilities 4% higher, transportation 5% higher, healthcare 10% higher, miscellaneous 12% higher.

Salem, MA, exhibits a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, particularly in the housing sector. With a housing index of 128, living costs in Salem are 28% higher than the national average. Job seekers should be aware that finding affordable housing may require some adjustments to their budget.


In Salem, other expenses also tend to surpass the national average. For example, groceries cost 15% more, utilities are 4% higher, and healthcare services are 10% more expensive. Although transportation and miscellaneous expenses remain relatively close to the national average, these figures suggest that Salem residents will need to plan their finances accordingly to account for the overall elevated cost of living. Understanding these differences can help professionals make informed decisions about relocating or budgeting for life in Salem.

There are 527 job openings in Salem, MA, today!

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Salem, MA
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