Overview Salaries

Salaries in Salem, OR

Updated on Aug 21, 2026
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Salary

What is the average salary in Salem, OR?

The average salary in Salem, OR is $65,809 per year.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Salem, OR, showing an average salary of $65,809 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Salem, OR, showing an average salary of $5,484 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Salem, OR, showing an average salary of $1,266 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Salem, OR, showing an average salary of $32 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Job seekers in Salem, OR, can look forward to a range of salary opportunities across different professions. The average yearly salary in Salem stands at $65,809, making it a competitive place for employment. This average salary reflects the diverse job market, where skilled workers in various industries can find rewarding positions.


The salary distribution in Salem shows a spread of income levels, with 26.10% earning around $30,500 per year, while the highest 1.05% earn approximately $166,310 annually. This wide range means there are many opportunities for individuals at different stages of their careers. Key industries offering these salaries include healthcare, retail, and education, among others. This diversity in earnings highlights Salem's potential for job seekers to find roles that match their skills and experience.

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What are the best paying jobs in Salem, OR?

Salem, OR, offers several opportunities for job seekers looking for well-paying positions. Among the top jobs, healthcare roles stand out, with Physicians earning the highest average salary at $238,936. Other healthcare professions like General Dentists and Primary Care Physicians also bring strong salaries. In addition, tech and education sectors are promising, with roles such as Software Engineer and School Psychologist providing competitive pay. Exploring healthcare careers, job seekers can find rewarding positions like Nurse Practitioners and Pharmacists, with average salaries of $159,586 and $159,023, respectively. For those interested in tech, becoming a Software Engineer offers an average salary of $108,165. These roles not only provide good pay but also offer job stability and growth opportunities. With a mix of healthcare and tech jobs, Salem provides a variety of paths for those seeking high-paying careers.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Salem, OR, highlighting Physician with the highest at $238,936 and Software Engineer with the lowest at $108,165.

  1. Physician
    Average Salary: $238,936
    Physicians diagnose and treat health issues. They work in hospitals and clinics. Many doctors have private practices.
    Find Physician jobs in Salem, OR


  2. General Dentist
    Average Salary: $227,679
    General dentists provide oral care. They work in dental offices. They also offer cleanings, fillings, and exams.
    Find General Dentist jobs in Salem, OR


  3. Primary Care Physician
    Average Salary: $198,309
    Primary care physicians offer general health services. They see patients of all ages. They manage chronic conditions and preventive care.
    Find Primary Care Physician jobs in Salem, OR


  4. Nurse Practitioner
    Average Salary: $159,586
    Nurse practitioners provide primary and specialty care. They work in clinics and hospitals. They diagnose and treat illnesses.
    Find Nurse Practitioner jobs in Salem, OR


  5. Pharmacist
    Average Salary: $159,023
    Pharmacists prepare and dispense medications. They work in pharmacies and hospitals. They advise patients on drug use.
    Find Pharmacist jobs in Salem, OR


  6. Physician Assistant
    Average Salary: $136,775
    Physician assistants examine patients and prescribe treatments. They work in clinics and hospitals. They often assist in surgeries.
    Find Physician Assistant jobs in Salem, OR


  7. Dental Hygienist
    Average Salary: $110,678
    Dental hygienists clean teeth and educate patients. They work in dental offices. They also take X-rays and apply sealants.
    Find Dental Hygienist jobs in Salem, OR


  8. School Psychologist
    Average Salary: $108,762
    School psychologists support students’ mental health. They work in schools and educational centers. They help with behavior and learning issues.
    Find School Psychologist jobs in Salem, OR


  9. Clinical Supervisor
    Average Salary: $108,409
    Clinical supervisors manage healthcare staff. They work in hospitals and clinics. They ensure quality care and compliance with regulations.
    Find Clinical Supervisor jobs in Salem, OR


  10. Software Engineer
    Average Salary: $108,165
    Software engineers design and develop software. They work for tech companies and software firms. They create applications and systems.
    Find Software Engineer jobs in Salem, OR

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

High-paying jobs in Salem, Oregon, that do not require a degree include positions like Restaurant Manager and Public Works Operator. Both offer competitive salaries, making them attractive options for job seekers without a college education. For example, a Restaurant Manager can earn up to $57,779 annually, while a Public Works Operator earns around $54,592 each year. These roles provide a good income and valuable work experience. Additionally, many other positions offer solid pay without needing a degree. For instance, a Groundskeeper earns up to $41,138, and a Landscaper can make around $40,254. These jobs give you the chance to earn well while gaining important skills in your field. Such roles are excellent for those looking for a stable income with room to grow.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Salem, OR without a degree, highlighting Restaurant Manager with the highest at $57,779 and Server with the lowest at $33,246.

  1. Restaurant Manager
    Average Salary: $57,779
    Oversee daily operations. Manage staff and ensure customer satisfaction. Work in popular dining spots.
    Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Salem, OR


  2. Public Works Operator
    Average Salary: $54,592
    Operate heavy machinery. Maintain public infrastructure. Work for city departments.
    Find Public Works Operator jobs in Salem, OR


  3. Housekeeping
    Average Salary: $44,262
    Clean and maintain rooms. Follow safety and sanitation protocols. Work in hotels and motels.
    Find Housekeeping jobs in Salem, OR


  4. Groundskeeper
    Average Salary: $41,138
    Maintain grounds and facilities. Use hand tools and power equipment. Work in parks and residential areas.
    Find Groundskeeper jobs in Salem, OR


  5. Landscaper
    Average Salary: $40,254
    Design and maintain outdoor spaces. Plant flowers, shrubs, and trees. Work for landscaping companies.
    Find Landscaper jobs in Salem, OR


  6. Recreation Assistant
    Average Salary: $36,269
    Plan and lead activities. Supervise children and adults. Work in community centers and parks.
    Find Recreation Assistant jobs in Salem, OR


  7. Food Service Aide
    Average Salary: $36,021
    Prepare and serve food. Clean kitchen areas. Work in cafeterias and schools.
    Find Food Service Aide jobs in Salem, OR


  8. Line Cook
    Average Salary: $35,340
    Prepare meals in a fast-paced environment. Follow recipes and food safety guidelines. Work in restaurants.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Salem, OR


  9. Server Assistant
    Average Salary: $34,345
    Help servers take orders and serve food. Clean tables and reset dining areas. Work in busy dining establishments.
    Find Server Assistant jobs in Salem, OR


  10. Server
    Average Salary: $33,246
    Take customer orders and serve food and drinks. Provide excellent customer service. Work in a variety of dining settings.
    Find Server jobs in Salem, OR

Which companies offer the top salaries in Salem, OR?

Job seekers in Salem, OR, looking for high-paying opportunities should consider companies like Deloitte, Supplemental Health Care, and CVS Health. Deloitte leads with an average salary of $137,078, offering a top-tier compensation package. Following closely are Supplemental Health Care and CVS Health, which provide average salaries of $108,364 and $107,945, respectively, making them attractive choices for those seeking competitive wages in Salem. Additionally, Optum, Amedisys, and Arrow Dental provide salaries above $106,000, making them solid options for those seeking a lucrative position. Other notable employers include The Stepping Stones Group, the Department of Administrative Services, and Kaiser Permanente, which all offer average salaries over $100,000. These companies provide rewarding career opportunities for professionals in Salem.
Graph displaying company salaries in Salem, OR, highlighting Deloitte with the highest at $137,078 and United States Department of Justice with the lowest at $91,077.

  1. Deloitte
    Average Salary: $137,078
    Deloitte is a leading company in professional services. They offer a variety of roles in audit, consulting, financial advisory, and tax services.


  2. Supplemental Health Care
    Average Salary: $108,364
    This company specializes in healthcare staffing. They provide short- and long-term staffing solutions for healthcare facilities.


  3. CVS Health
    Average Salary: $107,945
    CVS Health is a pharmacy and health services company. They offer retail pharmacy, healthcare benefits, and other health-related services.


  4. Optum
    Average Salary: $106,337
    Optum is a health services company. They focus on health technology and pharmacy benefits management services.


  5. Amedisys
    Average Salary: $106,239
    Amedisys is a home health services company. They provide skilled nursing, therapy, and home health aides.


  6. Arrow Dental
    Average Salary: $106,122
    Arrow Dental focuses on dental products and services. They offer a range of dental supplies and equipment.


  7. The Stepping Stones Group
    Average Salary: $103,020
    The Stepping Stones Group provides healthcare staffing services. They offer positions in nursing, allied health, and therapy.


  8. Department of Administrative Services
    Average Salary: $91,949
    This government department manages administrative services. They support various state agencies with HR, payroll, and other services.


  9. Kaiser Permanente
    Average Salary: $91,819
    Kaiser Permanente is a healthcare organization. They offer integrated managed care for members through a network of physicians and hospitals.


  10. United States Department of Justice
    Average Salary: $91,077
    The Department of Justice is responsible for federal law enforcement. They work to enforce federal laws and administer justice.

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

Salem, OR, shows a cost of living index that is slightly below the nationwide average of 100. Housing costs in Salem are about 3% lower, while groceries and healthcare costs are slightly higher at 2% and 6%, respectively. Utilities and transportation hover around the national average, with utilities being 5% lower and transportation at par. Overall, Salem presents a balanced mix where some expenses are lower, and others are slightly higher than the national average. This provides an attractive option for individuals considering relocation for work or lifestyle changes. Salem’s cost of living can be a valuable consideration for professional job seekers looking for affordability.
Cost of living comparison graph for Salem, OR vs. Nationwide: housing 3% lower, groceries 2% higher, utilities 5% lower, transportation 1% higher, healthcare 6% higher, miscellaneous 1% lower.

Salem, Oregon, has a cost of living index that is close to the nationwide average. According to the data, the overall cost of living index in Salem is 99. This means that, generally, the cost of living in Salem is about the same as in other parts of the country. More specifically, Salem's housing costs are slightly below average at 97, making it a bit cheaper to find a place to live.


Groceries and healthcare, however, are slightly above the national average. Salem's grocery index stands at 102, indicating a 2% increase in grocery costs compared to the nationwide average. Healthcare costs are also higher, with an index of 106, which means they are about 6% more expensive. Utilities, transportation, and miscellaneous costs are a bit lower, at 95, 101, and 99, respectively. This mix of costs shows that while some areas are cheaper, others are slightly more expensive than the national average.

There are 1,625 job openings in Salem, OR, today!

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Discover what it's like to work in Salem, OR. Learn if you need a car, explore popular employers, the job market, and the best neighborhoods to live in.
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Salem, OR
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