What is the average salary in Salem, OR?
Salem, Oregon, provides a competitive salary landscape for job seekers. On average, a professional in Salem earns about $65,226 per year. This average covers many industries, ensuring that there are diverse opportunities.
The salary distribution in Salem ranges from lower to higher earnings, with different sectors offering various pay grades. For instance, those in the lowest-paying industries earn around $30,414 per year, while the highest-paying ones can make over $170,000 annually. This range shows that with the right skills and experience, there are opportunities to advance and increase earnings in Salem.
What are the best paying jobs in Salem, OR?

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Physician
Average Salary: $248,053
This role involves diagnosing and treating patients. Physicians work at hospitals and clinics in the area. They often collaborate with a team of healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive patient care.
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General Dentist
Average Salary: $219,823
This profession focuses on dental care. General dentists perform cleanings, fillings, and extractions. They often work in private practices or dental clinics, serving patients of all ages.
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Primary Care Physician
Average Salary: $202,946
This position involves providing ongoing care for patients. Primary care physicians offer check-ups, manage chronic conditions, and refer patients to specialists. They work in clinics or private practices, ensuring patients receive continuous care.
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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $157,788
This role includes advanced patient care. Nurse practitioners conduct physical exams, diagnose illnesses, and prescribe treatments. They often work in hospitals, clinics, or private practices, supporting the healthcare team.
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Pharmacist
Average Salary: $154,302
This position involves dispensing medications. Pharmacists ensure patients understand how to use their medicines safely. They work in pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics, providing essential healthcare services.
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Clinical Psychologist
Average Salary: $149,520
This role includes assessing and treating mental health conditions. Clinical psychologists perform evaluations and provide therapy. They often work in private practices, hospitals, or mental health clinics, helping patients improve their mental well-being.
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Physician Assistant
Average Salary: $139,185
This position involves assisting in patient care. Physician assistants perform exams, diagnose conditions, and prescribe treatments. They often work alongside physicians in hospitals, clinics, or private practices, providing essential medical services.
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Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $117,378
This role includes providing care in various locations. Traveling nurses work short-term assignments in different hospitals or clinics. They bring their skills to new areas, supporting healthcare teams and patient care.
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Electrician
Average Salary: $115,186
This position involves installing and maintaining electrical systems. Electricians work on residential, commercial, and industrial projects. They ensure safety and efficiency in electrical systems, often collaborating with other tradespeople.
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Journeyman Electrician
Average Salary: $115,044
This role includes advanced electrical work. Journeyman electricians install, repair, and maintain electrical systems. They often work on complex projects, collaborating with other professionals to ensure quality and safety.
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What are the best paying jobs in Salem, OR without a degree?

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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $57,540
Manage daily operations of restaurants. Oversee staff, ensure customer satisfaction, and handle budgets. Popular spots like The Capital Grill need managers.
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Public Works Operator
Average Salary: $53,831
Operate equipment to maintain city infrastructure. Drive trucks and machinery. This job is crucial for keeping roads and public spaces clean. Local government hires for this role.
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Loader Operator
Average Salary: $45,741
Load and unload materials from trucks. Drive forklifts and cranes. This job is common in warehouses and distribution centers. Companies like Costco look for skilled operators.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $40,859
Clean and maintain hotel rooms. Ensure guests have a comfortable stay. This role is essential in hotels like the Hampton Inn. It involves making beds and tidying up spaces.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $40,777
Maintain parks and public spaces. Mow lawns and plant flowers. This job is vital for keeping the community green and beautiful. Local parks departments hire for this.
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Landscaper
Average Salary: $39,389
Design and maintain outdoor spaces. Install plants and hardscapes. This role is crucial for creating beautiful landscapes. Companies like TruGreen look for skilled landscapers.
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Recreation Assistant
Average Salary: $36,268
Assist in recreational programs for youth and adults. Plan activities and events. This job is important for community engagement. Parks and recreation departments often hire for this.
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Server Assistant
Average Salary: $36,136
Support servers in restaurants. Take orders and serve food. This job helps keep the dining experience smooth. Local diners and cafes need assistants.
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Server
Average Salary: $34,790
Serve food and drinks to customers. Take orders and ensure satisfaction. This role is key in the service industry. Restaurants like Chili’s look for friendly servers.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $34,692
Prepare ingredients and cook dishes. Work quickly in a fast-paced environment. This job is essential in busy kitchens. Local restaurants need skilled line cooks.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Salem, OR?

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Creative Electric
Average Salary: $143,000
Creative Electric is a well-known company that offers electric services. They focus on delivering quality work and are recognized for their skilled employees.
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Deloitte
Average Salary: $123,577
Deloitte is a leading firm that provides audit and assurance, consulting, financial advisory, and tax services. Their work impacts many industries.
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Supplemental Health Care
Average Salary: $110,155
Supplemental Health Care offers staffing and workforce solutions. They focus on providing skilled healthcare professionals to various facilities.
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CVS Health
Average Salary: $107,240
CVS Health is a health services company. They run pharmacies, health insurance, and other medical services across the nation.
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Amedisys
Average Salary: $103,279
Amedisys is a home health agency. They offer various services, including nursing, therapy, and home health aide support.
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The Stepping Stones Group
Average Salary: $102,308
The Stepping Stones Group specializes in healthcare staffing. They connect healthcare professionals with various facilities to meet staffing needs.
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Arrow Dental
Average Salary: $97,504
Arrow Dental offers dental services. They focus on providing quality dental care and are known for their skilled professionals.
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Oregon Health Authority
Average Salary: $92,568
Oregon Health Authority is a state agency. They manage health policies and programs, ensuring quality healthcare for residents.
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ProCare Therapy
Average Salary: $91,745
ProCare Therapy offers rehabilitation services. They focus on providing physical, occupational, and speech therapy to patients.
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Ryder System
Average Salary: $90,403
Ryder System provides logistics and transportation services. They offer fleet management, supply chain solutions, and more.
How does the cost of living in Salem, OR compare to the national average?

Salem, Oregon, offers a distinct cost of living when compared to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing in Salem presents a higher cost, with an index of 114, meaning expenses in this area are 14% higher than the average. This increase could affect those looking to rent or buy homes in the area. In contrast, groceries in Salem are more affordable, with an index of 96, showing a 4% reduction from the national average.
Transportation costs in Salem also lean slightly below the nationwide average, with an index of 94, representing a 6% decrease. This suggests that commuting and other transportation-related expenses may be more budget-friendly for residents. Healthcare costs in Salem follow closely behind the national average, with an index of 92, indicating a minor 8% reduction. The miscellaneous category, which includes items like entertainment and personal care, holds an index of 98, showing just a 2% increase over the average. Overall, Salem offers a mix of higher and lower costs, which can influence financial planning for potential residents.



