What is the average salary in Salem, OR?
Salem, OR, offers a range of salaries across different jobs. The average yearly salary in the area is around $65,178. This average helps job seekers understand the potential earnings in the area. High-paying jobs include those in the technology and healthcare sectors. These jobs often offer competitive salaries and benefits.
A breakdown of the salary distribution shows a wide range of earnings. The highest-paid jobs make more than $170,000 a year. These jobs are often in management or specialized fields. Below that, many jobs in professional and technical fields pay between $81,227 and $119,273. This shows a strong job market for skilled workers. Lower-paid jobs, such as those in retail or hospitality, offer around $30,500 to $43,182. These figures can help job seekers set realistic salary expectations.
What are the best paying jobs in Salem, OR?

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Physician
Average Salary: $249,191
As a physician, you provide medical care and treatment. You diagnose illnesses and work in hospitals or private practices. Well-known healthcare providers in the area include Salem Health and Providence Medical Group.
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General Dentist
Average Salary: $214,425
A general dentist offers dental care, treating teeth and gum issues. They work in private practices or dental clinics. Key providers in Salem include Willamette Dental Group and Salem Dental Group.
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Primary Care Physician
Average Salary: $203,378
Primary care physicians focus on overall health. They manage patients' health and refer them to specialists. You can find work at clinics like the Oregon Health & Science University or Salem Clinic.
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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $157,862
Nurse practitioners provide primary and specialty care. They diagnose and treat health conditions. They work at healthcare facilities such as Salem Clinic and Oregon Health & Science University.
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Pharmacist
Average Salary: $152,438
Pharmacists prepare and dispense medications. They advise on their proper use. They work in places like Walgreens and CVS Pharmacy.
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Clinical Psychologist
Average Salary: $147,746
Clinical psychologists evaluate and treat mental health issues. They offer therapy and counseling. They often work at places like the Oregon Health & Science University and private practices.
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Physician Assistant
Average Salary: $139,194
Physician assistants provide healthcare services. They diagnose and treat conditions. They work in various settings such as clinics and hospitals.
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Electrician
Average Salary: $120,566
Electricians install and maintain electrical systems. They work on wiring and circuits. They often work with companies like B&K Electric and locally owned firms.
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Journeyman Electrician
Average Salary: $116,833
Journeyman electricians have experience in electrical work. They handle wiring and electrical repairs. They can find work with local contractors or companies like Hagerman Electric.
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Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $115,687
Traveling nurses work in various locations. They provide care on a temporary basis. They often work with agencies like Aya Healthcare and Aureus Medical Group.
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What are the best paying jobs in Salem, OR without a degree?

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Concrete Finisher
Average Salary: $66,100
A concrete finisher works on construction sites, smoothing and leveling concrete. The job may involve operating machinery or working by hand. Many local construction firms offer this opportunity. Candidates often find work with local contractors.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $55,917
In this role, someone oversees the day-to-day operations of a dining establishment. Duties include managing staff, ensuring customer satisfaction, and handling finances. Positions are available with various local restaurants, cafes, and bars. Experience in the food service industry is often preferred.
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Public Works Operator
Average Salary: $53,831
This job involves operating heavy machinery for public infrastructure projects. It can include operating backhoes, excavators, or similar equipment. It's a good fit for those who enjoy working outdoors and are mechanically inclined. Local government agencies often post openings for these roles.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $40,072
Housekeeping staff ensure cleanliness and order in hotels, motels, and other accommodations. They clean rooms, change linens, and often handle laundry duties. Many hospitality businesses in the area offer these positions. It's a job that values attention to detail and a strong work ethic.
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Landscaper
Average Salary: $39,407
Landscapers work outdoors, maintaining and beautifying properties. They may plant flowers, trim trees, and mow lawns. This role suits those who enjoy working outside and have a knack for gardening. Many landscape companies in the region hire for this role.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $39,246
Groundskeepers maintain the grounds of commercial and public properties. They may cut grass, prune trees, and ensure the property looks neat. Many local parks, schools, and businesses offer positions. Physical fitness and outdoor experience are key to this job.
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Sewing Machine Operator
Average Salary: $38,000
Sewing machine operators work in factories or custom clothing shops, using sewing equipment to create garments. This job requires precision and attention to detail. Opportunities are available with textile companies and fashion firms. Experience with sewing machines is often necessary.
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Server Assistant
Average Salary: $35,511
Server assistants help servers in dining establishments by taking orders and serving food and drinks. They work in busy environments and need to be quick and efficient. Many local restaurants and cafes have openings. It's a role that thrives on teamwork and customer service skills.
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Server
Average Salary: $35,465
Servers work in the food service industry, taking orders and serving food to customers. They must be friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. Positions are available with various dining establishments, including restaurants and cafes. Experience in customer service is a plus.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $34,520
Line cooks work in fast-paced kitchen environments, preparing ingredients and cooking dishes. They often work under pressure and must follow recipes precisely. Opportunities exist with many local restaurants and eateries. Culinary experience and fast-paced work are essential.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Salem, OR?

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Creative Electric
Average Salary: $142,510
Creative Electric is a leader in electrical solutions. They provide innovative and reliable services to a wide range of clients.
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Deloitte
Average Salary: $123,344
Deloitte is a global leader in technology, consulting, and financial services. They offer diverse opportunities to their employees.
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Supplemental Health Care
Average Salary: $110,356
Supplemental Health Care focuses on providing top-quality healthcare staffing services. They support healthcare professionals in various settings.
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Amedisys
Average Salary: $103,689
Amedisys is a home health and hospice care provider. They aim to offer compassionate care to patients in the comfort of their homes.
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CVS Health
Average Salary: $103,115
CVS Health is a leading healthcare company. They provide health services, insurance, and pharmacy solutions to millions of people.
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The Stepping Stones Group
Average Salary: $101,823
The Stepping Stones Group offers staffing and recruiting services. They connect qualified professionals with top employers.
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Arrow Dental
Average Salary: $98,009
Arrow Dental provides comprehensive dental care solutions. They focus on quality and patient satisfaction.
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Oregon Health Authority
Average Salary: $92,253
Oregon Health Authority oversees healthcare policy in Oregon. They aim to improve the health of all Oregonians.
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ProCare Therapy
Average Salary: $91,588
ProCare Therapy provides physical and occupational therapy services. They work to help patients regain their independence and improve their quality of life.
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Department of Administrative Services
Average Salary: $89,849
The Department of Administrative Services supports state government operations. They focus on efficiency and effectiveness in delivering public services.
How does the cost of living in Salem, OR compare to the national average?

Salem, Oregon, offers a cost of living that is generally comparable to the nationwide average. For instance, housing costs in Salem are slightly lower, sitting at 95 on the index scale. This represents a 5% decrease from the national average of 100. Therefore, those considering relocation might find that their housing expenses are somewhat lower in Salem than in many other areas across the country.
Salem's other expenses also align closely with the national figures. Groceries are only 2% below the average, while utilities are slightly above, at 102. This small increase suggests minimal extra costs for essential services. Transportation costs also mirror the nationwide average with a minor decrease of 3%, making it easy for residents to navigate daily commutes. Healthcare costs remain consistent with the national average at 100, ensuring no unexpected expenses in this critical area. Additionally, miscellaneous costs are at 99, very close to the national standard, providing overall balance in spending. Overall, Salem presents an attractive cost of living for those looking to balance quality of life with affordability.



