What is the average salary in Salem, OR?
Salem, OR, offers a range of salary opportunities across various industries. The average yearly salary in Salem is $65,146. This figure provides a good overview of the earning potential in the area. Many job seekers find that the salaries in Salem are competitive and offer a good balance between cost of living and income.
Different sectors have varying salary distributions. For example, the top 10% of earners make over $131,955 per year. The industries with the highest salaries include management, finance, and healthcare. These sectors often require specialized skills and experience, which can lead to higher earnings. Other notable industries with good salaries include education, technology, and public administration. Job seekers in Salem can explore these fields to find positions that match their skills and career goals.
What are the best paying jobs in Salem, OR?

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Physician
Average Salary: $250,671
Physicians diagnose and treat illnesses. They work in hospitals and clinics. They often collaborate with other healthcare professionals.
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General Dentist
Average Salary: $208,332
Dentists focus on oral health. They perform cleanings, fillings, and extractions. They work in private practices and dental clinics.
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Primary Care Physician
Average Salary: $195,435
Primary care physicians provide general health care. They manage chronic conditions and offer preventive care. They work in clinics and hospitals.
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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $157,397
Nurse practitioners offer advanced care. They diagnose and treat illnesses. They work in clinics and hospitals, often with physicians.
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Pharmacist
Average Salary: $150,925
Pharmacists fill prescriptions and advise patients. They work in pharmacies and hospitals. They ensure safe medication use.
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Clinical Psychologist
Average Salary: $145,989
Clinical psychologists assess mental health. They provide therapy and counseling. They work in clinics and private practices.
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Physician Assistant
Average Salary: $139,244
Physician assistants provide medical care. They work under physicians. They see patients, diagnose, and treat.
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Director of Nursing
Average Salary: $123,589
Directors of nursing manage nursing staff. They oversee patient care. They work in hospitals and long-term care facilities.
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Refrigeration Installer
Average Salary: $121,272
Refrigeration installers work on HVAC systems. They install and repair refrigeration units. They work in various settings, including commercial buildings.
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Electrician
Average Salary: $120,031
Electricians install and maintain electrical systems. They work in homes, businesses, and factories. They ensure safety and efficiency.
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What are the best paying jobs in Salem, OR without a degree?

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Concrete Finisher
Average Salary: $71,041
This job involves smoothing and finishing concrete surfaces. Workers use tools to shape and level the concrete. Companies like Salem Concrete and local construction firms offer these positions.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $54,398
Manage daily operations at a restaurant. Oversee staff, handle customer service, and ensure smooth service. Local eateries like The Old Town and Salem Brewing Company need managers.
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Public Works Operator
Average Salary: $53,831
Operate heavy machinery for city infrastructure projects. Tasks include maintaining roads and public spaces. The city's Public Works Department offers these roles.
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Landscaper
Average Salary: $39,370
Design and maintain outdoor spaces. This involves planting, trimming, and landscaping. Companies like Green Thumb Landscape and local nurseries hire landscapers.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $39,051
Maintain the grounds of parks, schools, and other public spaces. Duties include mowing, pruning, and general upkeep. The city's Parks and Recreation Department offers these jobs.
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Sewing Machine Operator
Average Salary: $38,000
Operate sewing machines to produce garments. This job requires attention to detail and precision. Local textile companies and garment factories hire operators.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $37,442
Clean and maintain rooms in hotels, motels, and other lodging facilities. This job involves tidying up and ensuring a pleasant environment. Hotels like the Hilton and local motels offer these positions.
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Server
Average Salary: $36,651
Serve food and drinks to customers in a restaurant. This role requires good communication and customer service skills. Local restaurants and cafes hire servers.
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To Go Specialist
Average Salary: $34,694
Prepare and package food for customers to take away. This job involves quick and efficient service. Fast-food chains and local restaurants offer these roles.
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Server Assistant
Average Salary: $34,610
Assist servers in a restaurant by setting up tables, clearing dishes, and helping with service. This job requires teamwork and attention to detail. Local eateries and cafes hire server assistants.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Salem, OR?

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Creative Electric
Average Salary: $141,707
Creative Electric is a leading electrical contractor in Salem. They offer a wide range of services, from design to installation. They value their employees and offer competitive salaries.
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Deloitte
Average Salary: $122,828
Deloitte is a global leader in consulting and technology. They provide top-notch services to their clients. Their employees enjoy a good work-life balance and attractive compensation packages.
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Supplemental Health Care
Average Salary: $109,914
Supplemental Health Care is a healthcare staffing company. They focus on providing quality care to patients. Their employees benefit from a supportive work environment and good salaries.
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CVS Health
Average Salary: $105,587
CVS Health is a major healthcare company. They offer a variety of services, from pharmacy to health insurance. They are known for their employee benefits and competitive pay.
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The Stepping Stones Group
Average Salary: $101,753
The Stepping Stones Group is a staffing and recruiting firm. They help people find jobs in various fields. They offer good salaries and a supportive work environment.
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Amedisys
Average Salary: $101,670
Amedisys is a home health care provider. They offer personalized care to patients. Their employees enjoy good salaries and a positive work culture.
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Arrow Dental
Average Salary: $95,468
Arrow Dental is a dental service organization. They provide quality dental care. Their employees benefit from a good salary and a supportive work environment.
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Concrete Strategies
Average Salary: $94,843
Concrete Strategies is a consulting firm. They offer services in management and technology. Their employees enjoy good salaries and a collaborative work environment.
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ProCare Therapy
Average Salary: $90,162
ProCare Therapy is a healthcare staffing company. They focus on providing therapy services. Their employees benefit from good salaries and a supportive work environment.
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Oregon Health Authority
Average Salary: $89,298
Oregon Health Authority is a state agency. They focus on public health. Their employees enjoy good salaries and a positive work environment.
How does the cost of living in Salem, OR compare to the national average?

Salem, Oregon, has a cost of living index that varies across different categories when compared to the nationwide average. Housing costs in Salem stand at 112, which is 12% higher than the national average. This means that expenses related to rent or mortgage payments are significantly higher for residents in Salem. Groceries, however, are slightly below the national average, with an index of 97, indicating a 3% lower cost for food items.
Transportation costs in Salem are also slightly above the national average, with an index of 105. This represents a 5% increase in expenses related to commuting and vehicle maintenance. Utilities and healthcare costs are close to the average, with indices of 98 and 100, respectively. Miscellaneous expenses, such as entertainment and personal care, are at 102, showing a modest 2% increase. Overall, Salem's cost of living is slightly higher than the national average, particularly in housing and transportation.