What is the average salary in Salem, OR?
Salem, OR, offers a variety of job opportunities with competitive salaries. The average yearly salary in Salem is $65,309. This average reflects the diverse range of industries present in the area, from healthcare to technology. Many job seekers find that the cost of living in Salem is reasonable, making these salaries quite attractive.
The salary distribution in Salem shows a broad range of earnings. The most common salaries fall between $30,500 and $170,000. Here are some of the most common salary ranges:
- 29.52% earn between $30,500 and $43,182
- 19.50% earn between $43,182 and $55,864
- 11.40% earn between $55,864 and $68,545
- 8.69% earn between $68,545 and $81,227
- 7.74% earn between $81,227 and $93,909
- 6.87% earn between $93,909 and $106,591
- 4.23% earn between $106,591 and $119,273
- 2.94% earn between $119,273 and $131,955
- 2.06% earn between $131,955 and $144,636
- 1.27% earn between $144,636 and $157,318
- 0.78% earn between $157,318 and $170,000
What are the best paying jobs in Salem, OR?

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Physician
Average Salary: $250,383
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: $211,102
Dentists focus on oral health. They provide cleanings, fillings, and other treatments. They work in private practices and clinics.
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Primary Care Physician
Average Salary: $199,354
Primary care physicians provide general medical care. They manage chronic conditions and offer preventive services. They work in clinics and hospitals.
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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $157,673
Nurse practitioners offer primary and specialty care. They diagnose and treat illnesses. They work in clinics and hospitals.
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Pharmacist
Average Salary: $152,043
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: $144,166
Clinical psychologists provide therapy. They assess and treat mental health issues. They work in clinics and hospitals.
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Physician Assistant
Average Salary: $139,488
Physician assistants provide medical care. They work under the supervision of physicians. They see patients and assist in surgeries.
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Director of Nursing
Average Salary: $123,589
Directors of nursing oversee nursing staff. They manage patient care and hospital operations. They work in hospitals and clinics.
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Refrigeration Installer
Average Salary: $121,127
Refrigeration installers work on HVAC systems. They install and maintain refrigeration units. They work in various settings, including commercial buildings.
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Electrician
Average Salary: $119,918
Electricians install and maintain electrical systems. They work on wiring and fixtures. They ensure safety and compliance with codes.
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What are the best paying jobs in Salem, OR without a degree?

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Concrete Finisher
Average Salary: $69,833
This role involves smoothing and finishing concrete surfaces. Workers use tools to shape and level concrete. It is a hands-on job that requires physical strength and attention to detail. Companies like Salem Concrete and local construction firms often hire for this position.
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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. This role requires strong leadership and communication skills. Local restaurants such as The Keg and The Old Spaghetti Factory often seek experienced managers.
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Public Works Operator
Average Salary: $53,831
Operate heavy machinery to maintain public infrastructure. Tasks include operating backhoes, bulldozers, and other equipment. This job requires a valid driver's license and some on-the-job training. The city of Salem and local government agencies often hire for these positions.
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Landscaper
Average Salary: $39,370
Maintain and beautify outdoor spaces. Tasks include planting, pruning, and mowing lawns. This job requires physical fitness and a good eye for detail. Companies like Green Thumb Landscape and local gardening services often hire landscapers.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $39,165
Maintain the grounds of properties. Duties include lawn care, snow removal, and general upkeep. This role requires physical strength and a willingness to work outdoors. Schools, parks, and private properties often need groundskeepers.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $38,864
Clean and maintain rooms in hotels, motels, or other facilities. Tasks include making beds, changing linens, and cleaning bathrooms. This job requires attention to detail and a strong work ethic. Hotels like the Hilton and local motels often hire housekeepers.
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Sewing Machine Operator
Average Salary: $38,000
Operate sewing machines to produce garments. This role involves cutting fabric, sewing pieces together, and finishing products. Companies like Salem Textiles and local garment factories often hire operators.
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Server
Average Salary: $35,913
Serve food and drinks to customers in a restaurant. Duties include taking orders, delivering food, and ensuring customer satisfaction. This role requires good communication skills and a friendly demeanor. Local restaurants like The Keg and The Old Spaghetti Factory often hire servers.
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To Go Specialist
Average Salary: $34,694
Prepare and package food for customers to take away. Duties include assembling orders, ensuring accuracy, and maintaining a clean work area. This role requires attention to detail and efficiency. Fast-food restaurants and local eateries often hire To Go Specialists.
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Server Assistant
Average Salary: $34,502
Assist servers in a restaurant. Tasks include setting tables, clearing dishes, and helping with customer service. This role requires a team-oriented approach and good communication skills. Local restaurants often hire Server Assistants to support their staff.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Salem, OR?

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Creative Electric
Average Salary: $141,457
Creative Electric is a leading provider of electrical services. They offer a range of services from design to installation. Their team works on projects for both commercial and residential clients.
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Deloitte
Average Salary: $122,758
Deloitte is a global leader in consulting and technology. They offer services in areas like audit, tax, and financial advisory. Deloitte is known for its innovative approach and strong client relationships.
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Supplemental Health Care
Average Salary: $109,963
Supplemental Health Care specializes in healthcare staffing. They provide temporary and permanent staffing solutions for hospitals and clinics. Their goal is to improve patient care through quality staffing.
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CVS Health
Average Salary: $105,099
CVS Health is a major healthcare company. They offer pharmacy, health insurance, and retail services. CVS Health is committed to making healthcare more affordable and accessible.
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Amedisys
Average Salary: $102,715
Amedisys provides home health, hospice, and palliative care services. They focus on delivering high-quality care to patients in their homes. Their team includes nurses, therapists, and home health aides.
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The Stepping Stones Group
Average Salary: $101,869
The Stepping Stones Group offers staffing solutions for healthcare professionals. They place nurses, therapists, and other healthcare workers in various settings. They aim to connect skilled professionals with quality care facilities.
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Arrow Dental
Average Salary: $96,009
Arrow Dental is a dental service organization. They provide administrative and operational support to dental practices. Their goal is to help dentists focus on patient care while managing the business side.
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Concrete Strategies
Average Salary: $94,065
Concrete Strategies offers consulting services in project management and business strategy. They work with clients to improve efficiency and achieve their goals. Their focus is on delivering practical and effective solutions.
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Oregon Health Authority
Average Salary: $90,585
The Oregon Health Authority is the state's health agency. They oversee public health programs and policies. Their mission is to improve the health of all Oregonians through effective programs and services.
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ProCare Therapy
Average Salary: $90,374
ProCare Therapy provides therapy services for children and adults. They offer physical, occupational, and speech therapy. Their goal is to help patients achieve their highest level of function and independence.
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, which is set at 100. Housing, for instance, stands at 116, indicating that it costs 16% more to live in Salem than the national average. This higher cost can be a significant factor for job seekers considering relocation, as housing expenses are often a major part of monthly budgets.
Other areas like groceries and utilities also show some differences. Groceries in Salem have a cost of living index of 102, which means they are 2% more expensive than the national average. Utilities, however, are slightly cheaper, with an index of 93, representing a 7% decrease. Transportation costs remain in line with the national average, with an index of 100, offering no change in cost. Healthcare and miscellaneous expenses also show minor variations, with healthcare at 96 and miscellaneous at 104, indicating 4% and 4% differences, respectively. These variations can help job seekers make informed decisions about their potential new living situation.



