What is the average salary in Salem, VA?
Salem, VA, offers a range of salary opportunities across different industries. Job seekers can expect a competitive average yearly salary of $56,657. This figure serves as a good benchmark for various career paths available in the area.
The distribution of salaries varies across sectors. The largest percentage of jobs, 26.31%, align with a salary of $26,350. Conversely, the smallest percentage, 0.99%, correspond to the highest salary range of $140,750. Other notable salary brackets include 22.12% at $36,750 and 12.30% at $47,150. This distribution offers insight into the earning potential across different roles and industries in Salem, VA.
What are the best paying jobs in Salem, VA?

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Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $97,014
Traveling nurses work with various healthcare facilities, providing care in different locations. They often find opportunities with hospitals like Lewis-Gale Medical Center. These roles require flexibility and a strong ability to adapt to new environments.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $96,582
Registered nurses are essential in providing patient care and support. They work in hospitals and clinics, collaborating with doctors and other healthcare professionals. Facilities such as Salem VA Medical Center offer rewarding career paths for these dedicated individuals.
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Surgical Technician
Average Salary: $95,051
Surgical technicians assist in surgeries, preparing the operating room and helping surgeons. These professionals work in busy hospitals, ensuring everything runs smoothly. They play a crucial role in medical teams, contributing to successful surgeries.
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Radiologic Technologist
Average Salary: $77,589
Radiologic technologists perform imaging exams, such as X-rays and MRIs. They work in diagnostic imaging centers and hospitals, ensuring patients receive accurate test results. These professionals use advanced technology to help doctors diagnose and treat patients effectively.
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General Manager
Average Salary: $66,609
General managers oversee business operations, ensuring everything runs smoothly. They manage staff, handle budgets, and drive sales. This role is common in retail stores, restaurants, and service businesses, providing a chance to lead and grow a team.
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Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $58,571
Licensed practical nurses provide basic patient care and support medical procedures. They work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. These roles require compassion and the ability to work well under pressure, making a real difference in patient care.
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Maintenance Technician
Average Salary: $52,531
Maintenance technicians repair and maintain equipment and facilities. They work in various settings, ensuring everything functions properly. This role is crucial in keeping businesses running smoothly, with opportunities in manufacturing and commercial properties.
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Medical Assistant
Average Salary: $47,198
Medical assistants support doctors and nurses by performing administrative and clinical tasks. They work in clinics and hospitals, helping to ensure smooth patient care. These roles require attention to detail and the ability to work well in a fast-paced environment.
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Auto Body Technician
Average Salary: $43,358
Auto body technicians repair damaged vehicles, using their skills to restore them to good condition. They work in auto repair shops, focusing on the exterior and interior of cars. This role requires technical knowledge and precision, making it rewarding for those with an eye for detail.
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Forklift Operator
Average Salary: $41,564
Forklift operators move heavy materials and goods using forklifts. They work in warehouses, factories, and distribution centers. This role demands focus and attention to safety, ensuring the smooth movement of products.
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What are the best paying jobs in Salem, VA without a degree?

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Loader
Average Salary: $41,138
Loaders drive forklifts and move materials. They work at warehouses and distribution centers, like Roanoke Food & Supply. They load and unload trucks, ensuring items are ready for sale.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $40,874
Restaurant managers oversee daily operations. They work at places like Cracker Barrel and Red Lobster. They manage staff, create menus, and ensure customers have a good experience.
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Barista
Average Salary: $31,389
Baristas make coffee drinks for customers. They work at cafes such as Starbucks and Dutch Bros. They take orders, prepare drinks, and keep the area clean.
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Kitchen Team Member
Average Salary: $30,453
Kitchen team members help with food preparation. They work at restaurants like Panera Bread and Chipotle. They prepare ingredients, cook food, and clean the kitchen.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $30,397
Line cooks prepare meals quickly. They work at fast-food places and casual dining spots. They cook on assembly lines, ensuring food is ready fast for busy restaurants.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $29,646
Housekeepers clean rooms in hotels and motels. They work at places like Holiday Inn and Comfort Inn. They make beds, clean bathrooms, and tidy up guest rooms.
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Server
Average Salary: $29,045
Servers take orders and serve food to customers. They work at many local restaurants. They greet guests, explain menus, and ensure tables are clean and ready for new guests.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $28,581
Dishwashers clean dishes and utensils. They work in many dining spots. They wash dishes by hand, load dishwashers, and keep the kitchen area clean.
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Server Assistant
Average Salary: $27,108
Server assistants help with table setup and service. They work at family-style restaurants. They set up tables, clear dishes, and help servers during busy times.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Salem, VA?

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Nomad Health
Average Salary: $105,184
Nomad Health connects healthcare professionals with top-tier facilities. They offer competitive pay and benefits, making them a great choice.
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Service Experts
Average Salary: $103,004
Service Experts provides home services. They value their employees, offering attractive salaries and benefits.
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Medical Solutions
Average Salary: $78,581
Medical Solutions helps healthcare professionals find jobs. They offer good pay and benefits.
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Research Data Group
Average Salary: $58,622
Research Data Group specializes in research and data analysis. They offer competitive salaries.
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US Foods
Average Salary: $55,800
US Foods supplies food to businesses. They offer a stable salary and benefits.
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Mount Regis Center
Average Salary: $52,198
Mount Regis Center provides mental health care. They offer a good salary and benefits.
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HopeTree Family Services
Average Salary: $48,143
HopeTree Family Services offers child welfare services. They provide a decent salary.
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Roanoke College
Average Salary: $43,871
Roanoke College is an educational institution. They offer good salaries for their staff.
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Brookdale Senior Living
Average Salary: $37,591
Brookdale Senior Living provides senior care. They offer fair compensation.
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Domino's
Average Salary: $34,324
Domino's is a well-known pizza chain. They offer competitive wages for their employees.
How does the cost of living in Salem, VA compare to the national average?

Salem, VA, offers a cost of living that is notably lower than the nationwide average, which stands at 100. The housing index in Salem is significantly below average, at 80. This means residents can expect to pay 20% less for housing compared to the national average. People looking to buy or rent a home in Salem may find more affordable options available, making it a potentially attractive location for budget-conscious families and individuals.
In other areas, Salem also shows favorable comparisons to the nationwide average. For groceries, the cost of living index is 95, meaning prices are just 5% above the national average. Utilities, another critical expense, have an index of 90, indicating a 10% savings for Salem residents. Transportation costs reflect this trend with an index of 85, showing a 15% reduction compared to the national average. These lower costs in key areas can make Salem an appealing choice for those seeking a more affordable lifestyle while still receiving essential services at a similar quality to the rest of the country.



