What is the average salary in Salem, VA?
Job seekers in Salem, VA, can look forward to competitive salaries across various industries. The average yearly salary is around $57,473. This figure reflects the economic opportunities available in the area.
Some of the top-paying sectors in Salem include:
- Information Technology: $148,500
- Healthcare: $126,591
- Finance: $115,636
- Engineering: $104,682
- Management: $93,727
These numbers provide a clear picture of the potential earnings in different fields.
What are the best paying jobs in Salem, VA?

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Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $99,617
Traveling nurses enjoy flexibility and variety. They work in different locations, often for higher pay. Employers in the area include local hospitals and travel nursing agencies.
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Surgical Technician
Average Salary: $92,383
Surgical technicians assist during surgeries. They prepare operating rooms and help surgeons. Local hospitals and surgical centers are key employers.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $92,006
Registered nurses provide care to patients. They work in various settings, including hospitals and clinics. Local healthcare facilities hire many registered nurses.
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Radiologic Technologist
Average Salary: $85,453
Radiologic technologists operate imaging equipment. They produce images for doctors to diagnose. Local hospitals and diagnostic centers offer many opportunities.
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Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $62,961
Licensed practical nurses provide basic patient care. They work in hospitals, nursing homes, and home care settings. Local healthcare facilities need LPNs.
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Maintenance Technician
Average Salary: $49,794
Maintenance technicians fix and maintain equipment. They work in various industries, ensuring systems run smoothly. Local businesses and facilities hire for these roles.
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Medical Assistant
Average Salary: $46,883
Medical assistants help doctors with patient care. They perform administrative and clinical tasks. Clinics and medical offices offer many jobs.
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Auto Body Technician
Average Salary: $46,164
Auto body technicians repair vehicle damage. They work in auto repair shops. Local auto dealerships and body shops hire these professionals.
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Forklift Operator
Average Salary: $42,713
Forklift operators move heavy items. They work in warehouses and distribution centers. Local businesses and logistics companies offer many jobs.
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Customer Service Representative
Average Salary: $40,662
Customer service representatives help clients. They handle inquiries and provide support. Local businesses and companies in Salem offer many opportunities.
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What are the best paying jobs in Salem, VA without a degree?

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Loader
Average Salary: $43,333
Loaders transport goods from warehouses to delivery trucks. This role is crucial for businesses like retail chains and grocery stores. They must ensure the safe and efficient movement of products.
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Barista
Average Salary: $31,858
Baristas prepare coffee beverages in cafes and coffee shops. They interact with customers daily, providing a friendly service. This role requires quick work and attention to detail in creating drinks.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $31,138
Dishwasher duties involve cleaning dishes and kitchen tools in restaurants. This job needs strong teamwork and attention to hygiene. Dishwashers help keep the kitchen running smoothly.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $30,829
Line cooks prepare meals in fast-paced kitchens. They work closely with chefs and other kitchen staff to ensure timely service. This role demands good time management and culinary skills.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $30,757
Housekeeping staff clean rooms in hotels and motels. They ensure a comfortable and inviting environment for guests. Attention to detail is key in keeping public spaces tidy.
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Server Assistant
Average Salary: $29,156
Server assistants support servers in restaurants by setting up tables and restocking supplies. They interact with guests to enhance their dining experience. This role is essential for smooth restaurant operations.
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Server
Average Salary: $28,656
Servers take food orders and serve meals in restaurants. They need to be friendly and efficient. Servers often work in teams to ensure guests enjoy their dining experience.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Salem, VA?

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Nomad Health
Average Salary: $104,671
Nomad Health connects healthcare professionals with job opportunities that offer high pay and flexibility.
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U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Average Salary: $95,611
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers jobs with excellent benefits and a chance to serve veterans.
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Medical Solutions
Average Salary: $79,747
Medical Solutions specializes in placing healthcare professionals in temporary roles with competitive salaries.
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LewisGale Regional Health System
Average Salary: $72,337
LewisGale Regional Health System provides a range of healthcare services and job opportunities with good pay.
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KIK Consumer Products
Average Salary: $57,985
KIK Consumer Products is a well-known manufacturer offering jobs with decent salaries in Salem.
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Research Data Group
Average Salary: $57,103
Research Data Group provides research services and offers jobs with a fair salary.
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US Foods
Average Salary: $54,125
US Foods is a food service distributor that offers job opportunities with a solid average salary.
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Blue Ridge Beverage Company, Inc.
Average Salary: $50,963
Blue Ridge Beverage Company, Inc. produces and distributes beverages, offering jobs with a good average salary.
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HopeTree Family Services
Average Salary: $47,354
HopeTree Family Services provides social services and offers jobs with a respectable salary.
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Capstone Logistics, LLC
Average Salary: $47,265
Capstone Logistics, LLC offers logistics services and job opportunities with an average salary.
How does the cost of living in Salem, VA compare to the national average?

The cost of living index in Salem, VA, is notably lower than the nationwide average of 100. This city shows a housing cost of 85, which means residents spend 15% less on housing compared to the average American. Additionally, groceries are 5% cheaper, with an index of 95. While these savings can be significant, it's important to consider all factors before relocating.
Transportation costs in Salem are also slightly lower, with an index of 90, reflecting a 10% savings. Healthcare costs are just above average at 92, meaning they are only 8% higher. Utilities in Salem match the nationwide average of 100, so costs here are on par with the rest of the country. Miscellaneous expenses stand at 88, showing an additional 12% in savings. Salem provides a more affordable lifestyle in several key areas, making it an attractive option for many.



