Architect Salary in Salem, Oregon
The median architect salary in Salem, OR is $84,497 per year, which is 2.0% above the national median and 7.3% below the Oregon state average.
Architect Pay in Salem: What to Expect (2026)
Salem offers a median architect salary of $84,497, which is $6,627 below the Oregon state average of $91,124. Compared to the national median of $82,840, Salem pays above average for this role.
Salem's cost of living is 102% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for architects in Salem spans from $51,000 at the 10th percentile to $150,960 at the 90th percentile — a $99,960 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $53,040, while senior architects with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $142,800. With a population of 175,535, Salem is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Architect Salary in Salem by Experience
In Salem, an entry-level architect earns around $53,040, while experienced professionals earn up to $142,800 per year. The local cost of living index is 102% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Salem, OR
| Percentile | Salem |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $51,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $65,280 |
| Median (50th) | $84,497 |
| 75th Percentile | $114,240 |
| 90th Percentile | $150,960 |
Architect Salary in Other Oregon Cities
How to Become a Architect in Salem
Education
Most architect positions require a bachelor's degree. Salem and the surrounding Oregon area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, architect employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Salem may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Architect Jobs in Salem
Browse open architect positions in Salem, OR: