Dentist Salary in Salem, Oregon
The median dentist salary in Salem, OR is $166,785 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median and 7.1% below the Oregon state average.
Dentist Pay in Salem: What to Expect (2026)
Salem offers a median dentist salary of $166,785, which is $12,829 below the Oregon state average of $179,614. Compared to the national median of $160,370, 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 dentists in Salem spans from $83,200 at the 10th percentile to $262,080 at the 90th percentile — a $178,880 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $88,400, while senior dentists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $244,400. With a population of 175,535, Salem is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Dentist Salary in Salem by Experience
In Salem, an entry-level dentist earns around $88,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $244,400 per year. The local cost of living index is 102% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Salem, OR
| Percentile | Salem |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $83,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $119,600 |
| Median (50th) | $166,785 |
| 75th Percentile | $216,320 |
| 90th Percentile | $262,080 |
Dentist Salary in Other Oregon Cities
How to Become a Dentist in Salem
Education
Most dentist positions require a doctoral degree. Salem and the surrounding Oregon area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, dentist employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Salem may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Dentist Jobs in Salem
Browse open dentist positions in Salem, OR: