Economist Salary in Salem, Oregon
The median economist salary in Salem, OR is $116,219 per year, which is 2.0% above the national median and 7.3% below the Oregon state average.
Economist Pay in Salem: What to Expect (2026)
Salem offers a median economist salary of $116,219, which is $9,115 below the Oregon state average of $125,334. Compared to the national median of $113,940, 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 economists in Salem spans from $63,240 at the 10th percentile to $201,960 at the 90th percentile — a $138,720 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $66,300, while senior economists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $188,700. With a population of 175,535, Salem is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Economist Salary in Salem by Experience
In Salem, an entry-level economist earns around $66,300, while experienced professionals earn up to $188,700 per year. The local cost of living index is 102% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Salem, OR
| Percentile | Salem |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $63,240 |
| 25th Percentile | $83,640 |
| Median (50th) | $116,219 |
| 75th Percentile | $158,100 |
| 90th Percentile | $201,960 |
Economist Salary in Other Oregon Cities
How to Become a Economist in Salem
Education
Most economist positions require a master's degree. Salem and the surrounding Oregon area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, economist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Salem may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Economist Jobs in Salem
Browse open economist positions in Salem, OR: