Judge Salary in Salem, Oregon
The median judge salary in Salem, OR is $150,991 per year, which is 2.0% above the national median and 7.3% below the Oregon state average.
Judge Pay in Salem: What to Expect (2026)
Salem offers a median judge salary of $150,991, which is $11,842 below the Oregon state average of $162,833. Compared to the national median of $148,030, 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 judges in Salem spans from $59,160 at the 10th percentile to $234,600 at the 90th percentile — a $175,440 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $66,300, while senior judges with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $219,300. With a population of 175,535, Salem is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Judge Salary in Salem by Experience
In Salem, an entry-level judge earns around $66,300, while experienced professionals earn up to $219,300 per year. The local cost of living index is 102% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Salem, OR
| Percentile | Salem |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $59,160 |
| 25th Percentile | $91,800 |
| Median (50th) | $150,991 |
| 75th Percentile | $198,900 |
| 90th Percentile | $234,600 |
Judge Salary in Other Oregon Cities
How to Become a Judge in Salem
Education
Most judge positions require a doctoral degree. Salem and the surrounding Oregon area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, judge 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 Judge Jobs in Salem
Browse open judge positions in Salem, OR: