Lawyer Salary in Salem, Oregon
The median lawyer salary in Salem, OR is $138,455 per year, which is 2.0% above the national median and 7.3% below the Oregon state average.
Lawyer Pay in Salem: What to Expect (2026)
Salem offers a median lawyer salary of $138,455, which is $10,859 below the Oregon state average of $149,314. Compared to the national median of $135,740, 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 lawyers in Salem spans from $66,300 at the 10th percentile to $243,984 at the 90th percentile — a $177,684 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $71,400, while senior lawyers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $224,400. With a population of 175,535, Salem is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Lawyer Salary in Salem by Experience
In Salem, an entry-level lawyer earns around $71,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $224,400 per year. The local cost of living index is 102% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Salem, OR
| Percentile | Salem |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $66,300 |
| 25th Percentile | $86,700 |
| Median (50th) | $138,455 |
| 75th Percentile | $189,720 |
| 90th Percentile | $243,984 |
Lawyer Salary in Other Oregon Cities
How to Become a Lawyer in Salem
Education
Most lawyer positions require a doctoral degree. Salem and the surrounding Oregon area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, lawyer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Salem may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Lawyer Jobs in Salem
Browse open lawyer positions in Salem, OR: