Media & Communications Oregon (OR) Rank #10 of 50

Public Relations Specialist Salary in Oregon

The median public relations specialist salary in Oregon is $74,184 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median of $67,440.

Median Salary
$74,184
vs National
+$6,744
State Rank
#10 of 50
Cost of Living
110%

Public Relations Specialist Salary Overview in Oregon (2026)

Oregon ranks #10 out of 50 states for public relations specialist compensation. This places Oregon in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for public relations specialists seeking high pay. At $74,184 per year, public relations specialists in Oregon earn $6,744 more than the national median of $67,440.

It's worth noting that Oregon's cost of living is 110% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $74,184 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $67,440.

The salary spread in Oregon is significant: public relations specialists at the 10th percentile earn $41,800, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $132,000 — a $90,200 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Oregon for this role is Portland, where the median reaches $79,579.

Nationally, public relations specialist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for public relations specialists across the country.

Public Relations Specialist Salary in Oregon by Experience

In Oregon, an entry-level public relations specialist earns around $46,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $123,200 per year. The cost of living index in Oregon is 110% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$46,200
+$4,200 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$77,000
+$7,000 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$123,200
+$11,200 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Oregon

Percentile OR Salary
10th Percentile $41,800
25th Percentile $55,000
Median (50th) $74,184
75th Percentile $100,100
90th Percentile $132,000

Public Relations Specialist Salary by City in Oregon

The largest employment areas for public relations specialists in Oregon include Portland, Salem, Eugene, and Gresham. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Public Relations Specialist in Oregon

Education

Most public relations specialist positions require a bachelor's degree. Oregon has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Media RelationsPress ReleasesCrisis CommunicationsSocial MediaEvent PlanningBrand Management

Job Outlook in Oregon

Nationally, public relations specialist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Oregon's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Public Relations Specialist Salary in Oregon

How much does a Public Relations Specialist make in Oregon? ▼
The median public relations specialist salary in Oregon is $74,184 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median of $67,440. Salaries range from $41,800 (10th percentile) to $132,000 (90th percentile).
How much does a Public Relations Specialist make per hour in Oregon? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $74,184, a public relations specialist in Oregon earns approximately $36 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Oregon a good state for public relations specialists? ▼
Oregon ranks #10 out of 50 states for public relations specialist pay. The cost of living index is 110% of the national average. Entry-level public relations specialists earn $46,200, while senior professionals earn $123,200.
How does Oregon compare to other states for public relations specialist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for public relations specialists is Hawaii at $114,648. Oregon's median of $74,184 ranks #10 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Connecticut ($75,533) and Maryland ($74,184).
What is the entry-level public relations specialist salary in Oregon? ▼
An entry-level public relations specialist in Oregon earns approximately $46,200 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $77,000. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $123,200.
What city in Oregon pays public relations specialists the most? ▼
Portland is the highest paying city in Oregon for public relations specialists, with a median salary of $79,579. Other cities include Salem and Eugene.