Registered Nurse Salary in Salem, Oregon
The median registered nurse salary in Salem, OR is $84,469 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median and 7.1% below the Oregon state average.
Registered Nurse Pay in Salem: What to Expect (2026)
Salem offers a median registered nurse salary of $84,469, which is $6,497 below the Oregon state average of $90,966. Compared to the national median of $81,220, 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 registered nurses in Salem spans from $59,696 at the 10th percentile to $125,632 at the 90th percentile — a $65,936 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $60,320, while senior registered nurses with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $119,600. With a population of 175,535, Salem is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Registered Nurse Salary in Salem by Experience
In Salem, an entry-level registered nurse earns around $60,320, while experienced professionals earn up to $119,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 102% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Salem, OR
| Percentile | Salem |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $59,696 |
| 25th Percentile | $69,472 |
| Median (50th) | $84,469 |
| 75th Percentile | $105,144 |
| 90th Percentile | $125,632 |
Registered Nurse Salary in Other Oregon Cities
How to Become a Registered Nurse in Salem
Education
Most registered nurse positions require a bachelor's degree. Salem and the surrounding Oregon area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, registered nurse 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 Registered Nurse Jobs in Salem
Browse open registered nurse positions in Salem, OR: