Urban Planner Salary in Salem, Oregon
The median urban planner salary in Salem, OR is $81,131 per year, which is 2.0% above the national median and 7.3% below the Oregon state average.
Urban Planner Pay in Salem: What to Expect (2026)
Salem offers a median urban planner salary of $81,131, which is $6,363 below the Oregon state average of $87,494. Compared to the national median of $79,540, 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 urban planners in Salem spans from $51,000 at the 10th percentile to $124,440 at the 90th percentile — a $73,440 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $53,040, while senior urban planners with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $120,360. With a population of 175,535, Salem is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Urban Planner Salary in Salem by Experience
In Salem, an entry-level urban planner earns around $53,040, while experienced professionals earn up to $120,360 per year. The local cost of living index is 102% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Salem, OR
| Percentile | Salem |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $51,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $64,260 |
| Median (50th) | $81,131 |
| 75th Percentile | $102,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $124,440 |
Urban Planner Salary in Other Oregon Cities
How to Become a Urban Planner in Salem
Education
Most urban planner positions require a master's degree. Salem and the surrounding Oregon area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, urban planner employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Salem may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Urban Planner Jobs in Salem
Browse open urban planner positions in Salem, OR: