Job growth that’s among the strongest in the nation. Household incomes steadily increasing. A booming high-tech sector keeping economic growth on the rise. This is Oregon, a darling of the West Coast where Nike reigns supreme and the only thing more impressive than the economy are the views.
For aspiring and practicing paralegals, Oregon is a veritable gem, offering opportunities with corporate powerhouses, regional and national law firms, and governmental agencies at nearly every level.
Paralegal Job Market Trends in Oregon
As of May 2024, the average salary for paralegals in Oregon was $70,210, which was higher than the national average of $66,510 for this profession.
You’ll be pleased to know that there’s plenty of room for growth for paralegals in Oregon who have the experience, skills, and specialized training in one or more areas of law that most big employers demand. In fact, during this same period, the top 10% of paralegals in Oregon earned salaries that started at $99,780 – that’s $29,570 more than the state average.
Average Paralegal Salary in Oregon by City
Portland came out on top for its average pay of paralegals in Oregon, while Grants Pass did better than all other metro areas when it came to top 10% salaries.
Portland, which hosts company headquarters and their legal departments, such as Nike and Precision Castparts Corporation, as well as the state’s two largest law firms: Stoel Rives and Schwabe, Williamson & Wyatt, also inched ahead other metro areas for its pay of paralegals during this time.
Salem is home to the headquarters of many government institutions, including the legislature and the state’s 3rd Judicial District.
Portland:
- Average – $74,410 ($35.78 hourly)
- Top 10% – $101,330 ($48.72 hourly)
Salem:
- Average – $67,530 ($32.47 hourly)
- Top 10% – $93,620 ($45.01 hourly)
Grants Pass:
- Average – $66,180 ($31.82 hourly)
- Top 10% – $114,240 ($54.93 hourly)
Medford:
- Average – $64,500 ($31.01 hourly)
- Top 10% – $81,440 ($39.15 hourly)
Bend:
- Average – $63,970 ($30.75 hourly)
- Top 10% – $95,270 ($45.80 hourly)
Eugene:
- Average – $60,990 ($29.32 hourly)
- Top 10% – $93,620 ($45.01 hourly)
Corvallis:
- Average – $59,330 ($28.53 hourly)
- Top 10% – $87,990 ($42.30 hourly)
Albany:
- Average – $55,400 ($26.64 hourly)
- Top 10% – $71,990 ($34.61 hourly)
May 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics salary, growth, and job market trends for paralegals and legal assistants. Figures represent state data, not school specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed May 2025.