Total salaries in 1999 increased to $323.28 million, 31.99% over 1998. This figure is consistent with economic growth and inflation. Salaries are a significant factor in economic health because they represent direct spending in the region.

The area's economy is further benefited by the high-skill and high-wage jobs generated by Medical Center member institutions. The average salary for employees of HRMC member institutions was $36,012 for the current period. This represents a 20.12% increase over the previous year.