Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Old Salem, TX
Thinking of moving to Old Salem, TX? With a small-town population of just 300, Old Salem offers affordable living—median home prices are about $117,000 and average rents near $795. Residents enjoy a mild East Texas climate with over 60% sunny days and a relaxed average commute of 27 minutes. Crime rates are lower than national averages, and local schools offer small class sizes, making Old Salem a friendly option for those seeking peace, space, and value. Explore the essentials of cost of living, housing, schools, and healthcare to make the most of your move.
Demographics - Old Salem, TX
Demographics - Old Salem, TX
Old Salem is a close-knit rural community of around 300 residents, with a median age of 46 and a balanced gender ratio. The town is predominantly White, with a notable Black population and a small percentage of non-English speakers, reflecting a modestly diverse environment. Low population density contributes to a quiet, spacious atmosphere ideal for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Population:
300
Density:
42 per sq mi
Median Age:
46.2
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
72.5%
Black:
17.8%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
9.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Old Salem, TX?
With a median home value of $117,000 and average rent at $795, Old Salem offers a cost of living well below the national average. Utility costs and groceries remain affordable, and Texas's lack of state income tax adds to the area's financial appeal. Residents can expect to enjoy a high value for their money in both housing and everyday expenses.
Median House Value:
$117,000
Gross Rent:
$795
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$137
Auto Insurance:
$1,210
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,045
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$345
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
82.6
Grocery:
89.0
Housing:
68.2
Utilities:
97.1
Transportation:
85.0
Health Care:
91.3
Miscellaneous:
89.4
Crime
Is Old Salem, TX a safe place to live?
Old Salem boasts a low crime rate, with violent crime occurring at less than half the national average and a property crime risk of about 1 in 54. These statistics make the town a reassuring choice for families and retirees seeking safety. The overall crime index reflects a secure and peaceful community environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
187
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,860
Crime Index:
2,047
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 535
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 54
Weather
What is the weather like in Old Salem, TX year-round?
Residents of Old Salem experience mild winters, warm summers, and pleasant spring and fall seasons, with average summer highs near 95°F and winter lows around 38°F. The area enjoys 62% sunny days annually and receives about 47 inches of rainfall, supporting lush East Texas landscapes. The climate is ideal for those who appreciate a balance of sun and seasonal variety.
Winter
Min:
38°F
Max:
58°F
Spring
Min:
52°F
Max:
74°F
Summer
Min:
71°F
Max:
95°F
Fall
Min:
55°F
Max:
76°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
47.3 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
The median household income in Old Salem is $54,600, with a poverty rate of 13%, and most residents commute about 27 minutes to work. The community is primarily English-speaking and well-educated, as over 80% have completed high school. The area’s small-town character means neighbors are likely to know each other, fostering a friendly and supportive atmosphere.
Median Income:
$36,200
Household Income:
$54,600
Family Income:
$61,500
Per Capita Income:
$24,900
Income Male:
$38,900
Income Female:
$28,400
Poverty Rate:
13.2%
Non English Speakers:
6.1%
Rent:
$795
Unemployment Rate:
5.4%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
27.3 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
81.7%
Bachelors or More:
18.5%
Education
How are the schools in Old Salem, TX?
Old Salem students attend local public schools with small class sizes, such as Simms Elementary and James Bowie High School, ensuring personalized attention. Higher education opportunities are available within a 35-mile radius, including Texarkana College and Texas A&M University-Texarkana. Although private schooling options are limited, the area is well-served by its quality public education system.
Public Schools
Name:
Simms Elementary School
Street:
11450 US Highway 67 W, Simms, TX 75574
Phone:
903-543-2219
Students:
290
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.5
Name:
James Bowie High School
Street:
47 James Bowie Ln W, Simms, TX 75574
Phone:
903-543-2219
Students:
285
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.8
Colleges
Name:
Texarkana College
City:
Texarkana
State:
TX
Distance:
33 miles
Students:
4,000
Name:
Texas A&M University-Texarkana
City:
Texarkana
State:
TX
Distance:
36 miles
Students:
2,100
Healthcare
Access to healthcare in Old Salem is strong, with major hospitals like CHRISTUS Good Shepherd Medical Center and UT Health Pittsburg nearby, both offering emergency services. Approximately 80% of residents have health insurance, and there are 1.6 physicians per 1,000 people. These resources ensure that medical needs can be met quickly and efficiently.
Major Hospitals
Name:
CHRISTUS Good Shepherd Medical Center
Address:
700 E Marshall Ave, Longview, TX 75601
Phone:
(903) 315-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
UT Health Pittsburg
Address:
2701 US-271, Pittsburg, TX 75686
Phone:
(903) 946-5475
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
80.4%
Health Care Index:
69.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Old Salem, TX?
Old Salem's housing market features a median home price of $117,000 and average two-bedroom rent at $795, making homeownership accessible to many. With a 76% owner-occupancy rate and slow but steady home appreciation, the area is ideal for buyers seeking long-term value and stability. Rental vacancies are moderate, ensuring some availability for newcomers.
Median Home Price:
$117,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$795
Owner Occupied Rate:
76.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents of Old Salem are served by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, with comprehensive resources available online and through the Austin office. Services include vehicle registration, licensing, and title transfers, making it convenient to manage transportation needs. Texans benefit from streamlined DMV processes and helpful customer support.
State:
Texas
Department:
Texas Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
4000 Jackson Ave, Austin, TX 78731
Phone:
1-888-368-4689
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.