Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Salem, MO
Considering a move to Salem, MO? With a friendly, small-town population of just under 5,000, Salem offers affordable living—median home prices around $110,000 and average rents near $695. The town enjoys short commutes (about 19 minutes), a moderate climate with 56% sunny days, and the convenience of local schools and a community hospital. While property crime rates are higher than average, Salem’s cost of living is low, and you’ll find a welcoming atmosphere and easy access to the scenic Ozarks.
Demographics - Salem, MO
Salem, Missouri is a close-knit community of about 4,900 residents, with a predominantly White population and a median age of 40.6 years. The city features a balanced gender ratio and a modest percentage of non-English speakers, fostering a welcoming small-town atmosphere. Its population density provides a sense of community while still offering personal space.
Population:
4,918
Density:
1,240 per sq mi
Median Age:
40.6
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
95.2%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
3.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Salem, MO?
Salem offers an affordable lifestyle, with a median home value of $110,000 and average rent around $695 per month. The cost of living index is significantly below the national average, making everyday expenses like groceries, utilities, and transportation budget-friendly. Residents benefit from low state taxes and overall housing costs that make the city attractive for families and retirees alike.
Median House Value:
$110,000
Gross Rent:
$695
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,310
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$980
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$340
State Taxes:
Low:
1.5%
|
High:
5.4%
Cost Of Living Index:
78.6
Grocery:
93.2
Housing:
55.4
Utilities:
97.1
Transportation:
81.0
Health Care:
90.5
Miscellaneous:
86.3
Crime
Is Salem, MO a safe place to live?
While Salem maintains a small-town feel, property crime rates are higher than the national average, with a chance of 1 in 34 of being a victim. Violent crime remains relatively low, with 368 incidents per 100,000 residents, but new residents should remain aware and take common-sense precautions. The community continues to prioritize safety and neighborhood watch efforts.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
368
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,925
Crime Index:
3,293
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 272
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 34
Weather
What is the weather like in Salem, MO year-round?
Salem experiences four distinct seasons, with mild winters averaging lows around 20°F and warm summers reaching up to 88°F. The city enjoys 56% sunny days and receives about 45 inches of annual rainfall, providing a balance of pleasant weather and lush green scenery. Residents can expect comfortable spring and fall temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
20°F
Max:
41°F
Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
70°F
Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
88°F
Fall
Min:
46°F
Max:
73°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
45.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
Salem's residents enjoy a median household income of $37,800 and a low average commute of just under 19 minutes. The community has a strong high school graduation rate and a friendly, small-town vibe, though the poverty rate is higher than average. Most people rely on personal vehicles, with public transportation usage being minimal.
Median Income:
$34,000
Household Income:
$37,800
Family Income:
$46,100
Per Capita Income:
$19,200
Income Male:
$30,900
Income Female:
$22,500
Poverty Rate:
23.4%
Non English Speakers:
2.8%
Rent:
$695
Unemployment Rate:
4.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
18.6 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
82.7%
Bachelors or More:
13.5%
Education
How are the schools in Salem, MO?
Salem offers quality education through public schools such as Salem Senior High and William Lynch Elementary, both known for reasonable class sizes and dedicated staff. Private schooling is available at Salem Lutheran School, and higher education options include Missouri S&T just 30 miles away in Rolla. The community places a strong emphasis on educational achievement and resources for families.
Public Schools
Name:
Salem Senior High School
Street:
1400 Tiger Pride Dr
Phone:
573-729-6641
Students:
610
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.6
Name:
William Lynch Elementary School
Street:
101 W Third St
Phone:
573-729-6611
Students:
320
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.7
Private Schools
Name:
Salem Lutheran School
Street:
403 Scenic Rivers Blvd
Phone:
573-729-6510
Students:
55
Colleges
Name:
Missouri S&T
City:
Rolla
State:
MO
Distance:
30 miles
Students:
7,200
Healthcare
Salem is served by the Salem Memorial District Hospital, offering general and emergency care to the community. With 0.8 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 83% health insurance coverage, basic healthcare needs are met locally. The healthcare system is accessible, though residents may travel for specialized services.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Salem Memorial District Hospital
Address:
35629 Highway 72, Salem, MO 65560
Phone:
(573) 729-6626
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
0.8
Health Insurance Coverage:
83.2%
Health Care Index:
62.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Salem, MO?
Salem’s housing market is highly affordable, with a median home price of $110,000 and 60% owner-occupied homes. Rental options are available, and vacancy rates remain moderate, giving buyers and renters flexibility. The market has seen steady appreciation, making it an appealing choice for both long-term residents and new arrivals.
Median Home Price:
$110,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$695
Owner Occupied Rate:
59.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.9%
DMV Information
Residents of Salem can access the Missouri Department of Revenue office conveniently located on South Main Street for all vehicle and driver services. The office provides standard DMV functions, including licensing and registration, and offers helpful staff and online resources through the state website. Local access makes managing transportation needs straightforward.
State:
Missouri
Department:
Missouri Department of Revenue
Address:
910 S Main St, Salem, MO 65560
Phone:
(573) 729-4829
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.