Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Salem, OH
Thinking of moving to Salem, OH? With a small-town population of 11,887, Salem offers affordable living—median home prices are just $124,000 and average rents around $760. The city enjoys a modest crime rate (180 violent crimes per 100k), short 22-minute commutes, and a tight-knit community feel. While the cost of living is well below national averages, Salem features reputable schools, a full-service regional hospital, and four beautiful seasons—perfect for families or anyone seeking value and community.
Demographics - Salem, OH
Salem, OH is home to just under 12,000 residents, with a median age of 41.2 and a predominantly White population. The city has a balanced gender ratio and a close-knit, small-town atmosphere, making it an inviting place for families and retirees alike.
Population:
11,887
Density:
1,900 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.2
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.3%
Ethnic Composition
White:
93.0%
Black:
2.2%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
4.1%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Salem, OH?
Salem offers a notably low cost of living, with median home values at $124,000 and average rents around $760 per month. Utilities and essentials are budget-friendly, and the overall cost of living index is well below the national average, making Salem an attractive choice for affordable living.
Median House Value:
$124,000
Gross Rent:
$760
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$930
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,060
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
0.5%
|
High:
3.99%
Cost Of Living Index:
76.1
Grocery:
94.2
Housing:
52.1
Utilities:
94.6
Transportation:
91.2
Health Care:
87.9
Miscellaneous:
89.5
Crime
Is Salem, OH a safe place to live?
Residents of Salem benefit from a relatively low violent crime rate of 180 per 100,000 people, with property crime being more common but still comparable to similar-sized communities. Most residents feel safe, contributing to the city's welcoming small-town environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
180
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,920
Crime Index:
2,100
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 555
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 52
Weather
What is the weather like in Salem, OH year-round?
Salem experiences all four seasons, with warm summers reaching highs around 83°F and cold winters dipping to about 19°F. The city receives roughly 38.5 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine nearly half the year, allowing for a variety of outdoor activities year-round.
Winter
Min:
19°F
Max:
36°F
Spring
Min:
39°F
Max:
64°F
Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
42°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
38.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
48%
Neighbors
Salem’s neighborhoods reflect a mix of modest incomes, with a median household income of $42,300 and a poverty rate of 16.2%. Most adults have at least a high school education, and commute times average just under 22 minutes, supporting a comfortable, community-oriented lifestyle.
Median Income:
$27,900
Household Income:
$42,300
Family Income:
$58,900
Per Capita Income:
$22,300
Income Male:
$36,500
Income Female:
$28,900
Poverty Rate:
16.2%
Non English Speakers:
3.3%
Rent:
$760
Unemployment Rate:
5.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.4%
Commute Time:
21.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
87.9%
Bachelors or More:
16.3%
Education
How are the schools in Salem, OH?
Families in Salem benefit from well-regarded public and private schools, including Salem High School and St. Paul School, with reasonable student-to-teacher ratios. Higher education is easily accessible at Kent State University’s Salem campus, located just a few miles from downtown.
Public Schools
Name:
Salem High School
Street:
1200 East 6th St
Phone:
330-332-8905
Students:
650
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.0
Name:
Buckeye Elementary School
Street:
1200 Buckeye Ave
Phone:
330-332-8917
Students:
400
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.5
Private Schools
Name:
St. Paul School
Street:
925 E State St
Phone:
330-337-3451
Students:
180
Colleges
Name:
Kent State University - Salem
City:
Salem
State:
OH
Distance:
3 miles
Students:
2,000
Healthcare
Salem Regional Medical Center provides comprehensive care with emergency services, supported by a solid network of local physicians. Over 91% of residents have health insurance, ensuring most have access to essential healthcare services.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Salem Regional Medical Center
Address:
1995 E State St, Salem, OH 44460
Phone:
(330) 332-1551
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.8
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.5%
Health Care Index:
61.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Salem, OH?
The Salem housing market is affordable and stable, with a median home price of $124,000 and moderate rent levels. Homeownership is common, vacancy rates are manageable, and homes have seen steady appreciation, making the area accessible for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$124,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$760
Owner Occupied Rate:
59.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.4%
New Construction Rate:
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents can handle licensing and vehicle registration needs through the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, which offers convenient access both online and at regional offices. The process is streamlined for new arrivals and long-term residents alike.
State:
Ohio
Department:
Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1970 W. Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43223
Phone:
1-844-644-6268
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.