Oregon / Marion County

Moving to Salem, OR

Thinking of making a move to Salem, OR? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Salem, OR

Considering a move to Salem, OR? This welcoming community of 177,694 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $385,000 and average rents near $1,380. Commute times average 24 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (46% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Salem's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Salem, OR

Salem has a population of 177,694 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 37 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 70% White, 1% Black, and 3% Asian residents, and over 18% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
177,694
Density
3,500 per sq mi
Median Age
36.8
Gender Ratio
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
18.0%

Ethnic Composition

White
69.7%
Black
1.2%
Asian
3.3%
Others
25.8%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Salem, OR?

The cost of living in Salem is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 104.5. Median home values are around $385,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $1,380. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$385,000
Gross Rent
$1,380
Monthly Electricity Charges
$110
Auto Insurance
$1,045
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$1,890
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$510
State Taxes
Low: 4.75%| High: 9.9%
Cost Of Living Index
104.5
Grocery
99.8
Housing
106.7
Utilities
91.2
Transportation
98.4
Health Care
106.5
Miscellaneous
102.6

Crime

Is Salem, OR a safe place to live?

Salem is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 375 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 27. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Oregon.

Violent Crimes Per 100k
375
Property Crimes Per 100k
3,620
Crime Index
3,995
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 267
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 27

Weather

What is the weather like in Salem, OR year-round?

Salem experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 82°F and cold winters dipping to 34°F. The area receives about 40 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 46% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
34°F
Max
47°F

Summer

Min
53°F
Max
82°F

Spring

Min
42°F
Max
63°F

Fall

Min
43°F
Max
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches
40.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
46%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $62,020 and a low poverty rate of 15.6%. Over 89% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 25% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 24 minutes, and almost 3% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$33,800
Household Income
$62,020
Family Income
$72,300
Per Capita Income
$29,870
Income Male
$41,500
Income Female
$34,700
Poverty Rate
15.6%
Non English Speakers
18.0%
Rent
$1,380
Unemployment Rate
4.1%
Public Transport Usage
2.7%
Commute Time
23.7 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
88.7%
Bachelors or More
25.1%

Education

How are the schools in Salem, OR?

Salem offers quality education options, with public schools like South Salem High School and West Salem High School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Willamette University and Chemeketa Community College. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

Public Schools

Name
South Salem High School
Street
1910 Church St SE
Phone
503-399-3252
Students
2,150
Student Teacher Ratio
23:1
Name
West Salem High School
Street
1776 Titan Dr NW
Phone
503-399-5533
Students
1,750
Student Teacher Ratio
22:1

Private Schools

Name
Blanchet Catholic School
Street
4373 Market St NE
Phone
503-391-2639
Students
350

Colleges

Name
Willamette University
City
Salem
State
OR
Distance
0 miles
Students
1,800
Name
Chemeketa Community College
City
Salem
State
OR
Distance
0 miles
Students
9,000

Healthcare

Salem residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Salem Hospital and Legacy Silverton Medical Center nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 2.6 per 1,000 people and 91.4% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
Salem Hospital
Address
890 Oak St SE, Salem, OR 97301
Phone
(503) 561-5200
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes
Name
Legacy Silverton Medical Center
Address
342 Fairview St, Silverton, OR 97381
Phone
(503) 873-1500
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
2.6
Health Insurance Coverage
91.4%
Health Care Index
77.0

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Salem, OR?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $385,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 53%. The market has seen a 2.9% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 5.9%. Salem offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$385,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$1,380
Owner Occupied Rate
52.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate
5.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
2.9%
New Construction Rate
1.5%
Foreclosure Rate
0.6%

DMV Information

Residents of Salem handle vehicle services through the Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicle Services, conveniently located in Salem. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Oregon
Department
Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicle Services
Address
925 Commercial St SE, Salem, OR 97302
Phone
503-945-5000

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.

FAQs About Moving to Salem, OR

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Salem, review the core fields on this page: population 177,694, median home value $385,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $1,380, commute time 23.7 minutes, and sunny days percentage 46%.

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