Salem is Oregon’s State Capital and is located in two counties, Marion and Polk.

A Great Place to Live and Work

Salem is an exceptional community for both living and working. The city has a mix of new and well-established neighborhoods. Residents come from many cultural and religious backgrounds, creating a vibrant and diverse community.

Many people choose to live in the Salem area because of its family-friendly atmosphere and small-town feel.

Salem's Population

As of 2023, Salem has a population of 182,726, according to Portland State University’s Population Research Center.

Key Statistics from the U.S. Census 

Here are some important statistics about Salem from the 2016-2020 American Community Survey:

Education:

• 88.0% of the population aged 25 years and older have graduated high school or achieved a higher level of education (±1.9).
• 28.9% of the population aged 25 years and older have a bachelor’s degree or higher (±2.5)

Median Age:

•  The total median age in Salem is 34.4 years (±1.1).

Language:

• 21.2% of the population aged 5 years and older speak a language other than English at home (±1.2).

Age Distribution:

• 23.9% of the population is under 18 years old (±0.8).
• 20.9% of the population is 60 years old or older (±0.8).

Housing Statistics in Salem

Here are important housing statistics for Salem from the 2016-2020 American Community Survey:

• Total Housing Units: There are 66,767 housing units in Salem (±990).
• Median Household Income: The median household income is $58,726, adjusted for inflation in 2020 (±2,198).
• Median Home Value: The median value of homes in Salem is $266,200 (±4,696).
• Median Gross Rent: The median gross rent for homes is $1,034 (±27).
• Home Ownership:
  • 54.9% of homes are owner-occupied (±1.5).
  • 45.1% of homes are renter-occupied (±1.5).