Salem, AR
Population 2,727 · Arkansas
About Salem, AR
Salem is a small town located in Arkansas with a population of 2,727 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $79,692 per year, which is 6% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 53.1 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Salem features a median home value of $192,000, which is 22% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Salem in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,168 total housing units, 84% are owner-occupied (984 units) and 16% are renter-occupied (184 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Salem shows an unemployment rate of 0.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 2.5%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Salem have an average one-way commute time of 22.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
28.3% of Salem residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 0.0% White, 2.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 6.5% Asian residents, with 3.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Salem, AR
Compared to national averages, Salem has a median household income of $79,692 (6% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $192,000, which is 22% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Arkansas, Salem's income is 53% above the state average of $52,241, and home values are 53% above the state median of $125,457.
Why Live in Salem, AR?
Salem offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $79,692, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $192,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.0%, and a low poverty rate of 2.5%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 22.4 minutes.
Salem has a population of 2,727 with a median age of 53.1 years. Compare Salem with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Arkansas.
Similar Cities Near Salem
Cities in Arkansas with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dermott | 2,727 | $25,518 | $77,600 | Compare |
| Mayflower | 2,802 | $70,938 | $163,900 | Compare |
| Brinkley | 2,651 | $38,285 | $84,000 | Compare |
| Hoxie | 2,623 | $35,234 | $83,000 | Compare |
| Gosnell | 2,835 | $43,750 | $92,300 | Compare |
| Charleston | 2,611 | $60,058 | $116,500 | Compare |
| Lincoln | 2,862 | $59,688 | $151,000 | Compare |
| North Crossett | 2,583 | $38,750 | $74,600 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Arkansas
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Salem With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Salem
What is the population of Salem, AR?
The population of Salem, AR is 2,727 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Arkansas.
What is the median household income in Salem?
The median household income in Salem, AR is $79,692 per year, which is 6% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Salem?
The median home value in Salem, AR is $192,000, which is 22% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Salem?
The median monthly rent in Salem, AR is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Salem?
The unemployment rate in Salem, AR is 0.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Salem, AR a good place to live?
Salem offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 2,727 and a median age of 53.1, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Salem, AR?
28.3% of residents in Salem aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Salem?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Salem, AR: median home value is $192,000 (22% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $79,692. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Salem?
The poverty rate in Salem, AR is 2.5%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Salem, AR?
Salem's population is 0.0% White, 2.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 6.5% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 3.5% of residents are foreign-born.