Salem, IL
Population 7,341 · Illinois
About Salem, IL
Salem is a small community in Illinois with a population of 7,341 residents. The median household income is $57,083 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Salem is 38.2 years.
Housing in Salem has a median home value of $99,800 and median monthly rent of $752. Of the 3,340 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 1,933 owner-occupied and 1,147 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Salem is 2.6% and the poverty rate is 20.1%. 14.8% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 12.4 minutes.
Cost of Living in Salem, IL
Compared to national averages, Salem has a median household income of $57,083 (24% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $99,800, which is 59% below the national median. Monthly rent at $752 is 35% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Salem's income is 24% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 40% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Salem, IL?
Salem offers affordable housing with a median home value of $99,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $752/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.6%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 12.4 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($57,083) that falls below the national average. However, Salem’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Salem has a population of 7,341 with a median age of 38.2 years. Compare Salem with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Salem
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jerseyville | 7,432 | $71,623 | $124,200 | Compare |
| North Riverside | 7,495 | $80,753 | $295,100 | Compare |
| Greenville | 7,159 | $52,727 | $119,800 | Compare |
| West Frankfort | 7,156 | $48,143 | $72,500 | Compare |
| Inverness | 7,541 | $215,810 | $704,100 | Compare |
| Marengo | 7,123 | $72,586 | $206,100 | Compare |
| Sandwich | 7,121 | $77,027 | $239,600 | Compare |
| University Park | 7,109 | $65,580 | $137,800 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Illinois
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Salem
What is the population of Salem, IL?
The population of Salem, IL is 7,341 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Salem?
The median household income in Salem, IL is $57,083 per year.
What is the median home value in Salem?
The median home value in Salem, IL is $99,800.
What is the average rent in Salem?
The median monthly rent in Salem, IL is $752.
What is the unemployment rate in Salem?
The unemployment rate in Salem, IL is 2.6%.