Salem, IA
Population 363 · Iowa
About Salem, IA
Salem is a small community in Iowa with a population of 363 residents. The median household income is $59,583 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Salem is 48.2 years.
Housing in Salem has a median home value of $75,000 and median monthly rent of $850. Of the 155 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 124 owner-occupied and 25 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Salem is 1.7% and the poverty rate is 10.2%. 5.2% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 25.8 minutes.
Cost of Living in Salem, IA
Compared to national averages, Salem has a median household income of $59,583 (21% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $75,000, which is 69% below the national median. Monthly rent at $850 is 27% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Salem's income is 12% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 43% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Salem, IA?
Salem offers affordable housing with a median home value of $75,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $850/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.7%. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 10.2%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($59,583) 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 363 with a median age of 48.2 years. Compare Salem with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Salem
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Iowa
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, IA?
The population of Salem, IA is 363 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Salem?
The median household income in Salem, IA is $59,583 per year.
What is the median home value in Salem?
The median home value in Salem, IA is $75,000.
What is the average rent in Salem?
The median monthly rent in Salem, IA is $850.
What is the unemployment rate in Salem?
The unemployment rate in Salem, IA is 1.7%.