Salem, MA
Population 44,241 · Massachusetts
About Salem, MA
Salem is a mid-sized city in Massachusetts with a population of 44,241 residents. The median household income is $85,137 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Salem is 38.5 years.
Housing in Salem has a median home value of $497,400 and median monthly rent of $1,800. Of the 21,000 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 10,163 owner-occupied and 9,626 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Salem is 5.2% and the poverty rate is 13.7%. 49.6% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 29.9 minutes.
How Salem Ranks in Massachusetts
Cost of Living in Salem, MA
Compared to national averages, Salem has a median household income of $85,137 (13% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $497,400, which is 103% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,800 is 55% above the US average of $1,163. Within Massachusetts, Salem's income is 19% below the state average of $105,630, and home values are 11% below the state median of $561,296.
Why Live in Salem, MA?
Salem offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $85,137, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 49.6% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $497,400. However, Salem’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Salem has a population of 44,241 with a median age of 38.5 years. Compare Salem with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Massachusetts.
Similar Cities Near Salem
Cities in Massachusetts with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leominster | 43,697 | $81,556 | $345,000 | Compare |
| Pittsfield | 43,559 | $68,386 | $233,700 | Compare |
| Arlington | 46,015 | $141,440 | $885,000 | Compare |
| Beverly | 42,408 | $103,739 | $621,900 | Compare |
| Attleboro | 46,499 | $93,266 | $409,100 | Compare |
| Fitchburg | 41,633 | $70,659 | $295,500 | Compare |
| Marlborough | 41,398 | $95,047 | $485,400 | Compare |
| Woburn | 41,205 | $107,754 | $641,800 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Massachusetts
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, MA?
The population of Salem, MA is 44,241 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Salem?
The median household income in Salem, MA is $85,137 per year.
What is the median home value in Salem?
The median home value in Salem, MA is $497,400.
What is the average rent in Salem?
The median monthly rent in Salem, MA is $1,800.
What is the unemployment rate in Salem?
The unemployment rate in Salem, MA is 5.2%.