Salem, MO
Population 4,673 · Missouri
About Salem, MO
Salem is a small community in Missouri with a population of 4,673 residents. The median household income is $39,200 per year, which is below the national average. The median age in Salem is 42 years.
Housing in Salem has a median home value of $97,200 and median monthly rent of $593. Of the 2,325 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 1,034 owner-occupied and 902 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Salem is 4.8% and the poverty rate is 16.6%. 17.2% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 16.8 minutes.
Cost of Living in Salem, MO
Compared to national averages, Salem has a median household income of $39,200 (48% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $97,200, which is 60% below the national median. Monthly rent at $593 is 49% below the US average of $1,163. Within Missouri, Salem's income is 36% below the state average of $61,047, and home values are 36% below the state median of $150,786.
Why Live in Salem, MO?
Salem offers affordable housing with a median home value of $97,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $593/month, and short commute times averaging just 16.8 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($39,200) 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 4,673 with a median age of 42 years. Compare Salem with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Missouri.
Similar Cities Near Salem
Cities in Missouri with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rock Hill | 4,708 | $91,477 | $256,400 | Compare |
| Osage Beach | 4,715 | $52,067 | $286,800 | Compare |
| Crystal City | 4,721 | $64,650 | $169,500 | Compare |
| Centralia | 4,615 | $51,868 | $165,600 | Compare |
| Hollister | 4,608 | $57,778 | $154,900 | Compare |
| Lexington | 4,602 | $70,134 | $153,300 | Compare |
| Butler | 4,594 | $36,276 | $124,100 | Compare |
| North Kansas City | 4,758 | $46,024 | $194,700 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Missouri
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, MO?
The population of Salem, MO is 4,673 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Salem?
The median household income in Salem, MO is $39,200 per year.
What is the median home value in Salem?
The median home value in Salem, MO is $97,200.
What is the average rent in Salem?
The median monthly rent in Salem, MO is $593.
What is the unemployment rate in Salem?
The unemployment rate in Salem, MO is 4.8%.