Salem, NY
Population 914 · New York
About Salem, NY
Salem is a small community located in New York with a population of 914 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $76,993 per year, which is 2% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 43.5 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 $160,900, which is 34% 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 $893, 23% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 466 total housing units, 77% are owner-occupied (312 units) and 23% are renter-occupied (95 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Salem shows an unemployment rate of 14.2%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 3.0%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Salem have an average one-way commute time of 26 minutes.
Education & Demographics
24.2% 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, 0.4% Hispanic or Latino, 1.0% Black or African American, and 0.2% Asian residents, with 0.8% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Salem, NY
Compared to national averages, Salem has a median household income of $76,993 (2% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $160,900, which is 34% below the national median. Monthly rent at $893 is 23% below the US average of $1,163. Within New York, Salem's income is 21% below the state average of $96,987, and home values are 58% below the state median of $387,181.
Why Live in Salem, NY?
Salem offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $76,993, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $160,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $893/month. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 3.0%, better than the national average.
Salem has a population of 914 with a median age of 43.5 years. Compare Salem with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New York.
Similar Cities Near Salem
Cities in New York with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Portville | 915 | $59,917 | $99,000 | Compare |
| Walworth | 908 | $89,844 | $151,300 | Compare |
| Belmont | 903 | $62,266 | $89,800 | Compare |
| Amenia | 928 | $82,781 | $269,200 | Compare |
| Lake George | 928 | $52,411 | $302,300 | Compare |
| Woodsburgh | 900 | $250,001 | $1,653,800 | Compare |
| Rosendale | 898 | $61,375 | $250,300 | Compare |
| Schroon Lake | 898 | $67,188 | $252,200 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in New York
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, NY?
The population of Salem, NY is 914 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in New York.
What is the median household income in Salem?
The median household income in Salem, NY is $76,993 per year, which is 2% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Salem?
The median home value in Salem, NY is $160,900, which is 34% 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, NY is $893, which is 23% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Salem?
The unemployment rate in Salem, NY is 14.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Salem, NY a good place to live?
Salem offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 914 and a median age of 43.5, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Salem, NY?
24.2% 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, NY: median home value is $160,900 (34% below national), median rent is $893/month, and median household income is $76,993. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Salem?
The poverty rate in Salem, NY is 3.0%, 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, NY?
Salem's population is 0.0% White, 0.4% Hispanic or Latino, 1.0% Black or African American, 0.2% Asian, and 3.6% two or more races. 0.8% of residents are foreign-born.