Salem, OH
Population 11,805 · Ohio
About Salem, OH
Salem is a mid-sized city located in Ohio with a population of 11,805 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $50,250 per year, which is 33% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 40.6 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Salem features a median home value of $117,400, which is 52% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Salem one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $771, 34% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 5,753 total housing units, 58% are owner-occupied (2,986 units) and 42% are renter-occupied (2,123 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Salem shows an unemployment rate of 5.1%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 19.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Salem have an average one-way commute time of 21.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
19.8% of Salem residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 1.2% White, 2.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 1.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Salem, OH
Compared to national averages, Salem has a median household income of $50,250 (33% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $117,400, which is 52% below the national median. Monthly rent at $771 is 34% below the US average of $1,163. Within Ohio, Salem's income is 30% below the state average of $71,814, and home values are 33% below the state median of $174,449.
Why Live in Salem, OH?
Salem offers affordable housing with a median home value of $117,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $771/month, and short commute times averaging just 21.9 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($50,250) 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 11,805 with a median age of 40.6 years. Compare Salem with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Ohio.
Similar Cities Near Salem
Cities in Ohio with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Franklin | 11,670 | $58,134 | $170,800 | Compare |
| Seven Hills | 11,628 | $95,313 | $239,600 | Compare |
| Bucyrus | 11,619 | $53,169 | $122,000 | Compare |
| Norton | 11,576 | $87,060 | $181,900 | Compare |
| Finneytown | 12,079 | $78,494 | $184,200 | Compare |
| Dent | 12,097 | $82,635 | $258,600 | Compare |
| Macedonia | 12,142 | $108,059 | $294,500 | Compare |
| Mack | 11,444 | $118,825 | $287,500 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Ohio
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, OH?
The population of Salem, OH is 11,805 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Ohio.
What is the median household income in Salem?
The median household income in Salem, OH is $50,250 per year, which is 33% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Salem?
The median home value in Salem, OH is $117,400, which is 52% 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, OH is $771, which is 34% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Salem?
The unemployment rate in Salem, OH is 5.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Salem, OH a good place to live?
Salem offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 11,805 and a median age of 40.6, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Salem, OH?
19.8% 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, OH: median home value is $117,400 (52% below national), median rent is $771/month, and median household income is $50,250. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Salem?
The poverty rate in Salem, OH is 19.2%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Salem, OH?
Salem's population is 1.2% White, 2.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 1.5% of residents are foreign-born.