Salem Lakes, WI
Population 14,521 · Wisconsin
About Salem Lakes, WI
Salem Lakes is a mid-sized city located in Wisconsin with a population of 14,521 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $94,554 per year, which is 26% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 44.4 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 Lakes features a median home value of $281,500, which is 15% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Salem Lakes in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,132, 3% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 6,199 total housing units, 86% are owner-occupied (4,982 units) and 14% are renter-occupied (837 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Salem Lakes shows an unemployment rate of 4.6%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 6.0%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Salem Lakes have an average one-way commute time of 32.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
27.8% of Salem Lakes 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 4.9% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, and 2.3% Asian residents, with 4.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Salem Lakes, WI
Compared to national averages, Salem Lakes has a median household income of $94,554 (26% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $281,500, which is 15% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,132 is 3% below the US average of $1,163. Within Wisconsin, Salem Lakes's income is 30% above the state average of $72,579, and home values are 37% above the state median of $205,802.
Why Live in Salem Lakes, WI?
Salem Lakes offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $94,554, well above the national average, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,132/month, and a low poverty rate of 6.0%, better than the national average.
Salem Lakes has a population of 14,521 with a median age of 44.4 years. Compare Salem Lakes with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Wisconsin.
Similar Cities Near Salem Lakes
Cities in Wisconsin with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Verona | 14,499 | $119,148 | $382,800 | Compare |
| Chippewa Falls | 14,643 | $62,133 | $194,800 | Compare |
| Greendale | 14,656 | $95,015 | $289,600 | Compare |
| Whitefish Bay | 14,750 | $154,255 | $498,700 | Compare |
| Waunakee | 14,927 | $128,750 | $490,300 | Compare |
| Hudson | 15,004 | $97,036 | $355,000 | Compare |
| Allouez | 14,023 | $90,035 | $217,100 | Compare |
| Plover | 13,713 | $83,139 | $244,500 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Wisconsin
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Salem Lakes With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Salem Lakes
What is the population of Salem Lakes, WI?
The population of Salem Lakes, WI is 14,521 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Wisconsin.
What is the median household income in Salem Lakes?
The median household income in Salem Lakes, WI is $94,554 per year, which is 26% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Salem Lakes?
The median home value in Salem Lakes, WI is $281,500, which is 15% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Salem Lakes?
The median monthly rent in Salem Lakes, WI is $1,132, which is 3% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Salem Lakes?
The unemployment rate in Salem Lakes, WI is 4.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Salem Lakes, WI a good place to live?
Salem Lakes offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 14,521 and a median age of 44.4, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Salem Lakes, WI?
27.8% of residents in Salem Lakes 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 Lakes?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Salem Lakes, WI: median home value is $281,500 (15% above national), median rent is $1,132/month, and median household income is $94,554. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Salem Lakes?
The poverty rate in Salem Lakes, WI is 6.0%, 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 Lakes, WI?
Salem Lakes's population is 4.9% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, 2.3% Asian, and 0.8% two or more races. 4.2% of residents are foreign-born.