West Salem, WI
Population 5,268 · Wisconsin
About West Salem, WI
West Salem is a small town located in Wisconsin with a population of 5,268 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $90,991 per year, which is 21% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 40.5 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in West Salem features a median home value of $269,300, which is 10% above the national median of $244,900. This positions West Salem in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,142, 2% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,101 total housing units, 79% are owner-occupied (1,562 units) and 21% are renter-occupied (420 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in West Salem shows an unemployment rate of 3.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 8.9%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in West Salem have an average one-way commute time of 20.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
44.1% of West Salem residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This significantly higher educational attainment rate often correlates with access to knowledge-economy jobs and higher household incomes. The community's demographic composition includes 1.2% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.3% Asian residents, with 1.6% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in West Salem, WI
Compared to national averages, West Salem has a median household income of $90,991 (21% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $269,300, which is 10% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,142 is 2% below the US average of $1,163. Within Wisconsin, West Salem's income is 25% above the state average of $72,579, and home values are 31% above the state median of $205,802.
Why Live in West Salem, WI?
West Salem offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $90,991, well above the national average, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,142/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.0%. Additionally, the city features a well-educated community where 44.1% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 8.9%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 20.1 minutes.
West Salem has a population of 5,268 with a median age of 40.5 years. Compare West Salem with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Wisconsin.
Similar Cities Near West Salem
Cities in Wisconsin with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bristol | 5,196 | $109,917 | $288,800 | Compare |
| Tichigan | 5,173 | $124,821 | $386,600 | Compare |
| Mayville | 5,169 | $66,453 | $184,800 | Compare |
| North Fond du Lac | 5,373 | $61,744 | $144,900 | Compare |
| Prairie du Chien | 5,471 | $52,670 | $152,100 | Compare |
| Lake Wisconsin | 5,051 | $116,053 | $421,500 | Compare |
| Columbus | 5,493 | $74,957 | $225,700 | Compare |
| Richland Center | 5,030 | $51,472 | $137,700 | 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 West Salem With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about West Salem
What is the population of West Salem, WI?
The population of West Salem, WI is 5,268 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Wisconsin.
What is the median household income in West Salem?
The median household income in West Salem, WI is $90,991 per year, which is 21% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in West Salem?
The median home value in West Salem, WI is $269,300, which is 10% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in West Salem?
The median monthly rent in West Salem, WI is $1,142, which is 2% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in West Salem?
The unemployment rate in West Salem, WI is 3.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is West Salem, WI a good place to live?
West Salem offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 5,268 and a median age of 40.5, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is West Salem, WI?
44.1% of residents in West Salem aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in West Salem?
Key cost-of-living indicators for West Salem, WI: median home value is $269,300 (10% above national), median rent is $1,142/month, and median household income is $90,991. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in West Salem?
The poverty rate in West Salem, WI is 8.9%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is West Salem, WI?
West Salem's population is 1.2% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.3% Asian, and 0.1% two or more races. 1.6% of residents are foreign-born.