312 movers in Salem
What to know when moving to Salem, VA
TL;DR: Salem at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A city where 30% of residents hold a bachelor's degree and 28.3% are renters.
- The Major Draw:
- Median household income is $72,691, providing a solid financial base.
- The Reality Check:
- Only 0.3% of residents use public transit, so budgeting for a car is wise.
- Top Tip:
- Expect median rent around $1,058 per month.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Salem has a population of about 38,249, with a mix of homeowners and renters. Approximately 28.3% of residents are renters, which indicates a community that accommodates both long-term residents and newcomers alike. With 30% of the population holding a bachelor's degree, the area leans towards being well-educated. However, with only 0.3% relying on public transportation, you should plan on having a car for commuting and errands.
Probably not your spot if: you prefer areas with robust public transit options.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $1,058, which is quite reasonable for the area.
- Median owner-occupied home value is $251,400, making homeownership an attainable goal.
- 30% of the population has a bachelor's degree, contributing to a well-educated community.
- The poverty rate stands at 10.1%, indicating a stable economic environment.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In Virginia, the crime rates show a downward trend in several categories, indicating improvements in overall safety.
- Violent crime rate is 203.3 per 100,000 residents, which is 37.5% lower than the national average.
- Property crime rate stands at 1,346.3 per 100,000, which is 13% below the national rate.
- The homicide rate has dropped by 43.2% since 2022, now at 4.2 per 100,000 residents.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Virginia).
Schools & Higher Ed
Salem has access to several educational institutions both within the city and in nearby areas.
- Total postsecondary institutions: 7
- Prominent local options include American National University and Roanoke College.
- Nearby institutions include Virginia Western Community College and Hollins University in Roanoke.
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Salem receives about 33.5 inches of precipitation annually, with 118 rainy days each year. The area experiences 4 days of snow, making for a mild winter. Noteworthy outdoor spots for residents include Mill Mountain Park, rated 4.7 with over 3,359 reviews, and the Virginia Museum of Transportation, which has a rating of 4.7 based on 1,879 user reviews.
- Mill Mountain Park
- Virginia Museum of Transportation
- Green Hill Park
- McAfee Knob Trailhead
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
