Home / Select Cities  /  2024 Comparing Portland, ME vs. Salem, OR

2024 Compare Cities Overview:
Portland, ME vs Salem, OR

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Highlights
Are people in Salem older or younger than people in Portland?
- The Median Age in Salem is 1.2 years younger than in Portland.

Are housing costs cheaper in Salem or Portland?
- Salem housing costs are 11.5% less expensive than Portland housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Salem or Portland?
- The average commute for residents of Salem is 2.5 minutes longer than it is for residents of Portland.

Things to do in Portland?
Portland, Maine is a picturesque coastal city located on the shores of Casco Bay. This historic town features an array of attractions for visitors to explore such as the fascinating Victoria Mansion or the charming Portland Lighthouse. Residents here also enjoy plenty of outdoor activities at Back Cove or Willard Beach. With its top-rated schools, thriving businesses, and wide selection of recreational opportunities, it's no wonder why so many people choose to make Portland their home.

Things to do in Salem?
Salem, Oregon is a vibrant city located in the Willamette Valley. With its close proximity to both the ocean and the mountains, Salem offers something for everyone. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy sailing, kayaking, fishing and hiking in nearby parks and forests. The city is also home to a variety of museums and historical sites from the state's rich past, as well as an array of shopping centers, entertainment venues and nightlife hotspots. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or relocating for the long term, Salem has something for everyone.

 Portland, MESalem, ORUnited States
 Population68,063174,193329,725,481
 Median Income$66,109$62,185$69,021
 Median Age36.935.738.4
 Avg. Home Price$451,100$399,000$338,100
 Unemployment Rate5.2%6.2%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time19.1321.6226.38

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Reviews for Portland    35 Reviews

Used to be great before the pandemic. Now people from out of state have ruined it by paying New York prices for real estate site unseen. Why would you live in Maine when  More

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Over 3 years ago

I have never lived here but the lack of Jimmy John’s is depressing and makes me wish I was deceased.  More

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Reggie · 
Over 6 years ago

I found out I was allergic to corn on the cob here. I would give Portland twelve thumbs downs if I could. My friend told me there was a subway here and I thought he  More

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Reviews for Salem    37 Reviews

After reading the reviews here, I had to come write my own. The problem I had with most of the reviews is that most were very opinion-based and seemed to assume everyone  More

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Moved here approx. 4 years ago from SW Michigan, but I've lived in 9 other cities & 5 other states. Salem is a very manageable sized city, with tons of parks, diverse  More

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Over 4 years ago

I'm a native 5th generation Oregonian, so bear in mind that I was born with webs between my toes! Anyway, I used to think it rained too much when I was young. Then I  More

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ZIPS IN PORTLAND, MAINE
04103 04102 04101 04108 04109 04019
ZIPS IN SALEM, OREGON
97301 97302 97304 97306

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