2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Ashland, VA vs Salem, VA

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Highlights
Are people in Salem older or younger than people in Ashland?
- The Median Age in Salem is 10.3 years older than in Ashland.

Are housing costs cheaper in Salem or Ashland?
- Salem housing costs are 28.3% less expensive than Ashland housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Salem or Ashland?
- The average commute for residents of Salem is 0.7 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Ashland.

Things to do in Ashland?
Living in Ashland, VA is a wonderful experience. The small town has a cozy and friendly atmosphere that makes it a great place to call home. The town boasts plenty of parks and trails for outdoor recreation, and the downtown area offers shopping and dining options for all tastes. With easy access to Richmond or Washington D.C., you can easily explore the surrounding areas with ease. Ashland is also home to many festivals, concerts, and events throughout the year which can make living here even more enjoyable. All in all, Ashland is an ideal place to live that offers something for everyone!

Things to do in Salem?
Salem, Virginia is a charming city located in the Roanoke Valley. With its beautiful natural views and its impressive history, Salem has plenty for visitors to explore. From hiking at Burgess Memorial Park to shopping and dining in downtown Salem, the city offers an array of activities for all ages. The History Museum of Western Virginia showcases photos and artifacts of the area’s past while the O. Winston Link Museum highlights stunning photography by local photographer O. Winston Link. With its small-town charm and diverse attractions, Salem is sure to captivate anyone looking for a unique experience in Virginia’s Blue Ridge region.

 Ashland, VASalem, VAUnited States
 Population  Unlock25,335329,725,481
 Median Income$55,521  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock40.838.4
 Avg. Home Price$363,200  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.6%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time20.3  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Ashland    3 Reviews

Over 13 years ago

Ashland Is by far the best place to live without Living In the city of richmond yes the housing is more but its safer and has THE BEST SCHOOL IN VA. My brother loves his  More

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Where to begin: With a kid in college in this town I have access to all the good and bad opinions. Have you ever heard of Homemades By Suzanne? Great Deli for eat in  More

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Ashland is built around an excellent small liberal arts college, Randolph-Macon College. The school enjoys a great reputation with both Richmond and D.C. offering  More

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Reviews for Salem    4 Reviews

Over 9 years ago

I am looking for property in  More

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Over 10 years ago

When we moved from Glen Allen VA to Salem I had read on here that cost of living including housing was cheaper. Housing is less unless you want a house bigger than 1300  More

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Over 14 years ago

Salem is a lovely town surrounded by the beauty of the Blue Ridge mountains. Spring, Summer and Fall is exceptionally beautiful with moderate climate and lots of  More

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