2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Athens, WV vs Salem, VA

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Highlights
Are people in Salem older or younger than people in Athens?
- The Median Age in Salem is 17.3 years older than in Athens.

Are housing costs cheaper in Salem or Athens?
- Salem housing costs are 80.8% more expensive than Athens housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Salem or Athens?
- The average commute for residents of Salem is 2.1 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Athens.

Things to do in Athens?
Athens, WV is a small town nestled in the Appalachian Mountains. It has a population of about 2,500 people and offers a peaceful, tight-knit community with plenty of outdoor activities and beautiful scenery. Residents enjoy a quality of life that comes from living in such a close-knit community, where everyone knows each other and looks out for one another. There is no shortage of things to do and explore in Athens - with plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking and camping, or cultural events like plays and festivals. The cost of living is also very affordable here compared to larger cities nearby. All in all, living in Athens can be an incredibly rewarding experience - one filled with friendly faces and breathtaking views.

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.

 Athens, WVSalem, VAUnited States
 Population  Unlock25,335329,725,481
 Median Income$55,357  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock40.838.4
 Avg. Home Price$144,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.6%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time21.64  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Athens    2 Reviews

Over 15 years ago

I went to Concord College which is now Concord University. I pledged Phi Sigma Phi National Fraternity Phi Mu chapter in 2002, my freshman year. I loved everything about  More

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Over 15 years ago

I went to Concord College which is now Concord University in 2002. I pledged with the Phi Sigma Phi National Fraternity Phi Mu chapter that same year. I loved the town  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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