2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Bend, OR vs Salem, OR

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Salem older or younger than people in Bend?
- The Median Age in Salem is 3.1 years younger than in Bend.

Are housing costs cheaper in Salem or Bend?
- Salem housing costs are 40.1% less expensive than Bend housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Salem or Bend?
- The average commute for residents of Salem is 6.3 minutes longer than it is for residents of Bend.

Things to do in Bend?
Bend, Oregon is an incredible city located in central Oregon. It's known for its breathtaking mountain views, diverse culture, and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can take advantage of outdoor activities like exploring Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway or hiking at Lava Lands Visitor Center to explore the local area. Nature enthusiasts can visit places like Deschutes National Forest or High Desert Museum to gain insight into local wildlife. After exploring, sample delicious food from restaurants like Wild Rose or Roost Beer Garden & Pub. With so much to offer, Bend is a fantastic place to visit for an unforgettable experience!

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.

 Bend, ORSalem, ORUnited States
 Population  Unlock174,193329,725,481
 Median Income$74,253  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock35.738.4
 Avg. Home Price$666,200  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.2%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time15.32  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Bend    100 Reviews

I have visited Bend for many years and moved here last year with my family. Every person that complains about Bend does not understand how economics works. The main  More

   |    Reply

Over 4 years ago

When I moved to Bend it was a charming small city of about 50,000 people. The population has now more than doubled and the once clean, quiet community is a noisy, dirty,  More

   |    Reply

Over 4 years ago

I've lived in Bend for 10 years now. I'm originally from a poorer town in CA with the same population as Bend. Here are my pros and cons of living in Bend. Pros: -  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Bend

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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

Over 5 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

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Salem


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.