2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Chattanooga, TN vs Salem, VA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Salem older or younger than people in Chattanooga?
- The Median Age in Salem is 4.1 years older than in Chattanooga.

Are housing costs cheaper in Salem or Chattanooga?
- Salem housing costs are 4.8% less expensive than Chattanooga housing costs.

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

Things to do in Chattanooga?
Chattanooga, Tennessee is an exciting city full of culture and history. Visitors can explore the majestic Lookout Mountain or take a stroll along the banks of the Tennessee River. The Hunter Museum of American Art is a great spot to check out local artwork while the historic Bluff View Art District is perfect for those who want to go sightseeing. There's plenty of outdoor activities as well - from hiking in the nearby mountains to boating on the lake. With its unique attractions, vibrant nightlife and stunning scenery, Chattanooga makes for a great vacation destination!

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.

 Chattanooga, TNSalem, VAUnited States
 Population  Unlock25,335329,725,481
 Median Income$50,437  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock40.838.4
 Avg. Home Price$273,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.6%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time18.84  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Chattanooga    60 Reviews

Over 4 years ago

Moved to Chattanooga from the San Francisco Bay area. It was a hard one but after losing much in the 2017, 2018, 2019 annual wildfire festival of California I got tired  More

   |    Reply

I feel like the crime in Chattanooga gets glossed over in most reviews. Lived here virtually my entire life and I will truly miss the golden sunrises against the  More

   |    Reply

I live in nearby Cleveland TN where I have lived for 20 years. I like to shop and visit Chattanooga as there is a lot to do but they do have a very high crime rate.   More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Chattanooga

Reviews for Salem    4 Reviews

Over 9 years ago

I am looking for property in  More

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

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

   |    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.