2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Northampton, MA vs Salem, OR

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Salem older or younger than people in Northampton?
- The Median Age in Salem is 5.3 years younger than in Northampton.

Are housing costs cheaper in Salem or Northampton?
- Salem housing costs are 0.8% less expensive than Northampton housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Salem or Northampton?
- The average commute for residents of Salem is 0.1 minutes longer than it is for residents of Northampton.

Things to do in Northampton?
Northampton, MA lies on the banks of the Connecticut River on beautiful Paradise Pond—known locally as “The Valley”—and provides access to hiking trails through Mount Tom State Reservation or kayaking down the river’s rapids in downtown Northampton State Park .

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.

 Northampton, MASalem, ORUnited States
 Population  Unlock174,193329,725,481
 Median Income$72,687  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock35.738.4
 Avg. Home Price$402,400  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.2%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time21.55  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Northampton    6 Reviews

I was born in Northampton in the 1960"s and have lived other places but always came back to live here. My two children were born here too. What draws be back to  More

   |    Reply

The greater Northampton, MA area is generally a pretty good place to live, if you're interested in Western MA or southern New England in general. MA is more affordable  More

   |    Reply

Northampton is a very progressive, diverse, liberal small city where you will find so much to do in just the downtown area alone. Music, shopping, restaurants, bars,  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Northampton

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.