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

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Highlights
Are people in Salem older or younger than people in Roanoke?
- The Median Age in Salem is 2.8 years older than in Roanoke.

Are housing costs cheaper in Salem or Roanoke?
- Salem housing costs are 15.4% more expensive than Roanoke housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Salem or Roanoke?
- The average commute for residents of Salem is 1.3 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Roanoke.

Things to do in Roanoke?
Roanoke, Virginia is a beautiful and vibrant city located in the Roanoke Valley. With attractions like Mill Mountain Park, Explore Park and the Science Museum of Western Virginia, there are plenty of outdoor activities to keep visitors entertained. History buffs can explore attractions such as the Roanoke Star or the O. Winston Link Museum to gain insight into the region's vast history. After exploring, take advantage of delicious food from local restaurants like The River & Rail or The Roanoker Restaurant. With so much to offer, Roanoke is an excellent destination for an unforgettable experience!

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.

 Roanoke, VASalem, VAUnited States
 Population  Unlock25,335329,725,481
 Median Income$48,476  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock40.838.4
 Avg. Home Price$225,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.6%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time20.84  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Roanoke    44 Reviews

Over 3 years ago

I’ve lived in Roanoke for 15 years, so I hope this comment can help those planning on moving here. Roanoke isn’t bad if you consider Roanoke county and Salem. Sure,  More

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I've lived here from 2 years and, goddamn, these people are stupid af. If I here coronavirus is a hoax and and fat people making comments at me for wearing a damn mask  More

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I was born and raised in Roanoke County (Oak Grove subdivision), departing in 1989 for a job in Texas. So my perspective on the area is dated, but might be valuable as  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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