2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Salem, IL vs Carbondale, IL

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Highlights
Are people in Carbondale older or younger than people in Salem?
- The Median Age in Carbondale is 12.0 years younger than in Salem.

Are housing costs cheaper in Carbondale or Salem?
- Carbondale housing costs are 30.7% more expensive than Salem housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Carbondale or Salem?
- The average commute for residents of Carbondale is 3.4 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Salem.

Things to do in Salem?
Living in Salem, IL is a great place for those looking for an easy going lifestyle. The town has a small-town feel and the people are friendly and welcoming. Residents can enjoy access to a variety of amenities and recreation opportunities, including golf courses, parks, trails, and campgrounds. There are plenty of local restaurants and shops to explore and get to know the community. The schools in Salem are highly rated and offer excellent educational opportunities for children. With its historic architecture, beautiful rural views, and vibrant culture, Salem is an ideal place to call home.

Things to do in Carbondale?
Carbondale, Illinois is a vibrant city located in the heart of Southern Illinois. Visitors will find plenty to do and explore, including popular attractions like the Giant City State Park and Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge. The town boasts a thriving cultural scene with festivals, events, and live music venues all year round. Shopping enthusiasts will enjoy browsing through the abundance of eclectic specialty stores and boutiques. Those looking for outdoor adventure can take part in activities like kayaking or mountain biking at nearby Shawnee National Forest. With its diverse culture and plenty of recreational opportunities, Carbondale is an ideal destination for visitors looking to experience the best that Southern Illinois has to offer.

 Salem, ILCarbondale, ILUnited States
 Population  Unlock22,388329,725,481
 Median Income$51,559  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock24.838.4
 Avg. Home Price$88,900  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.7%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time17.31  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Salem    0 Reviews

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Reviews for Carbondale    7 Reviews

I've lived in C'dale for over 30 years. I got an excellent education here - Giant City School was great, though fairly insular and not very diverse (among its drawbacks  More

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Over 17 years ago

I like Carbondale. It is relaxing and an easy way to go about getting a college degree. It has its ups and downs, mainly with the people in the town not recognizing the  More

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All of the comments are negative here and seem to me to be misleading. The idea that you have to have a lot of money in Carbondale is ridiculous. The price of cultural  More

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