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

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Highlights
Are people in Albany older or younger than people in Salem?
- The Median Age in Albany is 0.2 years older than in Salem.

Are housing costs cheaper in Albany or Salem?
- Albany housing costs are 1.7% less expensive than Salem housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Albany or Salem?
- The average commute for residents of Albany is 1.0 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Salem.

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.

Things to do in Albany?
Albany, OR is a vibrant city nestled in the heart of the Willamette Valley. Situated along the mighty Willamette River, Albany offers pristine natural beauty, a thriving cultural scene, award-winning restaurants and breweries, and much more! It is home to historic sites like The Monteith House Museum and Thomas Kay Woolen Mill, as well as modern attractions such as the Linn County Expo Center and Discovery Garden. With something for everyone from outdoors lovers to art enthusiasts, Albany has something for everyone!

 Salem, ORAlbany, ORUnited States
 Population  Unlock55,776329,725,481
 Median Income$62,185  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock35.938.4
 Avg. Home Price$399,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time21.62  Unlock26.38
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

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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

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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

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Reviews for Albany    25 Reviews

Over 2 years ago

I only lived in Albany 1 year. But I found the weather to be quite Mild. The Housing more affordable than Corvallis. I was shocked to find that nearby Corvallis gets  More

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I've been living in Albany about 4.5 years. Moved up from Southern California to escape high home prices and the cost of living and clogged freeways. Now it's not sunny  More

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Over 4 years ago

Ten months and ongoing in Albany, from the SF Bay Area. Much less crime here, much quieter here, more courteous and sane drivers here by far. We have been able to  More

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