2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Salem, OR vs Elma, WA

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Highlights
Are people in Elma older or younger than people in Salem?
- The Median Age in Elma is 6.0 years older than in Salem.

Are housing costs cheaper in Elma or Salem?
- Elma housing costs are 18.5% less expensive than Salem housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Elma or Salem?
- The average commute for residents of Elma is 4.2 minutes longer 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 Elma?
Elma, WA is a small rural community located in the Pacific Northwest. It is surrounded by lush evergreen forests, rolling hills and rivers, making it a picturesque place to live. The town is home to around 3,000 people who enjoy the friendly atmosphere of this close-knit community. The climate here is mild with cool winters and warm summers, offering an ideal environment for outdoor recreation such as hiking, camping, fishing and more. Residents of Elma have access to excellent healthcare facilities, educational opportunities for all ages and plenty of shopping options. The local economy is largely based on logging and farming but there are also many other businesses that provide employment opportunities in the area. Overall, life in Elma can be a peaceful and enjoyable experience for those who call this beautiful area their home.

 Salem, ORElma, WAUnited States
 Population  Unlock3,390329,725,481
 Median Income$62,185  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock41.738.4
 Avg. Home Price$399,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock8.8%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 Elma    3 Reviews

Over 10 years ago

I was somewhat amused to olred's view of Elma, WA. We just moved here a few months ago from NV and have enjoyed it. I'm not sure after NV whether I will like 70 inches  More

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If you know what is good for you, stay away from Grays Harbor! Elma especially, the drugs are rampant here, the crime rate is outrageous! The town of elma is primarily a  More

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Over 18 years ago

Elma is centrally located between the state capitol Olympia, WA and the Cities of MOntesano and Aberdeen. It is also only 80 miles from Seattle and Ocean Shores. Elma is  More

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