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

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Highlights
Are people in Tacoma older or younger than people in Salem?
- The Median Age in Tacoma is 1.0 years older than in Salem.

Are housing costs cheaper in Tacoma or Salem?
- Tacoma housing costs are 13.8% more expensive than Salem housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Tacoma or Salem?
- The average commute for residents of Tacoma is 6.4 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 Tacoma?
Tacoma, Washington is a vibrant city full of opportunities for exploration and recreation. Nature lovers can take advantage of the stunning views from Mount Rainier National Park or explore giant trees at Point Defiance Park. History buffs can visit the Museum of Glass to learn about the area's unique glass culture or explore the local history at Fort Nisqually Living History Museum. Art enthusiasts can join a painting class at Spaceworks Gallery or attend an art exhibit at Tacoma Art Museum. Foodies will love browsing through dozens of eateries and breweries in the city while shoppers can find some great deals at Tacoma Mall. With its wide variety of attractions, Tacoma is sure to have something for everyone!

 Salem, ORTacoma, WAUnited States
 Population  Unlock217,332329,725,481
 Median Income$62,185  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock36.738.4
 Avg. Home Price$399,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.3%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 Tacoma    40 Reviews

I've lived in Tacoma for 3.5 years and love it! It's not a perfect city, nowhere is perfect and Tacoma does have its' share of problems, but overall have found T-Town  More

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Over 4 years ago

We LOVE tacoma. Grew up in Seattle, and tacoma is so much better! Easy access to the water, hiking, and Mt Rainier and the Olympics. We love the coffee shops and  More

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Over 5 years ago

Having lived over half my life here I can tell you real friends are few and far between. You will go through many and only have a handful who stick with you. Your  More

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