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

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Highlights
Are people in Alexandria older or younger than people in Salem?
- The Median Age in Alexandria is 3.7 years younger than in Salem.

Are housing costs cheaper in Alexandria or Salem?
- Alexandria housing costs are 126.8% more expensive than Salem housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Alexandria or Salem?
- The average commute for residents of Alexandria is 12.2 minutes longer than it is for residents of Salem.

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.

Things to do in Alexandria?
Alexandria, Virginia is a vibrant city located just outside of Washington, D.C. Home to many historical and cultural attractions such as the George Washington Masonic National Memorial and the Friendship Firehouse Museum, visitors can explore history and culture when visiting Alexandria. There are also plenty of outdoor attractions such as Grist Mill Park and Jones Point Park where visitors can explore nature at its finest. For entertainment, visitors can explore boutique shops and restaurants along with movie theaters and live music clubs. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting night out, Alexandria has something for everyone!

 Salem, VAAlexandria, VAUnited States
 Population  Unlock158,185329,725,481
 Median Income$66,472  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock37.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$260,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time19.57  Unlock26.38
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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Reviews for Alexandria    49 Reviews

Old Town Alexandria is a charming port city, with lovely historic homes, fun restaurants and sweet shops. Its easy proximity to the hustle and bustle of DC offer  More

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Alexandria is different depending on what part of it you are in. There is a huge strata of rich and poor, with a few middle class neighborhoods in between. Old town is  More

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The mailing address in this area is Alexandria, or Engleside. Either way, it's SE Fairfax County between Fort Belvoir and Mount Vernon. The neighborhood has been here  More

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