2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Salem, VA vs Boston, MA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Boston older or younger than people in Salem?
- The Median Age in Boston is 8.2 years younger than in Salem.

Are housing costs cheaper in Boston or Salem?
- Boston housing costs are 152.2% more expensive than Salem housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Boston or Salem?
- The average commute for residents of Boston is 10.9 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 Boston?
Boston, Massachusetts is a bustling metropolitan city with plenty to offer. From the renowned Freedom Trail and Fenway Park to the scenic Charles River and Beacon Hill, visitors of all ages will find something to do in this historic city. Tour Harvard University or take a walk through the cobblestone streets of Beacon Hill and see why it's known as one of America's most charming cities. From art and history museums to sports venues and delicious seafood restaurants, Boston has it all for anyone looking for an unforgettable experience.

 Salem, VABoston, MAUnited States
 Population  Unlock672,814329,725,481
 Median Income$66,472  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock32.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$260,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.2%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time19.57  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Salem    4 Reviews

Over 9 years ago

I am looking for property in  More

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Salem

Reviews for Boston    122 Reviews

Over 2 years ago

health care in the country, plenty of jobs, gorgeous architecture, cool neighborhoods, lots of great restaurants, and always something to do. The beautiful coast, the  More

   |    Reply

I've lived in/near Boston my whole life almost. It has many pros such as a big city feel, extremely safe, reliable train transportation, great food. However any pro  More

   |    Reply

I moved to MA from the country of Georgia in eastern Europe. Then traveled quite a bit in the U.S. Boston definitely has its own flavor. Suburbs offer okay schools,  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Boston


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.