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

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Bristol older or younger than people in Salem?
- The Median Age in Bristol is 2.6 years older than in Salem.

Are housing costs cheaper in Bristol or Salem?
- Bristol housing costs are 36.6% less expensive than Salem housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Bristol or Salem?
- The average commute for residents of Bristol is 1.5 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 Bristol?
Bristol, Virginia is a charming city that is situated in the Appalachian Mountains. Home to more than 18,000 people, Bristol offers its residents plenty of activities and attractions. With numerous outdoor parks and a vibrant downtown area, it's no wonder that the city was named The Birthplace of Country Music. Bristol also features a variety of festivals such as the Border Bash music festival and Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion. Additionally, the city is home to some historic sites like Steele Creek Park and the Bristol Train Station. With its rich culture and abundance of recreational activities available, Bristol is an amazing place to live.

 Salem, VABristol, VAUnited States
 Population  Unlock16,996329,725,481
 Median Income$66,472  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock43.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$260,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.0%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 Bristol    7 Reviews

Eat and live on the TN side, shop on the VA side.  More

   |    Reply

Over 7 years ago

I’ve lived here my whole life and the crime/drug rate keeps going up. This area is starting to go downhill. Not to mention the property taxes are  More

   |    Reply

Lived here my whole life basically and this place is going downhill. It’s a drug area. Mostly people on meth and pills. I feel like the crime rate just keeps going up.  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Bristol


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.