2026 Compare Cities Overview:
Salem, VA vs Fredericksburg, VA

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Highlights
Are people in Fredericksburg older or younger than people in Salem?
- The Median Age in Fredericksburg is 10.1 years younger than in Salem.

Are housing costs cheaper in Fredericksburg or Salem?
- Fredericksburg housing costs are 53.4% more expensive than Salem housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Fredericksburg or Salem?
- The average commute for residents of Fredericksburg is 8.1 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 Fredericksburg?
Fredericksburg, VA is an independent city located about halfway between Richmond and Washington D.C., surrounded by Spotsylvania County. This small town is full of historical sites from the Civil War, such as the famous Fredericksburg Battlefield National Military Park. Visitors can also enjoy the natural beauty of the Rappahannock River or browse the many local shops throughout town.

 Salem, VAFredericksburg, VAUnited States
 Population  Unlock28,027329,725,481
 Median Income$66,472  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock30.738.4
 Avg. Home Price$260,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.1%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time19.57  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Salem    4 Reviews

Over 10 years ago

I am looking for property in  More

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Over 11 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 15 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 Fredericksburg    17 Reviews

Fredericksburg has an undeniably small town charm and an all around appeal that is hard to beat, in the context of its proximity to the larger DC Metro area. The  More

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I have lived in Fredericksburg for over 10 years and love it. The housing prices are affordable and this historic city has so much to offer. Ideal location also situated  More

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Disclaimer right off the top; yes I know there are good people everywhere and some are here as well but Fredericksburg is far from an ideal place to live and here is  More

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