2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Salem, VA vs Ruston, LA

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Highlights
Are people in Ruston older or younger than people in Salem?
- The Median Age in Ruston is 16.7 years younger than in Salem.

Are housing costs cheaper in Ruston or Salem?
- Ruston housing costs are 25.0% less expensive than Salem housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Ruston or Salem?
- The average commute for residents of Ruston is 5.4 minutes shorter 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 Ruston?
Ruston, LA Ruston is a city located in Lincoln Parish in Northwest Louisiana. Home to Louisiana Tech University, Ruston offers an array of cultural attractions from museums and art galleries to historical sites dating back to before the Civil War era. Ruston's charming downtown area provides plenty of options for dining and entertainment while its outdoor activities include golf courses, walking trails and more than 16 parks that are perfect for outdoor recreation or simply appreciating nature at its best.

 Salem, VARuston, LAUnited States
 Population  Unlock22,286329,725,481
 Median Income$66,472  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock24.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$260,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.7%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 Ruston    2 Reviews

Over 4 years ago

Back stabbing little town you want get anywhere with out knowing people or have  More

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Very difficult to find a job here if you’re not hired by the university. When my husband got a job with the university, I didn’t think it would be so difficult for me  More

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