2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Salem, VA vs Virginia Beach, VA

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Highlights
Are people in Virginia Beach older or younger than people in Salem?
- The Median Age in Virginia Beach is 4.1 years younger than in Salem.

Are housing costs cheaper in Virginia Beach or Salem?
- Virginia Beach housing costs are 42.5% more expensive than Salem housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Virginia Beach or Salem?
- The average commute for residents of Virginia Beach is 4.1 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 Virginia Beach?
Virginia Beach, Virginia is a popular summer destination for beachgoers and sun seekers alike. Boasting gorgeous beaches, fantastic boardwalks, and lively nightlife, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant coastal city. Visitors can enjoy the great outdoors with kayaking, paddle boarding or fishing. Or they can explore the many cultural attractions like the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art and The Cavalier Hotel. With its beautiful beaches, stunning views and tons of activities to keep you busy all day long, Virginia Beach is sure to make your next vacation one to remember!

 Salem, VAVirginia Beach, VAUnited States
 Population  Unlock457,658329,725,481
 Median Income$66,472  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock36.738.4
 Avg. Home Price$260,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.8%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 Virginia Beach    95 Reviews

Over 4 years ago

If you lived here prior to 2005, your experience in Virginia Beach is likely between good and wonderful. There are still pros to living here. Other reviews have  More

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Over 6 years ago

I lived in the Hampton Roads area for 11 years while I was in the Navy. It was a bit of a culture shock, since I grew up in a small rural town in Maine with 900 people.  More

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Over 7 years ago

I lived in the Kempsville area of VB growing up and loved it. There's no way to be bored when you have so many public and neighborhood parks, libraries, events,  More

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