2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Salem, VA vs Washington, DC

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Washington older or younger than people in Salem?
- The Median Age in Washington is 6.5 years younger than in Salem.

Are housing costs cheaper in Washington or Salem?
- Washington housing costs are 147.8% more expensive than Salem housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Washington or Salem?
- The average commute for residents of Washington is 10.5 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 Washington?
Washington D.C. is a vibrant city full of history and culture. Visit the iconic landmarks like the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, or the Smithsonian Museums - all within walking distance of each other. Explore famous monuments such as The Washington Monument or take a tour of Capitol Hill and experience our nation's political history firsthand. With its dynamic nightlife scene, world-class restaurants, and abundance of art and cultural institutions, Washington D.C. has something to offer every kind of traveler!

 Salem, VAWashington, DCUnited States
 Population  Unlock683,154329,725,481
 Median Income$66,472  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.338.4
 Avg. Home Price$260,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.0%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 Washington    97 Reviews

Over 4 years ago

Living in DC long term brings on a kind of insidious misery. A long, slow, simmering down of any natural optimism or desire for a better future. It’s a leach of a town  More

   |    Reply

Over 5 years ago

Parts are beautiful but alot is rundown and ghetto. They always show the monuments and upper nw neighborhoods but never show hoods across the Anacostia River. Crime is  More

   |    Reply

Moved to DC 40 years ago from Mpls-St. Paul. DC is an amazing town. Downside is people are very competitive, everything is expensive. Great restaurants, foodie heaven  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Washington


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.