2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Sanford, NC vs Salem, VA

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Highlights
Are people in Salem older or younger than people in Sanford?
- The Median Age in Salem is 6.3 years older than in Sanford.

Are housing costs cheaper in Salem or Sanford?
- Salem housing costs are 0.5% less expensive than Sanford housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Salem or Sanford?
- The average commute for residents of Salem is 3.0 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Sanford.

Things to do in Sanford?
Sanford, NC is a small town located in Lee County that offers its citizens a unique mix of urban amenities and rural settings. Residents have access to a variety of activities such as biking, fishing, hiking, and camping.

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.

 Sanford, NCSalem, VAUnited States
 Population  Unlock25,335329,725,481
 Median Income$51,311  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock40.838.4
 Avg. Home Price$261,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.6%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time22.61  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Sanford    1 Reviews

Over 11 years ago

It's pretty affordable and safe place to live. I do not yet have school aged children but I understand the education is not the best here. But it is nice, quiet,  More

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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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