My partner and I are Crime rate is something to consider — Salem sits at 381.0 per 100K. You can expect to pay around $1,323 for rent here. It's changing fast — some good, some not so much. Thanks for reading.
12 upvotes
3 Replies
Matthew Rogers
couldn't agree more
38 upvotes
Ella Thompson
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a marketing manager, 50, moved here 11 years ago from Minneapolis. I've lived in East and North, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The pet-friendliness situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- East: Great for young professionals. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- North: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from Minneapolis, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $50K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.