Salem Living Resources
Everything you need to know about life in Salem, Oregon
Living in Salem, Oregon
Salem offers an exceptional quality of life as Oregon's capital city. With stable employment, excellent schools, and beautiful natural surroundings, Salem provides an ideal environment for families, professionals, and retirees alike.
Education & Schools
Public Schools
- • Salem-Keizer School District
- • Highly rated elementary schools
- • Strong middle and high schools
- • Advanced placement programs
Higher Education
- • Willamette University
- • Chemeketa Community College
- • Western Oregon University (nearby)
- • Professional development programs
Employment & Economy
Salem's economy is anchored by stable, recession-resistant employment sectors:
- State Government: Largest employer with thousands of positions
- Healthcare: Salem Health and other medical facilities
- Education: Schools and universities provide steady employment
- Manufacturing: Diverse manufacturing base
- Agriculture: Willamette Valley farming and wine industry
Recreation & Entertainment
Outdoor Activities
- • Minto-Brown Island Park
- • Willamette River activities
- • Cascades foothills hiking
- • Oregon Coast access (1 hour)
Cultural Attractions
- • Oregon State Capitol tours
- • Historic downtown district
- • Museums and galleries
- • Performing arts venues
Shopping & Dining
Salem offers diverse shopping and dining options:
- Downtown Salem: Local boutiques, restaurants, and cafes
- Shopping Centers: Lancaster Mall, Woodburn Premium Outlets
- Farmers Markets: Weekly farmers markets with local produce
- Wine Country: Willamette Valley wineries and tasting rooms
Transportation & Accessibility
Getting Around Salem
- • Salem-Keizer Transit public transportation
- • Bike-friendly streets and trails
- • Interstate 5 access for regional travel
- • Portland commuter options (1 hour drive)
- • McNary Field regional airport
Cost of Living
Salem offers excellent value compared to larger Oregon cities:
- Housing: Significantly lower than Portland metro area
- Property Taxes: Moderate rates around 1.1% of assessed value
- Income Tax: Oregon state income tax applies
- Sales Tax: No state sales tax
- Utilities: Reasonable costs for electricity and water
Healthcare & Services
Salem provides excellent healthcare and professional services:
- Salem Health: Regional medical center with full services
- Specialty Care: Cardiology, oncology, and surgical specialties
- Mental Health: Community mental health resources
- Emergency Services: Well-equipped police and fire departments
Climate & Weather
Salem enjoys a mild Pacific Northwest climate:
- Summer: Warm, dry weather (70-80°F)
- Winter: Cool, wet season (40-50°F)
- Spring/Fall: Mild temperatures with occasional rain
- Annual Rainfall: About 40 inches per year
Community & Lifestyle
Salem's community offers small-town charm with urban amenities:
- Family-Friendly: Safe neighborhoods and excellent schools
- Professional Opportunities: Government and private sector careers
- Outdoor Lifestyle: Easy access to parks, trails, and recreation
- Cultural Events: Festivals, concerts, and community celebrations