$188,800Average Value$134Average Price per Sq Ft40Homes For Sale
Northeast Ohio’s ‘Little Big City’
Founded by Quakers in the early 1800s, Salem is a small city of about 12,000 people in northeast Ohio. Its claims to fame include the renowned American painter Charles Burchfield and Alan Freed, the DJ who coined the term ‘rock and roll.’ Locally, it’s known as Ohio’s ‘Little Big City,’ a tagline adopted by the city’s tourism board. “I love that because it has everything there that you need, but it doesn’t feel like you’re in a big city,” says lifelong resident and Realtor Kate Oesch. “It’s such a freestanding community. There’s no passing through – you know when you’re in Salem. There are areas of town that still look like a Norman Rockwell painting.”
Salem's city slogan is "Little Big City", as this city has everything residents need with a small town feel.
Salem residents can find local shopping, dining and entertainment options in the walkable downtown district.
1/2
Historic architecture and Salem’s Community Reinvestment Act
“Most of our housing inventory is over 30 years old,” Oesch says. “We have a lot of homes that are turn-of-the-century from the early 1900s, which lends itself to some wonderful architecture and beautiful details but also leads to a lack of energy efficiency, old windows, updates that need to be made. We’d love to have some more new construction.” Salem’s architecture ranges from historic American Foursquare, Tudor and Colonial Revival homes to midcentury ranch-style and split-level homes. According to Oesch, the city’s average sales price is $175,000, and homes priced over $400,000 will take longer to sell as there is less demand for homes at that price point. There are vacant lots for sale in Salem, and the city aims to incentivize new construction. “Within the last two years, the city pushed through with the state a Community Reinvestment Act,” Oesch says. “If you build a home in the city of Salem, there’s a 15-year tax abatement, so the incentive to build in our area is wonderful. For 15 years, the owner only pays real estate taxes on the land.”
Salem has houses that date back as far as the 1830's that give the city a historic touch.
The Salem State Theatre was built in 1922, opening its doors on Thanksgiving day as a movie house.
1/2
Centennial Park, Salem Community Center and the Burchfield Homestead
Salem has over 375 acres of park land and water. The 26-acre Centennial Park is the city’s oldest park, with tennis and basketball courts, baseball fields, disc golf and an Olympic-sized swimming pool. The Salem Community Center (SCC) is a nonprofit rec center with basketball courts, indoor soccer and an indoor pool. “They host a lot of sports tournaments, and they have a Designer Handbag Bingo they do every year that brings in hundreds of attendees,” Oesch says. The event features handbags from designers like Michael Kors, Coach and Kate Spade and raises funds for the SCC Children’s Fitness Center. The famous painter Charles Burchfield grew up in Salem, and those interested in learning about his life can visit the Burchfield Homestead, his childhood home that now operates as a museum.
The Salem Community Center offers a variety of programs and community events for all ages.
Centennial Park, in Salem, encompasses 26 acres of land and includes multiple sport courts, a disc golf course and a playground.
1/2
Salem City School District, Allegheny Wesleyan College and Kent State University at Salem
Salem City School District gets a B-minus rating from Niche, and Salem High School gets a B. “Friday night football games draw in a bunch of people,” Oesch says. “Our football stadium is very nice. That’s a big community event. My boys played football, and I’ll go to games and see people whose kids are all grown up, but they keep going back to the games just to be involved in the community.” The city’s only private school is St. Paul School, a Catholic school for preschool through eighth-grade students. Allegheny Wesleyan College, a private Methodist liberal arts university, is located in Salem. Kent State University has a campus in Salem, which, combined with its East Liverpool campus, offers more than 20 degrees and enrolls over 3,500 students each year.
Kent State University, Salem Campus, brings nationally recognized higher education to Salem.
Salem High School, boasts a score of B on Niche and is ranked as the number 23 best school in the Youngstown area.
1/2
Downtown Salem Partnership and the Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area
“Downtown Salem Partnership does a wonderful job of bringing business to the community,” Oesch says. “They have a farmers market on Broadway from the spring through fall. Vendors come in and sell flowers, produce and honey. You can walk downtown, get a cup of coffee at LiB’s, check out the farmers market, walk around a little bit and get lunch at Heggy’s.” LiB’s is a local coffee shop that also sells breakfast, and Heggy’s is a diner known for its homemade chocolates. She notes that Mike’s Penn Grille is also a community staple, serving seafood and steak in a casual dining room. On Thursdays through Saturdays, downtown Salem is a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area, meaning patrons can walk around with open alcohol containers during downtown events or on regular weekends.
Downtown Salem is a hotbed of activity, thanks to small businesses and the Downtown Salem Partnership.
Downtown Salem is a "Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area", also known as DORA.
1/2
National Weather Service and the Salem Police Department
The Pittsburgh office of the National Weather Service records weather events for Salem and the surrounding region. Since 2020, it has reported tornadoes, wind, hail, heavy snow, flooding, cold fronts and freezing rain. FBI data shows that the Salem Police Department has seen a steady decrease in property crime since 2018, while its violent crime rate has remained about the same. “People love the low crime rates,” Oesch says. “I personally feel safe walking anywhere in Salem at any hour.”
U.S. Route 62, Community Action Rural Transit System and Akron-Canton Airport
Salem is 44 miles southeast of Akron, 67 miles northwest of Pittsburgh and 68 miles southeast of Cleveland. U.S. Route 62 runs through Salem, connecting it to other major thoroughfares. “Salem, compared to some neighboring communities, is one of those where you still can walk to school or the grocery store,” Oesch says. “Compared to Canfield or Poland, where you can’t get across Route 224 without risking your life.” Columbiana County’s Community Action Rural Transit System provides door-to-door transit services that must be scheduled 24 hours in advance. Salem’s closest airport is Akron-Canton Airport, which is 32 miles west in Akron and provides nonstop passenger services to 20 destinations.
Second Saturdays and the Salem Super Cruise
Every month, downtown Salem hosts Second Saturdays, a day to shop from local businesses and explore pop-up events. “Each month has a theme,” Oesch says. “They have a superhero-themed Second Saturday and an art-themed Second Saturday. Alan Freed is from Salem, Ohio, and he was given credit for coining the term ‘rock and roll.’ Freed Fest is held on one of their Second Saturdays.” Freed Fest includes live music throughout downtown, a Rock ‘n’ Stroll bar crawl and falls on the weekend of Salem High School’s all-class reunion. Salem’s signature event is the Salem Super Cruise, a four-day car show at the beginning of June. “That brings in at least $1 million in revenue just for that weekend with all the consumers coming in,” Oesch says.
Written By
Ellen Daly
Photography Contributed By
Tiffany Karla
Video By
Nathan Allen
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
A.J. Allen,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Salem, OH sell after 40 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Salem, OH over the last 12 months is $185,000, up 9% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this tastefully updated Cape Cod nestled in a beautiful wooded setting. Accessed by a shared driveway, the home is situated in a peaceful location overlooking a large stocked pond and surrounded by nature. A spacious outbuilding with electric provides excellent space for storage, hobbies, entertaining, or gatherings. Step inside to an inviting open-concept floor plan filled with
Sophisticated style, effortless one floor living, and an incredible amount of finished space make this custom ranch a standout! Nestled in one of Salem's most desirable neighborhoods, this beautifully maintained 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom home offers over 3,480 square feet of finished living space designed for both everyday comfort and entertaining. The heart of the home is the stunning open concept
Welcome home to this spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bath residence offering over 2,246 square feet of comfortable living space on a beautiful 0.76-acre lot in the highly desirable South Range School District. With room to spread out both inside and out, this property offers the perfect blend of country charm and everyday convenience.The generous floor plan provides ample space for relaxing and
Welcome to Quaker Lane Estate, one of Northeast Ohio’s most extraordinary private estates. Set behind gated entrances on approximately nine private acres, this remarkable Fred Olivieri custom residence—thoughtfully conceived, meticulously crafted with North Shore limestone and Belden brick —blends timeless architecture, exceptional craftsmanship, and unparalleled amenities into a property unlike
Charming 1900 Character Meets Modern Living in Salem! Step inside this beautifully updated two-story home, where historic charm seamlessly blends with contemporary convenience. Built in 1900, this residence proudly showcases its gorgeous original woodwork and architectural detail, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere from the moment you enter. While preserving its timeless character, the home
Remarks: Great Opportunity. Great location. High traffic area with Walmart and Home Depot across the road from the lot. 2 parcels are available. MLS numbers 5016451 and 5015664 can be sold together, adjacent parcels. Total of 2.5 acres. Level/flat land.
Remarks: Great Opportunity. Great location. High traffic area with Walmart and Home Depot across the road from the lot. 2 parcels are available. MLS numbers 5016451 and 5015664 can be sold together, adjacent parcels. Total of 2.5 acres. Level/flat land.
Discover the opportunity to own nearly 5 acres of private, secluded land with endless potential. Tucked away with a peaceful country feel, this unique property offers a rare chance to create your own vision while still being conveniently located near local amenities. The property features an existing prior homesite area and may offer potential access to existing utility infrastructure from
Welcome home to 1001 Beechwood Ave., Salem, Ohio! Nestled on 1.96 beautiful acres, this well-maintained ranch home offers the perfect blend of comfort, functionality, and peaceful country living. The inviting kitchen features beautiful granite countertops, while the appliances are covered under an extended warranty, providing both style and added peace of mind.The spacious finished basement
Strategic 2-Acre Commercial Parcel – East End Salem! Seize this rare opportunity to develop on one of Salem’s most active commercial corridors! This 2-acre parcel is located on the highly desirable east end of town, offering superb visibility and easy access. Positioned among national retailers and local staples—Home Depot, Walmart, Holiday Inn, Giant Eagle, Salem Regional Medical Center, and a
Spacious Colonial HomeColumbiana Co., Perry Twp.Salem CSDLive Onsite With Online Bidding On Real EstateAbsolute auction, all sells to the highest bidder. ONLINE BIDDING BEGINS MONDAY, AUGUST 17, 2026, AT 9:00 AM, AND AUCTION LIVE ON-SITE BIDDING WILL BEGIN Tuesday, August 18, 2026, 5:30 PMWelcome to this spacious, well-built 2-story colonial home situated on 1.14 acres.
Create your legacy on 6.17 acres designed for self-sufficient living and endless possibilities. First time offered since 1972, this extraordinary gentleman’s farm is a rare opportunity to own a truly special property in Green Twp, within the highly regarded South Range School District. Set along a quiet country road and surrounded by sweeping scenic views, setting that offers privacy,
Updated where it matters, this affordable 2-bedroom home offers the peace of mind today's buyers are looking for. The kitchen and bathroom have been refreshed, most windows have been replaced, the furnace is approximately four years old, and the home features copper plumbing, allowing you to move in while adding your own finishing touches over time.Inside you'll find a practical layout with
Villas at Franklin in Salem, Ohio feature single story living at its finest. Each unit features a private attached garage, open floor plans, washer/dryer hook-ups, fully equipped kitchens, wood laminate flooring and more. Located in the heart of Salem near the Salem Community Center and close to major interstates.
Bricker Place Apartments in Salem, Ohio feature single story living at its finest. Each unit features a private attached garage, open floor plans, washer/dryer hook-ups, fully equipped kitchens, wood laminate flooring and more. Located in the heart of Salem near the Salem Community Center and close to major interstates.
Property Id: 17101132 bedroom/2 bath apartment in Salem. 650 sq ft with 1 car attached garage. 1 story, end unit of a tri-plex. Private driveway on quiet road in country setting.
Property Id: 2723513A remodeled Century home with restored woodwork, newly tiled kitchen and bath. New appliances, windows and flooring. Gas heat and new window A/C on each level. Smoke and CO2 detectors. Electronic entry locks. Off street parking on adjacent driveway. Garage space available (one bay $75.00/month, 2 bays $125/month). On site laundry on lower level.A minimum one
493 B Washington:2 bedroom 1 bath. Stove and refrigerator included. Laundry hookups. Rear deck. Tenant pays electric, gas, water, and trash. Tenant completes normal upkeep, mowing lawn, and snow removal. No smoking. No pets.
Located in Salem is this 1 Bed/ 1 Bath first floor apartment. There is a living room, dining area and kitchen that is provided with dishwasher only, which is maintained by tenants. There is a wall A/C Unit in the bedroom and tenant has parking spot in carport. Monthly rent is $700.00 plus tenant pays electric. Water, sewer, trash and landscaping are all included with monthly rent. There is
Newly remodeled colonial in the historical district of Salem. 1st floor laundry and detached 1.5 car garage.Tenants are in the process of buying a house and moving out, showings will begin after that. MUST HAVE PROOF OF INCOME OF AT LEAST $5,000 PER MONTH.
Located in Salem is this 2 Bedroom/1 Bath Ranch Condo that has Central Air! The kitchen includes a stove and refrigerator which the tenant is to maintain. There is a washer and dryer provided which the tenant is also to maintain. This condo has electric heat. Monthly rent is $900.00 plus the tenant pays for the electric and water/sewer services. Landscaping and trash services are included with
Located in Salem is this 1 Bed/ 1 Bath Upper floor Condo that has a 1 car attached garage. The kitchen is provided with a stove, refrigerator, and washer/dryer combo which the tenant is to maintain. There is also an Air conditioning unit. Monthly rent is $825.00 plus the tenant pays electric and water services. There is electric heat in this unit. Trash services are included with monthly rent. A
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
