A bustling state capital with easy access to the rest of Oregon
Serving as Oregon's capital city, Salem is set in the pastoral Willamette Valley, a region known for its scenery, recreation and winemaking. There is plenty to do within city limits, but the biggest reason people move to Salem is the convenient access to other communities and attractions. "Salem is an hour to the beach and an hour to the mountains. It's an hour to Eugene and Portland. It's a hub to get to all the activities Oregon offers in the Willamette Valley," says Shannon Banke, a Realtor with Zenith Realty LLC and longtime area resident. "It's a really nice area, and it's not as busy as Portland. But they can commute there if they work in Portland." The city of 177,000 is located along Interstate 5, which runs north-south through the Willamette Valley and the entire West Coast.
The State Capitol is located downtown, and government jobs comprise nearly 25% of the workforce. The Capitol is open for tours, and the surrounding park offers a scenic spot for a walk or picnic. Other parks around the city range from historic homes to expansive natural areas, and the city's temperate climate makes it easy to enjoy outdoor recreation year-round. Salem's dining scene includes highly rated wineries and breweries and various cultural food options. The city has a thriving arts scene, with museums, galleries and the Pacific Northwest College of Art at Willamette University. With lower-priced homes than Portland, Salem presents a convenient alternative to buyers looking in northwest Oregon.
The State Capitol is located downtown, and government jobs comprise 25% of the workforce.
The Hallie Ford Museum of Art features rotating art exhibits in Downtown Salem.
The Willamette Valley Vineyard is a highly rated winery located in Salem.
The Peter Courtney Minto Island Bridge connects residents to miles of trails.
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A steady housing market in Oregon's capital
Homes east of the Willamette River include bungalows, Craftsmans, Tudor Revivals and ranch-style houses. Neighborhoods like Grant and South Central feature houses from the late 1800s or early 1900s. West Salem has newer developments, with ranch-style and new traditional homes. The median price in the city is $435,000, up just 1% over the past year. Homes typically sell in about 60 days, slower than the national average of 45 days. Banke says the market is more neutral right now; sellers are willing to come down from the asking price, and buyers can wait to find the right house instead of snatching up the first house they can afford. Recent data shows that nearly 36% of homes were sold at asking price, while 34% sold for below asking.
This Victorian-style home can be found nestled in the streets of Downtown Salem.
A quintessential Colonial Revival home in the Grant, Salem neighborhood.
You'll find large modern bungalow homes in West Salem.
Homes east of the Willamette River include bungalows, Craftsmans & Tudor Revivals.
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Wining and dining at local Salem businesses
Salem has several shopping destinations, each with something different to offer. Downtown has several local restaurants, including coffee shops, dive bars, fine dining and burger joints. The few stores downtown include boutiques and furniture stores. Lancaster Drive is a hub for big-box stores like Target, Walmart and Best Buy. It's also home to Willamette Town Center, a large indoor mall with multiple chain stores and a movie theater. The city also has a wide range of cultural dining options, including authentic Mexican and Vietnamese restaurants, many of which are on Lancaster Drive or nearby in the east Salem area. Kuebler Boulevard in South Salem has more chains, including a Costco. Keizer Station is north of town and a popular spot for shopping. "People love Keizer Station. It's the new place to be. It also has a hotel, so if you're coming to check out the area, that's a beautiful place to stay," says Banke. The outdoor shopping center has chains like REI, Michael's and Target. It also has restaurants like In-N-Out Burger, which Banke says constantly has a line of cars waiting.
Just outside of town, the rolling hills of the Willamette Valley are home to popular wineries. The Willamette Valley American Viticultural Area has become world-renowned for its Pinot Noirs, thanks to cool Pacific breezes that give the region a climate similar to Burgundy in France. Wineries like Willamette Valley Vineyards and Bryn Mawr Vineyards offer scenic spots to enjoy a glass or bottle with friends. They have won numerous awards and high ratings from wine magazines.
The Cozy Taberna serves world class Spanish cuisine in Electric Alley.
Sip on bold Pinot Noir's at Willamette Valley Vineyards.
Archive Coffee & Bar slings expertly roasted espresso drinks by day and crafty cocktails by night.
Bo&Vine is a staple for juicy burgers in Downtown Salem.
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Plenty of outdoor recreation in this Pacific Northwest city
Salem has plenty of options for outdoor recreation, with 90 parks covering 2,335 acres. Notable sites include Bush's Pasture Park, the former farmstead of early settler Asahel Bush. The park was also an important site for the native Kalapuya people, who harvested camas, which still grows in the park's fields. The Bush family house is one of several historic buildings around the city now open for tours, while the family barn hosts the Salem Art Association's gallery. Minto-Brown Island Park is a 1,200-acre natural area along the Willamette River with 29 miles of walking and biking trails. The park also has a 30-acre dog park and a nature preserve home to several species of animals. Venturing east of the city will lead to Silver Falls State Park, widely considered the crown jewel of the state parks system. The main attraction here is the 177-foot South Falls, which is just one stop on the Trail of Ten Falls, a 7.2-mile trek through dense forest and a rocky canyon. The park is about 24 miles east of town and has a campground with tent and RV sites. It's just a bit further of a drive east to spots like Santiam State Forest, Detroit Lake and Mt. Jefferson. Lincoln City is a popular coastal town about 58 miles west of Salem with public beach access and state recreation sites.
Bush’s Pasture Park Rose Garden pops with color as spring arrives in South Central.
The Bush family house is one of several historic buildings around the city open for tours.
Minto-Brown Island Park features a large dog park so pups can run in wide-open spaces.
The South Falls in Silver Falls State Park Near Silverton, Oregon.
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Exploring the heritage and history of the Willamette Valley
Several cultural sites and events around the city keep Salem residents busy year-round. In addition to the Bush family house, Deepwood Museum is a historic Queen Anne house with Victorian gardens open for tours. The Willamette Heritage Center details the region's history through historic artifacts and buildings, including three of the oldest houses in the Pacific Northwest. The center also hosts holiday events around Halloween and Christmas. The Oregon State Fair takes place in Salem every August and September, bringing carnival rides, live music, rodeos and monster trucks. When the fair isn't in town, the fairgrounds host events like First Taste Oregon, featuring local wineries and breweries, and a holiday village.
Bush's Pasture Park hosts the Salem Art Fair & Festival in September.
Volunteers create textiles out of wool at the Sheep to Shawl Festival in Salem.
Visitors enjoy the fun rides at the Oregon State Fair in Salem.
Cherry blossoms bloom each spring at Oregon State Capital State Park in Downtown Salem.
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Preparing for the future at Salem-Keizer schools
The Salem-Keizer School District gets a B-minus rating on Niche. The district serves approximately 39,000 students across 65 schools and is the second-largest school district in Oregon. Students can take Spanish Dual Language Immersion courses starting in middle school. The district also offers International Baccalaureate programs for middle and high school students. Willamette University is located in downtown Salem and is the oldest university in the western United States, founded in 1842. It has a total enrollment of about 2,500 students and is known for computer science, business and environmental science programs. It's also home to the Pacific Northwest College of Art and a law school. Chemeketa Community College offers GEDs, industry certifications and associate degrees at its location in Hayesville.
Willamette University is the oldest university in the western United States.
North Salem High School is one of the top schools in the area.
Sprague High School offers AP and Dual Credit courses.
South Salem High offers dual credit courses through Chemeketa Community College.
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Easy access to all of the Willamette Valley
Interstate 5 passes through Salem, making it convenient for commuting through the Willamette Valley. The highway leads about 46 miles north to Portland. "It's a very common commute to make. You just turn on the radio and listen to the news. 101.7 is a news channel, and every seven minutes, they give you a traffic update," says Banke. I-5 also leads south to Eugene and California. The Salem-Willamette Valley Airport has limited commercial flights to Las Vegas and Los Angeles, but the closest major airport is in Portland. To get around the city, the Cherriots bus system has routes that connect nearly every corner of Salem. There are also several bike lanes throughout the city on major roads and smaller streets. Two one-way bridges are the only ways to cross the Willamette River in town, and they often get backed up during rush hour.
Officials create Community Violence Reduction Initiative
According to the Salem Police Department’s 15-year crime trend report, the city’s overall crime rate is less than the national rate. From 2022 to 2023, the city’s rates of violent crime and property crime both decreased. However, incidents of violent crime increased by 35% between 2009 and 2023. While Salem has higher crime rates than nearby cities like Keizer and Dallas, it has lower rates than other cities like Portland and Ontario. City officials and community leaders have organized peace walks in at-risk neighborhoods to increase support and visibility.
Written By
Matthew Atkins
Photography Contributed By
Elizabeth James
Video By
Benjamin Rose
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
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On average, homes in Salem, OR sell after 68 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Salem, OR over the last 12 months is $442,552, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
WOW! Amazing South Salem location & Price! Backs up to park and path with easy access to Liberty Elem. This large corner lot allows for RV Parking space + room for toys. Great possibility for a multi-generational home with Handicap shower/tub. This rare 6 bed home boasts new flooring, paint, molding, fixtures, landscape and includes all appliances! Huge kitchen with pantry and storage throughout.
Custom-built home with exceptional attention to detail. Expansive living areas feature hardwood floors, built-in cabinetry, gas fireplaces, tray ceilings and large picture windows. Standout amenities include a dedicated theater media room with 7.2 surround sound, private home office with built-in desk, whole-home audio system, two storage buildings and an oversized tandem 3-car garage with epoxy
Very motivated sellers offering this beautifully restored (newly painted inside and out) 1905 Victorian home, where character meets modern comfort. Boasting 3 spacious bedrooms (with possibility for more) and 2 updated baths (with updated plumbing) this romantic retreat blends classic craftsmanship with thoughtful renovations throughout. At heart of this home is its large, newly remodeled
WOW! Amazing South Salem location & Price! Backs up to park and path with easy access to Liberty Elem. This large corner lot allows for RV Parking space + room for toys. Great possibility for a multi-generational home with Handicap shower/tub. This rare 6 bed home boasts new flooring, paint, molding, fixtures, landscape and includes all appliances! Huge kitchen with pantry and storage throughout.
Welcome to your dream home in the West Meadows Estates! This elegant, spacious 3-bedroom plus office, 3-bathroom residence boasts vaulted ceilings that create an airy, inviting atmosphere throughout. As you enter, you’ll be greeted by a light-filled open floor plan, perfect for entertaining and everyday living. The gourmet kitchen features modern appliances and ample counter space, seamlessly
Well-maintained, updated 4-bedroom home with open-concept living. Great room opens to dining area and kitchen with granite countertops, eating bar, stainless appliances, gas range, and large pantry. Laundry room with half bath off kitchen; washer and dryer included. Upstairs features vaulted primary suite with walk-in closet and ensuite bath, plus three additional bedrooms and full bath. Vaulted
Beautifully remodeled Stucco 2 bed, 1 bath home in the Englewood neighborhood! Nearly every surface has been updated in the past 3 years, including plumbing, electrical, windows, roof, interior and exterior paint, HVAC, cabinetry, tile, appliances, lighting, and bathroom. Features LVP flooring along with refinished original hardwoods. Enjoy the deck and beautifully landscaped yard with trees,
Classic West Salem beauty w/ a stunning primary on the main! Dramatic tall ceilings & Great room w/ a tall bank of windows overlooking private retreat-like backyard. You'll covet the spacious custom kitchen w/wood cabinets, island & eating area. Hardwood floors & a spacious staircase that wraps up and around to secondary bedrooms w/either a bonus room or very spacious 4th bedroom. Beautiful
Here is the Dual Living Home you have been looking for! Enter the tiled foyer with separate entrances to 2 living spaces. The Main home has a spacious living room with a gas fireplace and wrap around deck. Remodeled Kitchen with lots of storage. Updated primary bath with a soaking tub, separate shower, heated tile floor, and walk in closet. The Family room has a gas log fireplace and built-in
Stylishly decorated and currently operating as a successful Airbnb, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers comfort, charm, and functionality. Vaulted ceilings and an open layout create a light and airy feel, while the eat-in kitchen is perfect for casual meals and entertaining. Enjoy outdoor living on the back deck or gather around the fire pit for cozy evenings. With a 2-car garage and a
Welcome to this spacious and well-located 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offering 2,172 sqft of living space on a generous .31-acre lot, tucked away on a quiet street close to parks, shopping, downtown Salem, and easy I-5 access.The light-filled great room features vaulted ceilings and brand new windows, creating an open and inviting atmosphere. Recent updates include new flooring on the main level, a
Updated home in Nob Hill neighborhood! This 3 bed, 2 bath home offers 1,134 sq ft with beautiful wood floors and a bright interior. 2024 upgrades include a new sewer line, water supply line, full PEX re-pipe, new water heater, and a new patio cover providing peace of mind for years to come. Enjoy a fully fenced yard perfect for pets, play, or relaxing outdoors. Near parks, schools, and shopping.
Move-in ready and thoughtfully designed, this spacious 3,200 square foot home in The Heights of West Salem offers the open layout, vaulted ceilings, and flexible living spaces buyers are searching for. With four bedrooms, three bathrooms, a bonus room, and an inviting outdoor entertaining area, this property delivers the space, functionality, and comfort that define today's most desirable homes
Beautifully maintained South Salem home with 3BR & 1,987 sq. ft. of well-designed living space plus a bonus room ideal for a home office, media room, or guest space. Excellent curb appeal with a manicured yard, oversized driveway, and desirable 3-car garage providing ample parking and storage. Spacious outdoor patio create the perfect setup for entertaining or relaxing year-round. Additional
Beautiful, clean, and well-maintained home. 4 bed, 2.5 bath. Primary bedroom on the main. Stunning updated kitchen with newer cabinets, countertops, and appliances. This home has been extensively and thoughtfully renovated within the last 10 years; nearly every detail has been updated. Extra-wide driveway with room for RV trailer parking. Fully fenced backyard features an in-ground heated pool
Discover our premier apartment community, Eastpark Apartment Homes, in Salem, OR, near Silverton. With delicious restaurants and charming local boutiques just minutes away from this vibrant community, there's always something to explore. Our pet-friendly apartments offer a welcoming space designed for any lifestyle. Take a closer look at everything we have in store for you!
Your search for the perfect home ends here at Northplace Apartment Homes. With a wealth of luxurious amenities, stylish interiors, and inviting leisure spaces, our apartments in Salem, OR offer a sense of comfort and belonging you won't find anywhere else.
Welcome to Gateway Village Apartments, a peaceful hilltop community offering one, two, and three bedroom apartments and townhomes with spacious layouts, vaulted ceilings, in home washer and dryer, and energy efficient appliances. Garage and extra storage options are also available.Enjoy amenities like a seasonal pool, sauna, clubhouse, BBQ and picnic areas, plus pet friendly walking paths
Located in the desirable Faye Wright neighborhood of South Salem, Fox Hollow Apartments offers comfortable and modern 1- and 2-bedroom apartment homes surrounded by natural beauty and everyday convenience. Just minutes from downtown Salem, our community provides easy access to local dining, shopping, entertainment, and nearby universities including Willamette University and Corban
(Summer Special $250 Amazon Gift Card ask for details)Nestled in the heart of Oregon’s capital, three blocks from the Governor’s House, Willamette Terrace Apartments offers a perfect blend of vintage charm and urban energy. This community captures the essence of Salem living, providing a peaceful retreat just steps away from the city's most iconic landmarks. The Willamette River borders
Welcome to Willamette Landing – A Place to Call HomeExperience the perfect blend of elegance, comfort, and scenic beauty at Willamette Landing. Our community offers a variety of beautifully designed apartment homes, thoughtfully crafted to suit your unique lifestyle. Surrounded by breathtaking views, abundant natural sunlight, and luxurious spaces, you'll feel right at home from the
Watch the cloud show over the verdant Willamette Valley from your windows in The Reserve at Hawk’s Ridge Apartments! Our brand-new community offers you a luxurious, comfortable, fashion-forward home design, surrounded by territorial vistas, and only minutes from your priority destinations. Our gated community boasts a pool, a fitness center, a recreation room with a big screen television, and a
Welcome to Encore Apartments in the heart of Salem, OR, where comfort meets convenience. Each apartment is thoughtfully designed and includes features like a built in ice maker, perfect for warm summer days.Enjoy a true sense of community with resident socials, a dedicated dog park for your pets, and inviting outdoor spaces like the propane fire pit. The clubhouse community room is
Discover Liberty Crest Apartments, a premier apartment community in Salem, OR, located in the highly desirable South Salem area.Our brand-new community offers spacious one, two, and three bedroom apartment homes thoughtfully crafted with stylish finishes and contemporary design, offering you a home that’s as comfortable as it is refined.Each apartment features in-unit washers and
Discover Cappella Apartments in South Salem’s Sunnyslope neighborhood. These modern apartment homes feature quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and open, comfortable layouts designed for everyday living.Residents enjoy a fitness center, full size basketball court, fire pit, BBQ area, and electric vehicle charging. Cappella offers a great mix of comfort, convenience, and location.
Acero West Salem in Salem, OR offers spacious one and two-bedroom apartments with modern finishes, in-unit washer and dryer, stainless steel appliances, and private patios or balconies with green landscape views. The gated, pet-friendly community features a seasonal resort-style pool and spa, fully equipped fitness center, indoor and outdoor fireplaces, community lounge with Wi-Fi, and outdoor
Innovative design, exceptional quality and terrific amenities are just some of the features Eola Heights has to offer. From our hilltop location, you can savor territorial views of the Willamette Valley wine country, while enjoying the convenience of living less than four miles from Downtown Salem. The central city has so much to offer — from entertainment to shopping — and for last minute needs,
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