A quiet community on the west side of the Oregon state capital
Located on the opposite side of the Willamette River from downtown, West Salem is a sprawling suburban neighborhood that offers a peaceful lifestyle without compromising convenience. "I like that it's quieter and cleaner. It's out of the way as well. It's just a nice spot," says Sean Severson, a West Salem resident and Digital Marketing & IT Manager at Travel Salem. "I also like Orchard Heights Park. I go there to play tennis or walk around. It's close enough to hit my favorite downtown restaurants." The Center Street Bridge crosses the Willamette River, connecting West Salem to the local businesses downtown. However, crossing the river is rarely necessary with highly rated restaurants, grocery stores and parks in the community. Add in easy access to some of the most popular wineries in the Willamette Valley, and West Salem becomes a well-rounded neighborhood that can appeal to homebuyers of all interests.
Wallace Marine Kayak Launch in West Salem is on the Willamette River.
Wallace Marine Park connects West Salem to downtown via the Union Street Bridge.
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A blend of cuisines in West Salem
Several local restaurants offer a vibrant selection of food. Xicha Brewing (pronounced CHEE-cha) is one of the only Latine breweries in the Pacific Northwest and incorporates that heritage into its products. The brewery is known for the Chela Mexican lager but offers other beers like dark lagers, IPAs and wheat beers. The food menu consists of dishes like barbacoa tacos, Cuban sandwiches and empanadas. Checkpoint 221 is a food truck court that is a favorite of Severson's, serving Thai, Greek, Indian and Mexican food, among others. There are several more local options across the river in Downtown Salem, and Wallace Road is lined with fast-food chains. Roth's offers a full supermarket selection, including fresh and locally grown items. More groceries are available at the Safeway on Edgewater Street. Other shopping in the neighborhood includes hardware stores, pet supply shops and Reader's Guide, a used bookstore.
Stop by Xicha Brewing for amazing food choices including this tacos.
McMenamin's Thompson Brewery & Public House has delicious food minutes from West Salem.
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Exploring Oregon wine country in the Willamette Valley
West Salem is in the heart of the Willamette Valley American Viticultural Area, a wine-growing region that is world-famous for its Pinot Noirs. The proximity to the Pacific coast offers a cool climate, with ocean winds blowing through the Oregon Coast Range and into the valley. Several wineries are located around West Salem, including Bryan Mawr. Meaning "large hill" in Welsh, this 26-acre vineyard focuses on Pinot Noir but also produces Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc and Riesling. Redhawk is another hilltop vineyard, this one offering eastward views across the valley to Mount Hood. Other nearby wineries include Bethel Heights and West Hills.
The Giant Globe is just across the bridge from West Salem.
West Salem has great food, great schools, low crime and may be your next place to live.
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Established suburban homes throughout West Salem
West Salem has various housing styles from the mid to late 1900s. The neighborhood's east side is the older section, with Craftsman homes and cottages from the 1940s and 1950s. Everything west of here includes midcentury modern ranch-style houses, contemporary Craftsmans and new traditional homes from the 1990s to the present. Most streets have sidewalks, and the median lot size is under a quarter acre. A mix of leafy trees and towering pines line the streets, offering shade and natural scenery. The neighborhood is hilly, which Severson says makes driving difficult when snow or ice storms hit the city. Three-bedroom homes typically cost between $400,000 and $600,000, while houses with four or more bedrooms cost between $500,000 and $800,000.
Ranch-style homes can be found dotting the landscape in West Salem.
Homes range in size from Ranch-style up to Craftsman and Contemporary.
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Salem city parks offer natural recreation in the neighborhood
Orchard Heights Park is the main green space for the neighborhood. The park has a large walking trail through developed and natural areas, including a creek crossing through the woods. The tennis and pickleball courts are full of local players on any given morning, while the dog park and playground attract dog owners and children. The park also has two baseball fields and a basketball court. Severson says floating the Willamette River is a popular activity in the warmer months, and there is a kayak launch at Wallace Marine Park. Multiple undeveloped parks, such as Straub Nature Park, have trails through wooded areas for a quick escape from the city.
Wallace Marine Park is located in West Salem, Oregon.
Wallace Marine Park is a fun spot for families to hang out in West Salem.
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Highly rated local schools in West Salem
Chapman Elementary School serves the neighborhood and receives a B-plus rating from Niche. Straub Middle School and West Salem High School each receive A-minus ratings. West Salem High has approximately 1,700 students and offers career and technical education courses in emergency services, computer programming, graphic design and finance. The school also has a successful performing arts program, winning several state championships in wind ensemble, orchestra and other band categories.
Straub Middle School provides education in the neighborhood of
West Salem.
West Salem High School provides education in the neighborhood of
West Salem.
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An easy drive across the river
Two one-way bridges connect West Salem to the rest of the city. The Marion Street bridge leads west from downtown into the neighborhood, while the Center Street bridge goes east from the community into downtown. Traffic can be heavy on the bridges, but Severson—who lives in West Salem but works downtown—says it's never been too bad for him. "You're a five-minute drive away. You can easily come across for dinner or to hit a bar," he says. Wallace Road and Glen Creek Road are thoroughfares for getting around the neighborhood. Salem Dallas Highway leads west to the nearby city of Dallas. The area has multiple bus routes, but most people drive to get where they're going. Salem Hospital is about 3 miles away in the South Central neighborhood. Salem has a small municipal airport, but the closest major airport is about 58 miles north in Portland.
The Public Transportation in Salem is reliable and cost effective.
An elevated look at the local freeway next to the Willamette River.
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
Are you familiar with the West Salem neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
West Salem
US
Homicide
5
4
Sexual Assault
4
4
Assault with Weapon
4
4
Robbery
4
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
5
4
Larceny
5
4
Crime Score
4
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
West Salem Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in West Salem, Salem sell after 77 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in West Salem, Salem over the last 12 months is $500,000, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Home Sweet Home ready for you! A beautiful two-story traditional home located in one of West Salem's first communities to offer residents the luxury of a neighborhood pool and clubhouse. Thoughtfully designed. Main level features formal living room plus dining room, a cozy family room with a gas fireplace, a convenient half bath, and an inviting kitchen complete with stainless steel/gas
Spacious triple-wide in sought-after Westview Estates! Open floor plan allows for perfect flow throughout the home. 3 bed/2 bath, 1,914 sq ft on owned land - MH Detitled, making conventional, FHA & VA financing available. Newer Pergo Outlast+ laminate floors, vaulted ceilings with a cozy fireplace. Attached garage, large back deck & huge fenced backyard. Quiet neighborhood, plenty of natural
Price improvement! Beautiful single-level in desirable W Salem neighborhood! 3 bed, 2 bath, 1,984 sqft on oversized lot w/peaceful surroundings & hot tub (2024). Kitchen w/granite island & updated appliances (fridge, gas range, dishwasher-2018), Cozy FR w/gas fireplace. Primary suite with crown moulding. Newer carpet. Expansive deck + bonus mini deck. Major updates: roof (2012), furnace/heat pump
Beautifully designed single level home. This 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath home with office offers an open concept floor plan with custom architectural details, including elegant columns that define the living spaces while maintaining a spacious feel. The gourmet kitchen features a large island, pantry and abundant workspace. Luxurious primary suite includes a large glass and tile shower and jetted tub.
Recently updated home in convenient west Salem location, close to shopping, parks, schools and transit. Kitchen with updated stainless steel appliances (dish washer, glass top range, built in microwave) and custom cabinets with full extension drawers and soft close hardware. Modern LVP flooring, large vinyl windows, efficient gas furnace and A/C, Large updated bath with easy access shower,
MOTIVATED SELLER! Beautiful 2-story home featuring 4 beds/2.5 baths in 2455 sq ft. Many upgrades, roof & heat pump/AC provide comfort & peace of mind. High ceilings, natural light, & hickory hardwood floors on main level create function & flexibility in open floor design. Reno'd kitchen w/quartz counters, great for cooking and entertaining. 4th BR is great bonus space; main floor office has
Nestled in a desirable West Salem, this spacious 3 BR 2.5 bath home offers 2,064sq ft of comfortable living space on a beautifully treed lot. Hhardwood floors, granite countertops, and two fireplaces that add warmth and charm throughout the home. Flexible floor plan includes multiple living spaces and a bonus room perfect for a home office, media room, or hobby space. The kitchen features granite
Well-maintained home w/updated roof in desirable West Salem! 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms with 2,325 sq ft of living space. Functional floor plan features bright living areas, spacious kitchen with ample cabinetry, and flexible space for everyday living or entertaining. Upstairs includes generously sized bedrooms with a primary suite and private bath. The fully fenced backyard provides room to
Welcome to this stunning 2,795 sq ft home in one of the area’s most sought-after neighborhoods! Featuring 3 spacious bedrooms, 3 baths, an office, and an incredible master suite fit for royalty. Bright, open living spaces, soaring ceilings, a chef’s kitchen, and a spa-like master bath make this home truly special. Enjoy a private backyard, perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Close to top-rated
This one's a gem, and it's been loved. 570 Winners Ct NW has had exactly one owner since it was built in 2004, and it shows. Tucked on a quiet cul-de-sac in West Salem, this single-level home has 3 bedrooms, an office, 2 full baths, and 1,502 square feet that just work. Updates include furnace, A/C, updated kitchen and main bath, and more. The great room layout feels open and easy, and ceiling
Open House July 10th 4pm-6:30pmCharming single-level home in the heart of West Salem! This 3 bedroom, 2 bath home offers 1,372 sq ft of comfortable living space on a spacious 0.21 acre lot. Features include wood flooring, a functional floor plan, forced air and hot water heat, a wall A/C unit, covered patio, attached 2-car garage, and RV parking. Conveniently located near Checkpoint 221 for
Very Spacious home in a highly desired NW Salem neighborhood with amazing views! Lots of natural light throughout. This home features 4 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, and an office. Entertaining size Kitchen with large island, pantry, formal dining room. Living room with high ceilings and fireplace. Large Primary suite on the main level. Primary bath has a jetted tub, fireplace and walk-in shower.
Thoughtfully updated and well maintained, this West Salem single-level offers comfort, convenience, and peace of mind. Recent improvements include a newer roof, HVAC system, new carpet, and crawl space waterproofing. The functional 3-bedroom, 2-bath layout features a spacious covered deck, room for RV parking, and a seasonal creek along the side of the property. Vaulted ceilings in the living
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
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,
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
Aspen Grove is a truly stunning living sanctuary in the heart of West Salem.Offering modern, livable, 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom apartment homes, Aspen Grove offers concise, functional floorplans with up-to-date amenities including solid surface countertops, stainless steel appliances, fireplaces, and patios/balconies. The community features a fitness center, clubhouse, community grill, and a
Discover pet-friendly living in West Salem at Willamette Park Apartments. Surrounded by Oregon’s natural beauty, our spacious two- and three-bedroom apartments feature modern full-sized kitchens, elegant finishes, and expansive living areas designed for comfort and connection. Enjoy stunning views of lush greenery and towering oaks, with plenty of space for you and your pets to feel at home.
Welcome to a fresh take on townhome living in the heart of Salem. Here, every detail is crafted to elevate your everyday. Think light-filled interiors, sleek modern finishes, and spaces that flow effortlessly from room to room. Step outside and find yourself moments from local cafes, trails, and all the charm Salem has to offer. Whether you're sipping coffee in your kitchen or relaxing in your
Taybin Terrace Apartments – Comfortable Living in a Convenient LocationTaybin Terrace offers spacious 1-bedroom apartment homes designed for comfort and convenience. Ideally located with easy access to Highway 22, Highway 99E, and I-5, commuting to downtown Salem is quick and simple—whether by car or public transportation.Community Amenities:Laundry facilitiesAssigned
Welcome to Parkview Apartments! We’re thrilled to welcome you to our friendly, pet-loving community here in West Salem. Our spacious two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartments are designed with your comfort in mind. Each home comes equipped with a full-size washer and dryer right in your apartment. The kitchen is fully stocked with a refrigerator, electric range, dishwasher, and garbage
3 BEDROOM, 2.5 BATH, MASTER ON MAIN FLOOR, NICE OUTDOOR ENTERTAINMENT AREA, YEAR ROUND (POND)/CREEK PROVIDES A SENIC AND AUDIO NUANCE FOR A RELAXING NIGHT, WEST SALEM H/S, SHORT COMMUTE TO ALL OF SALEM.
$2,160 per month
3Bd/2Ba Single Story Home - For viewing beginning 4/27/2026!
3bd/2ba single story home built in 2007 with approx. 1078 sq. ft. This home features an open concept, forced air gas heat, a partially fenced back yard and separated main level laundry area in the double attached garage with opener. All kitchen appliances provided. Tenant responsible for all utilities. Lawn maintenance provided, tenant must water so lawn remains green ongoing. 1 pet up to 30
Welcome to Overlook Townhomes!(4) TOWNHOME UNITS are AVAILABLE to RENT on or before 6/15/2026Accepting Applications NOWEasy two-story living in this townhome located in an excellent location for city living just off Orchard Heights Dr in West SalemWater/Sewer/Electricity/Gas/Cable/Internet/Garbage PAID BY TENANTLandscaping Paid by OwnerPets Considered with
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