In the 1850s, Salem, Utah was better known as “Pond Town,” named for the body of water at its center. Today, residents still take advantage of Salem Pond, paddleboarding, fishing for bass and enjoying views of Mount Loafer in the distance. “Salem has some of the most beautiful scenery in southern Utah,” says Scott Walters, the owner of Best USA Realty. “It’s also got a strong community. I’ve lived here for 28 years and, though all the development, it’s still the kind of place where everyone knows each other, and they’re very friendly.” In the last 20 years, Salem’s population has grown exponentially; approximately 4,300 people called the city home in 2000. Today, that number hovers around 10,000. Most residents live in brand-new subdivisions where floorplans often surpass 4,000 square feet and steep gabled roofs mirror the distant mountain peaks. However, there are also a handful of smaller brick homes dating back to as early as 1900. Despite Salem’s steady growth, the so-called “City of Peace” still has a small-town feel. With only three stoplights spread out throughout the entire community, traffic is rarely a concern. Residents merge onto Interstate 15, a highway that carries them all the way to Provo’s retail centers and Salt Lake City 60 miles north.
Enjoy a day fishing at Salem Pond, located in the Salem neighborhood.
Enjoy a relaxing walk around Salem Pond, located in the Salem neighborhood.
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Brand new traditional homes with plenty of bedrooms
In Salem, home prices start at $400,000 and can sometimes exceed $1 million depending on square footage. Three-bedroom townhomes built within the last few years can sell for anywhere between $400,000 and $500,000, and HOA fees give residents access to amenities like ground maintenance and trash removal. In other parts of the city, a five-bedroom raised ranch-style with mountain views and a two-car garage can sell for $750,000. “I have six children, and I’ve also got my mother and my aunt living under my roof,” says Walters, adding, “A lot of these homes are purposefully made with multi-generational families in mind.” At the highest end of the spectrum, a newly remodeled eight-bedroom traditional home can exceed $1.6 million. In Salem, lot sizes are generous — usually around 1/3 acre — which gives residents enough room to plant vegetable gardens, harvest fruit from mature trees or chat with neighbors around backyard firepits.
Newly built ramblers and two-story homes are commonplace in the Salem neighborhood.
Newly built two-story homes are found all throughout the Salem neighborhood.
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Extensive elective and CTE opportunities at Salem Hills High School
Salem students are incorporated into the Nebo School District where Salem Elementary, Salem Junior High and Salem Hills High School all received a C-plus or higher from the educational review site Niche. Salem Hills High, which was awarded a B-plus, is known for its extensive course catalog, offering electives in subjects like sci-fi fantasy literature, equine science and sports psychology. The school also offers Career Technical Education opportunities at local tech centers like ALC and MTECH. CTE pathways include everything from interior design to aviation.
Salem Hills High School is located in the Salem neighborhood.
Salem Hills High School is located in the Salem neighborhood.
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“Fry Sauce” and soda stops on Utah State Route 198
Although most of Salem’s residential developments range from a few months to just a few years old, some of the small city’s restaurants have histories dating back 70 years. Stan’s Drive-in, for instance, has been perfecting its “fry sauce” recipe since the mid-1950s. Old-fashioned red gas pumps stand outside Soda Retreat, a roadside stop where locals can order a wide selection of cola and soda flavors. Also along Utah State Route 198, residents will find Burger King, McDonald’s and smaller chains like Gandolfo’s New York Deli and Main Street Pizza. Nearby, check items off the grocery list at Stokes Market and pick up supplies for household projects at the attached Ace Hardware. More options can always be found just 8 miles north in Spanish Fork or in Provo, another 8 miles up Interstate 15.
Stan's Drive-In, located in the Salem neighborhood, is a great place to meet up with friends.
The drive thru at Soda Retreat, located in the Salem neighborhood, offers quick service.
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Salem Days festival, lights on the lake and BYU museums
In August, residents look forward to “Salem Days,” a week-long local festival known for long-standing traditions like the Cardboard Duct Tape Regatta in Salem Pond and a Dutch oven cookoff. Children collect candy thrown from homemade floats at the Grand Parade, and the last night of the festival is capped off with a firework show. During the holiday season, lighted Christmas trees float on Salem Pond and local vendors set up shop inside the Salem Recreation Center for the Pond Town Christmas Boutique in early December. In nearby Provo, residents can attend musicals, plays and dance recitals at Brigham Young University or check out the BYU Art Museum, which houses a large collection of Etruscan art as well as works by famed painters like Norman Rockwell and Rembrandt. Or stop by the University's Museum of Paleontology, also on campus.
Utah Lake is a quick drive from the Salem neighborhood.
Brigham Young University is located in quick driving distance from the Salem neighborhood.
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Recreation on Salem Pond, farm-themed playgrounds and Utah Lake beyond
During the summer months, swimmers, kayakers and fishermen head out to Salem Pond — non-motorized boats are welcome on the water from May until October, whereas other vehicles require permits. On the banks of the pond is Knoll Park, home to a playground, picnic areas and a bridge that extends across the water. Families also enjoy the farm-themed playground at Cole Park, where play structures are built to look like grain silos, tractors and cows. Closer to Downtown Salem, local baseball leagues practice on the Veteran’s Memorial Park fields or at the Loafer View Recreation Complex. Less than half an hour from Salem is Utah Lake, which spans nearly 150 square miles. Sailors compete in the Utah Lake Regatta in June, and Utah Lake State Park has trails for off-roading and horseback riding.
Recently opened Cole Park, located in the Salem neighborhood, offers a playground, a pavilion, and pickleball courts.
Salem Pond is located in the Salem neighborhood.
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UTA public transit and the Provo Airport
Although Salem is largely car-dependent, city residents can take Utah Transit Authority (UTA) buses along Route 198 all the way to Provo Central Station. From here, the FrontRunner commuter train carries residents to Ogden, passing through Salt Lake City on the way. Provo Airport, just about 15 miles from Salem, is serviced by Allegiant Air and Breeze Airways. Together, they offer direct flights to over a dozen U.S. cities. For more options, there’s also the Salt Lake City International Airport about an hour north.
When it comes to healthcare, Salem residents can head to Mountain View Hospital in nearby Payson. The facility offers emergency services, mental health treatment, physical therapy and more.
UTA Provo Central Station serves the Salem neighborhood.
Provo Airport serves the Salem neighborhood.
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Important to know: The Dream Mine
The city of Salem is also known for “The Dream Mine,” an ore-processing mill built at the base of Knob Hill in the mid-1890s. Although John Hyrum Koyle, a former bishop in The Church of Jesus Christ and Latter Day Saints, predicted that the facility would produce riches for the church, his prophecies failed to come true — in 1948, Koyle was excommunicated from the church.
Written By
Tina Davis
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Branden Kirk,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Salem, UT sell after 12 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Salem, UT over the last 12 months is $434,990, down 34% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
If you're looking for a rambler with spacious entertaining room, this is it! Walking into this home with it's beautiful staircase is so dreamy. The huge great room is open to a stunning kitchen with an oversized pantry. A large primary suite is nestled behind the third car garage, while the additional 2 bedrooms sit on the opposite side of the home. This home is part of our Moonlight community
Our brand new Maya floor plan is a must visit! With 4 finished bedrooms, PLUS a front living/office, this plan leaves all the options open. The primary is on the main level, with the 3 additional bedrooms on the upper level. The upper level bedrooms all have large closets; plus a loft! This stunning home has a 2/1 buy down. Reach out to the listing agent to tour this home today!
** 2/1 Interest rate buydown + $3,500 in closing costs with preferred lender!**Come see our brand-new Maya Floorplan! Where timeless charm meets modern living. This beautifully designed floor plan features a striking two-story entry and great room that floods the home with natural light to create a sense of openness from the moment you walk in. With 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, the Maya offers plenty
**BACK ON THE MARKET - Buyer's Financing fell through after Financing and Appraisal Deadline****Certificate of Occupancy received on 9/8/2025** Nestled at the foot of Utah's majestic Wasatch Mountains and situated adjacent to Salem's exclusive, up and coming Three Bridges Resort and Golf Community sits this spectacular luxury residence with breath taking views! Imagine entering the front door
Beautiful spacious home that has tall ceilings in the great room, extra kitchen cabinets, stone countertops, stainless steel appliances, all brick exterior, park-like backyard with fire pit and mature trees, two heating and cooling systems, great location! This home has a lot to offer, must see to appreciate. Information provided as a courtesy, buyer to verify all information.
## Everyday ease The Gambel Oak brings everyday ease to two stories. At ~1,680 sq. ft., this plan offers 3-4 bedrooms, 2.5?3.5 baths, and a 2-car garage. An open kitchen?dining?great room keeps everyone connected, while an oversized pantry streamlines prep. A mud room near the garage tames daily drop-offs, and the spacious primary closet helps everything stay organized. **Close to Salem?s best**
This large and spacious 2-story floor plan is open and flexible. This floor plan features a large and comfortable primary suite on the main floor that includes a sitting area and vaulted ceiling. At 5,305 square feet this plan ensures that all living and entertaining area are spacious. With four bedrooms and two and half baths this home has enough space for every need, including a unique feature
Meet the Andrea, a home that will steal the spotlight with its show-stopping modern Tudor exterior, sure to be the envy of the neighborhood. This remarkable plan boasts a 3 bay garage standard, offering ample space for your vehicles and hobbies. Inside, experience luxury at its finest with a spacious master suite, complemented by a second bedroom that features an ensuite bathroom and walk-in
Are you looking for a 4 bedroom rambler that has gorgeous details and plenty of space, coupled with intelligent design. The Stockton rambler never ceases to impress. Just one example of the functionality of this floor plan are that the secondary bedrooms and master bedroom are on opposite ends of the home. This home is 4,497 square feet, and has 3 full bathrooms and 4 bedrooms all on the same
The property is located at 704 N 1850 East SALEM UT 84653 priced at 424990, the square foot and stories are 1616, 2.The number of bath is 2, halfbath is 1 there are 4 bedrooms and 2 garages. For more details please, call or email.
The Maya floor plan by Arive Homes is where thoughtful design meets everyday ease. With 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and an open-concept layout, the Maya offers the perfect blend of style and function. a spacious kitchen flows seamlessly into the living and dining areas, making it ideal for entertaining, while the upstairs layout provides comfortable separation and privacy. Like every Arive Home, the
Our stunning 2-story plan the Julia is overflowing with both space and style. Featured in the 2022 parade of homes this floor plan has a stunning, 2-story entrance and great room. A large primary suite on the main floor, and has space for the whole family with four bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms. Enjoy a large, second story loft space with overlook, a large laundry room, and a distinct
This large, 2-story floor plan is stunning from the curb and continues to stun as you enter. Enjoy a spacious and open entryway, gorgeous staircase and great room area open to the second floor, that give this home unique and memorable look. Coming in at nearly 5,000 square feet this home has space for everything, including a massive laundry room, craft room, and walk-in pantry maximizing
Fully furnished townhome with 3 bedrooms (1 is an office), brand new appliances and furniture in the new Viridian development. Free pickleball courts, clubhouse, splash pad and pool. Garage and driveway, upgraded bathrooms and living room.
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