Cincinnati, OH vs Salem, OR: 69 vs 105

$953/mo ↓ 28%

Median Rent

$1,323/mo ↑ 39%

$51,707/yr ↓ 28%

Median Income

$71,900/yr ↑ 39%

$215,300 ↓ 44%

Home Value

$382,400 ↑ 78%

$1,041/mo ↓ 28%

Owner Costs

$1,440/mo ↑ 38%

309,595

Population

176,666

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Cincinnati, OH and Salem, OR, the overall cost of living indices are 69 and 105 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $370/month cheaper in Cincinnati, saving renters about $4,440/year.

Median household income is $20,193/year higher in Salem. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Cincinnati is $215,300 compared to $382,400 in Salem.

Ohio has a lower income tax rate, making Cincinnati slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cincinnati vs Salem — common questions

Is Cincinnati or Salem cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Cincinnati is cheaper to live in with an index of 69 compared to 105 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Cincinnati and Salem?

Median rent in Cincinnati is $953/month and in Salem it's $1,323/month — a difference of $370/month.

Which city has higher income, Cincinnati or Salem?

Median household income is $51,707 in Cincinnati and $71,900 in Salem. Median household income is $20,193/year higher in Salem.

How do taxes compare between Ohio and Oregon?

Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax. Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Cincinnati or Salem?

It depends on your priorities. Cincinnati has a cost index of 69 with median rent of $953/mo, while Salem has a cost index of 105 with rent of $1,323/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Cincinnati, OH vs Salem, OR (2026)

Cincinnati

Salem

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons