Cleveland, OH vs Salem, OR: 51 vs 105

$894/mo ↓ 32%

Median Rent

$1,323/mo ↑ 48%

$39,187/yr ↓ 45%

Median Income

$71,900/yr ↑ 83%

$94,100 ↓ 75%

Home Value

$382,400 ↑ 306%

$866/mo ↓ 40%

Owner Costs

$1,440/mo ↑ 66%

367,523

Population

176,666

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Cleveland, OH and Salem, OR, the overall cost of living indices are 51 and 105 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $429/month cheaper in Cleveland, saving renters about $5,148/year.

Median household income is $32,713/year higher in Salem. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Cleveland is $94,100 compared to $382,400 in Salem.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Cleveland vs Salem — common questions

Is Cleveland or Salem cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Cleveland is cheaper to live in with an index of 51 compared to 105 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Cleveland and Salem?

Median rent in Cleveland is $894/month and in Salem it's $1,323/month — a difference of $429/month.

Which city has higher income, Cleveland or Salem?

Median household income is $39,187 in Cleveland and $71,900 in Salem. Median household income is $32,713/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 Cleveland or Salem?

It depends on your priorities. Cleveland has a cost index of 51 with median rent of $894/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: Cleveland, OH vs Salem, OR (2026)

Cleveland

Salem

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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