Long Beach, CA vs Salem, OR: 169 vs 105

$1,803/mo ↑ 36%

Median Rent

$1,323/mo ↓ 27%

$83,969/yr ↑ 17%

Median Income

$71,900/yr ↓ 14%

$762,200 ↑ 99%

Home Value

$382,400 ↓ 50%

$1,890/mo ↑ 31%

Owner Costs

$1,440/mo ↓ 24%

458,491

Population

176,666

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Long Beach, CA and Salem, OR, the overall cost of living indices are 169 and 105 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $480/month cheaper in Salem, saving renters about $5,760/year.

Median household income is $12,069/year higher in Long Beach. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Long Beach is $762,200 compared to $382,400 in Salem.

Oregon has a lower income tax rate, making Salem slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Long Beach vs Salem — common questions

Is Long Beach or Salem cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Salem is cheaper to live in with an index of 105 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Long Beach and Salem?

Median rent in Long Beach is $1,803/month and in Salem it's $1,323/month — a difference of $480/month.

Which city has higher income, Long Beach or Salem?

Median household income is $83,969 in Long Beach and $71,900 in Salem. Median household income is $12,069/year higher in Long Beach.

How do taxes compare between California and Oregon?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Long Beach or Salem?

It depends on your priorities. Long Beach has a cost index of 169 with median rent of $1,803/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: Long Beach, CA vs Salem, OR (2026)

Long Beach

Salem

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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