Pittsburgh, PA vs Salem, OR: 76 vs 105

$1,221/mo ↓ 8%

Median Rent

$1,323/mo ↑ 8%

$64,137/yr ↓ 11%

Median Income

$71,900/yr ↑ 12%

$193,200 ↓ 49%

Home Value

$382,400 ↑ 98%

$1,136/mo ↓ 21%

Owner Costs

$1,440/mo ↑ 27%

303,620

Population

176,666

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Pittsburgh, PA and Salem, OR, the overall cost of living indices are 76 and 105 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $102/month cheaper in Pittsburgh, saving renters about $1,224/year.

Median household income is $7,763/year higher in Salem. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Pittsburgh is $193,200 compared to $382,400 in Salem.

Pennsylvania has a lower income tax rate, making Pittsburgh slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pittsburgh vs Salem — common questions

Is Pittsburgh or Salem cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Pittsburgh is cheaper to live in with an index of 76 compared to 105 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Pittsburgh and Salem?

Median rent in Pittsburgh is $1,221/month and in Salem it's $1,323/month — a difference of $102/month.

Which city has higher income, Pittsburgh or Salem?

Median household income is $64,137 in Pittsburgh and $71,900 in Salem. Median household income is $7,763/year higher in Salem.

How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Oregon?

Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Pittsburgh or Salem?

It depends on your priorities. Pittsburgh has a cost index of 76 with median rent of $1,221/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: Pittsburgh, PA vs Salem, OR (2026)

Pittsburgh

Salem

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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