Cost of Living: Salem, OR vs Denton, TX (2026)

Salem

Oregon
105
VS

Denton

Texas
100

Salem is 5% more expensive than Denton.

$1,323/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,344/mo ↑ 2%
$71,900/yr ↓ 2%
Median Income
$73,719/yr ↑ 3%
$382,400 ↑ 17%
Home Value
$325,700 ↓ 15%
$1,440/mo ↓ 1%
Owner Costs
$1,461/mo ↑ 1%
176,666
Population
146,987

Tax Comparison

9.9%
Income Tax
0%
0%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
0.93%
Property Tax
1.6%

Affordability

22.1%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.9%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Salem, OR and Denton, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 105 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $1,819/year higher in Denton. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Salem is $382,400 compared to $325,700 in Denton.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Denton residents a significant tax advantage over Oregon's 9.9% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Salem vs Denton — common questions

Is Salem or Denton cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Denton is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 105 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Salem and Denton?
Median rent in Salem is $1,323/month and in Denton it's $1,344/month — a difference of $21/month.
Which city has higher income, Salem or Denton?
Median household income is $71,900 in Salem and $73,719 in Denton. Median household income is $1,819/year higher in Denton.
How do taxes compare between Oregon and Texas?
Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.
Should I move to Salem or Denton?
It depends on your priorities. Salem has a cost index of 105 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Denton has a cost index of 100 with rent of $1,344/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Salem details → View Denton details →

More Comparisons

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