Salem, OR vs Downey, CA: 105 vs 169

$1,323/mo ↓ 30%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↑ 43%

$71,900/yr ↓ 18%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↑ 22%

$382,400 ↓ 48%

Home Value

$728,500 ↑ 91%

$1,440/mo ↓ 28%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↑ 39%

176,666

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Salem, OR and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 105 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $569/month cheaper in Salem, saving renters about $6,828/year.

Median household income is $15,500/year higher in Downey. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Salem is $382,400 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Salem vs Downey — common questions

Is Salem or Downey 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 Salem and Downey?

Median rent in Salem is $1,323/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $569/month.

Which city has higher income, Salem or Downey?

Median household income is $71,900 in Salem and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $15,500/year higher in Downey.

How do taxes compare between Oregon and California?

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

Should I move to Salem or Downey?

It depends on your priorities. Salem has a cost index of 105 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Downey has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,892/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Salem, OR vs Downey, CA (2026)

Salem

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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