Cost of Living: Salem, OR vs Hampton, VA (2026)

Salem

Oregon
105
VS

Hampton

Virginia
88

Salem is 19% more expensive than Hampton.

$1,323/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,346/mo ↑ 2%
$71,900/yr ↑ 6%
Median Income
$67,758/yr ↓ 6%
$382,400 ↑ 63%
Home Value
$234,100 ↓ 39%
$1,440/mo ↑ 7%
Owner Costs
$1,347/mo ↓ 6%
176,666
Population
137,334

Tax Comparison

9.9%
Income Tax
5.75%
0%
State Sales Tax
5.3%
0.93%
Property Tax
0.8%

Affordability

22.1%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Salem, OR and Hampton, VA, the overall cost of living indices are 105 and 88 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $4,142/year higher in Salem. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Salem is $382,400 compared to $234,100 in Hampton.

Virginia has a lower income tax rate, making Hampton slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Salem vs Hampton — common questions

Is Salem or Hampton cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Hampton is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 105 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Salem and Hampton?
Median rent in Salem is $1,323/month and in Hampton it's $1,346/month — a difference of $23/month.
Which city has higher income, Salem or Hampton?
Median household income is $71,900 in Salem and $67,758 in Hampton. Median household income is $4,142/year higher in Salem.
How do taxes compare between Oregon and Virginia?
Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.
Should I move to Salem or Hampton?
It depends on your priorities. Salem has a cost index of 105 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Hampton has a cost index of 88 with rent of $1,346/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Salem details → View Hampton details →

More Comparisons

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