Salem, OR vs Lakewood, CO: 105 vs 141

$1,323/mo ↓ 24%

Median Rent

$1,746/mo ↑ 32%

$71,900/yr ↓ 16%

Median Income

$85,789/yr ↑ 19%

$382,400 ↓ 30%

Home Value

$548,200 ↑ 43%

$1,440/mo ↓ 17%

Owner Costs

$1,729/mo ↑ 20%

176,666

Population

156,309

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Salem, OR and Lakewood, CO, the overall cost of living indices are 105 and 141 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $423/month cheaper in Salem, saving renters about $5,076/year.

Median household income is $13,889/year higher in Lakewood. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Salem is $382,400 compared to $548,200 in Lakewood.

Colorado has a lower income tax rate, making Lakewood slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Salem vs Lakewood — common questions

Is Salem or Lakewood cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Salem is cheaper to live in with an index of 105 compared to 141 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Salem and Lakewood?

Median rent in Salem is $1,323/month and in Lakewood it's $1,746/month — a difference of $423/month.

Which city has higher income, Salem or Lakewood?

Median household income is $71,900 in Salem and $85,789 in Lakewood. Median household income is $13,889/year higher in Lakewood.

How do taxes compare between Oregon and Colorado?

Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax.

Should I move to Salem or Lakewood?

It depends on your priorities. Salem has a cost index of 105 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Lakewood has a cost index of 141 with rent of $1,746/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Salem, OR vs Lakewood, CO (2026)

Salem

Lakewood

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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