Salem, OR vs Pasadena, CA: 105 vs 220

$1,323/mo ↓ 40%

Median Rent

$2,218/mo ↑ 68%

$71,900/yr ↓ 31%

Median Income

$103,778/yr ↑ 44%

$382,400 ↓ 63%

Home Value

$1,045,000 ↑ 173%

$1,440/mo ↓ 38%

Owner Costs

$2,340/mo ↑ 62%

176,666

Population

136,462

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Salem, OR and Pasadena, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 105 and 220 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $895/month cheaper in Salem, saving renters about $10,740/year.

Median household income is $31,878/year higher in Pasadena. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Salem is $382,400 compared to $1,045,000 in Pasadena.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Salem vs Pasadena — common questions

Is Salem or Pasadena cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Salem is cheaper to live in with an index of 105 compared to 220 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Salem and Pasadena?

Median rent in Salem is $1,323/month and in Pasadena it's $2,218/month — a difference of $895/month.

Which city has higher income, Salem or Pasadena?

Median household income is $71,900 in Salem and $103,778 in Pasadena. Median household income is $31,878/year higher in Pasadena.

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 Pasadena?

It depends on your priorities. Salem has a cost index of 105 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Pasadena has a cost index of 220 with rent of $2,218/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Salem

Pasadena

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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