Salem, OR vs Ventura, CA: 105 vs 183

$1,323/mo ↓ 37%

Median Rent

$2,101/mo ↑ 59%

$71,900/yr ↓ 28%

Median Income

$100,407/yr ↑ 40%

$382,400 ↓ 51%

Home Value

$778,700 ↑ 104%

$1,440/mo ↓ 32%

Owner Costs

$2,118/mo ↑ 47%

176,666

Population

109,900

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Salem, OR and Ventura, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 105 and 183 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $778/month cheaper in Salem, saving renters about $9,336/year.

Median household income is $28,507/year higher in Ventura. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Salem is $382,400 compared to $778,700 in Ventura.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Salem vs Ventura — common questions

Is Salem or Ventura cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Salem is cheaper to live in with an index of 105 compared to 183 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Salem and Ventura?

Median rent in Salem is $1,323/month and in Ventura it's $2,101/month — a difference of $778/month.

Which city has higher income, Salem or Ventura?

Median household income is $71,900 in Salem and $100,407 in Ventura. Median household income is $28,507/year higher in Ventura.

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 Ventura?

It depends on your priorities. Salem has a cost index of 105 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Ventura has a cost index of 183 with rent of $2,101/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Salem

Ventura

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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