San Francisco, CA vs Salem, OR: 267 vs 105

$2,419/mo ↑ 83%

Median Rent

$1,323/mo ↓ 45%

$141,446/yr ↑ 97%

Median Income

$71,900/yr ↓ 49%

$1,380,500 ↑ 261%

Home Value

$382,400 ↓ 72%

$2,620/mo ↑ 82%

Owner Costs

$1,440/mo ↓ 45%

836,321

Population

176,666

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Francisco, CA and Salem, OR, the overall cost of living indices are 267 and 105 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,096/month cheaper in Salem, saving renters about $13,152/year.

Median household income is $69,546/year higher in San Francisco. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Francisco is $1,380,500 compared to $382,400 in Salem.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

San Francisco vs Salem — common questions

Is San Francisco or Salem cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Salem is cheaper to live in with an index of 105 compared to 267 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Francisco and Salem?

Median rent in San Francisco is $2,419/month and in Salem it's $1,323/month — a difference of $1,096/month.

Which city has higher income, San Francisco or Salem?

Median household income is $141,446 in San Francisco and $71,900 in Salem. Median household income is $69,546/year higher in San Francisco.

How do taxes compare between California and Oregon?

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

Should I move to San Francisco or Salem?

It depends on your priorities. San Francisco has a cost index of 267 with median rent of $2,419/mo, while Salem has a cost index of 105 with rent of $1,323/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

San Francisco

Salem

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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