Seattle, WA vs Salem, OR: 196 vs 105

$1,998/mo ↑ 51%

Median Rent

$1,323/mo ↓ 34%

$121,984/yr ↑ 70%

Median Income

$71,900/yr ↓ 41%

$912,100 ↑ 139%

Home Value

$382,400 ↓ 58%

$2,220/mo ↑ 54%

Owner Costs

$1,440/mo ↓ 35%

741,440

Population

176,666

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Seattle, WA and Salem, OR, the overall cost of living indices are 196 and 105 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $675/month cheaper in Salem, saving renters about $8,100/year.

Median household income is $50,084/year higher in Seattle. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Seattle is $912,100 compared to $382,400 in Salem.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Seattle residents a significant tax advantage over Oregon's 9.9% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Seattle vs Salem — common questions

Is Seattle or Salem cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Salem is cheaper to live in with an index of 105 compared to 196 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Seattle and Salem?

Median rent in Seattle is $1,998/month and in Salem it's $1,323/month — a difference of $675/month.

Which city has higher income, Seattle or Salem?

Median household income is $121,984 in Seattle and $71,900 in Salem. Median household income is $50,084/year higher in Seattle.

How do taxes compare between Washington and Oregon?

Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Seattle or Salem?

It depends on your priorities. Seattle has a cost index of 196 with median rent of $1,998/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: Seattle, WA vs Salem, OR (2026)

Seattle

Salem

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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