Vancouver, WA vs Salem, OR: 123 vs 105

$1,632/mo ↑ 23%

Median Rent

$1,323/mo ↓ 19%

$78,156/yr ↑ 9%

Median Income

$71,900/yr ↓ 8%

$440,300 ↑ 15%

Home Value

$382,400 ↓ 13%

$1,607/mo ↑ 12%

Owner Costs

$1,440/mo ↓ 10%

192,696

Population

176,666

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Vancouver, WA and Salem, OR, the overall cost of living indices are 123 and 105 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $309/month cheaper in Salem, saving renters about $3,708/year.

Median household income is $6,256/year higher in Vancouver. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Vancouver is $440,300 compared to $382,400 in Salem.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Vancouver vs Salem — common questions

Is Vancouver or Salem cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Salem is cheaper to live in with an index of 105 compared to 123 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Vancouver and Salem?

Median rent in Vancouver is $1,632/month and in Salem it's $1,323/month — a difference of $309/month.

Which city has higher income, Vancouver or Salem?

Median household income is $78,156 in Vancouver and $71,900 in Salem. Median household income is $6,256/year higher in Vancouver.

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 Vancouver or Salem?

It depends on your priorities. Vancouver has a cost index of 123 with median rent of $1,632/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: Vancouver, WA vs Salem, OR (2026)

Vancouver

Salem

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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