Virginia Beach, VA vs Salem, OR: 117 vs 105

$1,649/mo ↑ 25%

Median Rent

$1,323/mo ↓ 20%

$90,685/yr ↑ 26%

Median Income

$71,900/yr ↓ 21%

$366,300 ↓ 4%

Home Value

$382,400 ↑ 4%

$1,704/mo ↑ 18%

Owner Costs

$1,440/mo ↓ 15%

457,066

Population

176,666

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Virginia Beach, VA and Salem, OR, the overall cost of living indices are 117 and 105 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $326/month cheaper in Salem, saving renters about $3,912/year.

Median household income is $18,785/year higher in Virginia Beach. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Virginia Beach is $366,300 compared to $382,400 in Salem.

Virginia has a lower income tax rate, making Virginia Beach slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Virginia Beach vs Salem — common questions

Is Virginia Beach or Salem cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Salem is cheaper to live in with an index of 105 compared to 117 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Virginia Beach and Salem?

Median rent in Virginia Beach is $1,649/month and in Salem it's $1,323/month — a difference of $326/month.

Which city has higher income, Virginia Beach or Salem?

Median household income is $90,685 in Virginia Beach and $71,900 in Salem. Median household income is $18,785/year higher in Virginia Beach.

How do taxes compare between Virginia and Oregon?

Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Virginia Beach or Salem?

It depends on your priorities. Virginia Beach has a cost index of 117 with median rent of $1,649/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: Virginia Beach, VA vs Salem, OR (2026)

Virginia Beach

Salem

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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