Salem, OR Census Data
Key demographic and economic indicators for Salem, Oregon from the 2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.
Updated: 2026-03-23 · Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2023
Population
176,666
50.5% male · 49.5% female
Median Age
35.7
3.0 below the national average (38.7 yrs)
Median Household Income
$71,900
6,638.0 below the national average ($78,538)
Bachelor's Degree or Higher
31.4%
3.6 below the national average (35.0%)
HS diploma or higher: 88.7%
Poverty Rate
14.7%
2.3 above the national average (12.4%)
Uninsured: 7.4%
Broadband Access
96.3%
6.6 above the national average (89.7%)
Median Home Value
$382,400
Median rent: $1,323 · 56% owner-occupied
Unemployment Rate
5.3%
Labor force participation: 57.9%
Demographics
Race & Ethnicity
Age Distribution
Commute to Work
Salem, OR Frequently Asked Questions
What is the population of Salem, OR?
The population of Salem, OR is 176,666 according to the 2023 American Community Survey 5-year estimates. The median age is 35.7 years.
What is the median household income in Salem?
The median household income in Salem, OR is $71,900, below the national average of $78,538. Per capita income is $39,788.
What is the poverty rate in Salem?
The poverty rate in Salem, OR is 14.7%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. About 7.4% of residents lack health insurance.
What percentage of Salem residents have a college degree?
31.4% of adults (25+) in Salem hold a bachelor's degree or higher, and 88.7% have at least a high school diploma. The national average for bachelor's degree holders is 35.0%.
What is the median home value in Salem?
The median home value in Salem, OR is $382,400. Median rent is $1,323 per month, with 56% of housing units owner-occupied.
What is the racial makeup of Salem?
Salem's population is 69.8% White, 1.6% Black, 23.4% Hispanic or Latino, and 3.5% Asian (source: 2023 ACS).