countyscore
43
County Score
Disaster Risk 81.4Health 67.7Weather & Climate 62.3

County Report Card

About Salem city, Virginia

Slightly behind the national median

Salem city earns a composite score of 43.0, falling just below the national median of 50.0. While it performs well in certain areas, it lacks the overall consistency of higher-ranked cities.

Trailing the Virginia state average

With a score of 43.0, Salem sits below the Virginia state average of 50.9. It offers a middle-of-the-road experience compared to other independent cities across the Commonwealth.

Low environmental risk and good health

The city's greatest strength is its risk score of 81.4, indicating high environmental stability. It also performs well in health with a score of 67.7 and a decent income score of 58.4.

Cost and safety present obstacles

Housing affordability is a weak spot with a cost score of 22.1 and home values near $244,800. Safety is also a concern at 24.6, and water quality data is not yet available for the city.

A stable choice for health-conscious renters

Salem city is a good fit for residents who prioritize low natural risk and access to healthcare. It provides a stable suburban-city feel with solid incomes, despite its moderate safety and cost scores.

Score breakdown

Tax44.4Cost22.1Safety24.6Health67.7Schools50.3Income58.4Risk81.4WaterComing SoonWeather62.3
🏛44.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠22.1
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼58.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡24.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤67.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓50.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡81.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤62.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱56.1
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Nearby counties

Roanoke County
Virginia
49.4
Roanoke city
Virginia
27.7
Craig County
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61.3
Franklin County
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Montgomery County
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Botetourt County
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Radford city
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Floyd County
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Deep Dives

Salem city across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 8 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Salem city

via TaxByCounty

Salem city taxes above national median

At 0.912%, Salem city's effective property tax rate exceeds the national median of 0.76%, placing it in the top 20% of U.S. counties. The median property tax of $2,232 sits below the national median of $2,690, reflecting the city's above-average rate applied to moderately valued homes.

Higher than typical Virginia jurisdiction

Salem city's 0.912% effective rate ranks well above Virginia's state average of 0.671%, placing it among the state's higher-taxed jurisdictions. The city's tax burden is 36% higher than the typical Virginia county.

Steeper taxes than nearby rural areas

Salem city's 0.912% rate significantly exceeds nearby Roanoke County (0.875%), Rockbridge County (0.600%), and Russell County (0.538%). Among Virginia cities, Salem falls between Richmond city (0.864%) and Roanoke city (1.013%).

Over $2,200 annually for median home

On a median home valued at $244,800, Salem city homeowners pay approximately $2,232 in annual property taxes. Those with mortgages pay slightly less at $2,184, while homeowners without mortgages pay $2,322.

Assessment appeal could reduce burden

With property taxes exceeding $2,200 annually, Salem city homeowners should verify their valuations are fair. Overassessed properties represent hundreds of potential annual savings through a formal appeal.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Salem city

via CostByCounty

Salem balances affordability and urban character

Salem city's rent-to-income ratio of 18.8% is virtually on par with Virginia's state average of 18.6%, while its median household income of $66,716 sits comfortably near state levels. This smaller city delivers moderate affordability alongside genuine urban amenities.

At-average affordability for Virginia markets

Salem city's 18.8% rent-to-income ratio closely tracks Virginia's state average of 18.6%, making it a representative example of typical Virginia housing cost burdens. The median rent of $1,046 is 8% below the state median of $1,140, offering modest rental savings.

Moderate pricing in regional context

Salem city's $1,046 median rent sits between Roanoke city ($964) and Roanoke County ($1,148), positioning it as a middle option in the southwestern corridor. Home values of $244,800 are below Roanoke County ($267,300) but above Roanoke city ($180,500), reflecting its status as a moderate-sized urban center.

Renters and owners face different burdens

Renters pay $1,046 monthly while homeowners face a higher $1,168 monthly cost from a median income of $66,716. The 18.8% rent-to-income ratio keeps rents manageable, though prospective homebuyers may face tighter affordability depending on their specific financing situation.

Sweet spot for urban comfort and value

Salem city offers reliable affordability at near-state-average levels, paired with genuine downtown character and regional connectivity—ideal for relocators seeking urban flavor without premium pricing. The 18.8% rent-to-income ratio suggests sustainable long-term housing costs for most households.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Salem city

via IncomeByCounty

Salem city near national income levels

Salem city's median household income of $66,716 trails the national median of $74,755 by $8,039, representing about 89% of national earnings. The city's per capita income of $38,127 closely approaches the national average, reflecting fairly typical individual earning patterns.

Below Virginia's state average

Salem city's median household income of $66,716 falls below Virginia's state average of $74,957 by $8,241, placing it in the lower-middle range statewide. The per capita income of $38,127 nearly matches the state's $39,155 average, indicating fairly typical individual earnings.

Upper-middle range locally

Salem city's $66,716 median income outearns Roanoke city ($52,671) by $14,045 and Rockbridge County ($63,975) by $2,741, but trails Roanoke County ($82,931) and Rockingham County ($78,468). The city represents moderate prosperity in the region.

Housing costs stay manageable

Salem city's rent-to-income ratio of 18.8% indicates housing is affordable, consuming less than one-fifth of typical household earnings. The median home value of $244,800 equals about 3.7 years of gross household income—reasonable for families with modest savings.

Build wealth through steady planning

Salem city households earning $66,716 annually have meaningful capacity to build long-term wealth by taking advantage of affordable housing and focusing on consistent savings. Start with employer retirement benefits and tax-advantaged accounts, then gradually expand your investment portfolio as income and savings accumulate.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Salem city

via CrimeByCounty

Salem City maintains a Solid Record

Salem city maintains a total crime rate of 1872.1 per 100K, which is lower than the national average of 2,385.5. The city earns a high safety score of 97.0 based on these metrics.

Stable Security within the Commonwealth

The city's safety score of 97.0 is just below the Virginia state average of 97.3. While safe by national standards, it falls slightly behind the Commonwealth's exceptionally high safety benchmark.

Safer Alternative to Nearby Cities

Salem is significantly safer than neighboring Roanoke city, where the crime rate is 4886.4 per 100K. However, it tracks slightly higher than Roanoke County's rate of 1577.8.

Focus on Property Crime Reduction

Violent crime is very low at 126.1 per 100K, well below the state average of 229.7. Property crime represents the vast majority of local incidents at 1746.0 per 100K.

Protecting Your Salem Household

Because property crime is the primary concern in Salem, home security should be a priority for residents. Modern security tools help deter theft and keep these rates trending downward.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Salem city

via HealthByCounty

Life expectancy below national average

At 73.2 years, Salem city residents live nearly three years less than the U.S. average of 76.1 years, though only 14.9% report poor or fair health—among the lowest rates nationally. This suggests shorter lifespan despite relatively good self-reported wellness.

Lower life expectancy, strong wellness

Salem city's 73.2-year life expectancy trails Virginia's 75.1-year average by 1.9 years, yet its 14.9% poor/fair health rate ranks among the state's best. The disconnect points to specific mortality drivers beyond chronic disease burden.

Mixed health profile versus peers

Salem city outperforms Roanoke city in life expectancy (73.2 vs. 70.2 years) but significantly lags Roanoke County (77.5 years), reflecting a mid-range urban position. Its excellent self-reported health contrasts with life expectancy challenges.

Exceptional healthcare access

Salem city boasts 138 primary care providers and 879 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—among Virginia's highest densities—with just 5.5% uninsured. Despite robust healthcare infrastructure, the city's life expectancy gap warrants urgent investigation.

Leverage excellent coverage rates

Salem city's 94.5% insured rate provides a strong foundation, but ensuring all residents have coverage unlocks preventive and mental health care that might address underlying life expectancy challenges. Visit vacciness.gov to confirm your coverage and access Salem's abundant health resources.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Salem city

via SchoolsByCounty

Streamlined Urban Education in Salem City

Salem City manages a compact system of 9 public schools within a single district. The city serves 3,750 students across four elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school.

Steady Results Near State Benchmarks

With a graduation rate of 88.0%, Salem stays just ahead of the 87.0% national average. The city invests $7,926 per student, which aligns almost perfectly with the Virginia state average of $7,941.

Single District Focus in Salem City

Salem City Public Schools oversees all 3,750 students, ensuring a unified approach to local education. No charter schools operate in the city, with 100% of students attending traditional public institutions.

Suburban Schools with a Centralized Feel

Every school in the city is classified as suburban, featuring an average size of 625 students. Salem High is the largest campus by far, hosting 1,227 students and serving as a major community hub.

Find Your Place in Salem's Suburbs

If you are looking for a community with centralized, suburban schools and consistent investment, Salem is an ideal choice. Focus your home search here to benefit from a school system that mirrors the state's top performance metrics.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Salem city

via RiskByCounty

Salem city enjoys minimal disaster risk exposure

Salem city's composite risk score of 18.64 sits well below the national median, earning a "Very Low" rating across virtually all hazard categories. This small Appalachian city benefits from geographic protection and distance from major hazard zones.

Among Virginia's safest jurisdictions

Salem city's score of 18.64 ranks it among the lowest-risk areas in Virginia, substantially below the state average of 33.27. Only a few Virginia counties match this level of natural disaster resilience.

Safest area in the southwestern region

Salem city's 18.64 score edges out nearby Rockbridge County (33.30) and Russell County (36.55), standing as the safest jurisdiction in its region. Roanoke city (72.87) faces four times the composite risk, demonstrating Salem's protective geography.

Hurricane exposure is your only modest concern

Hurricane risk of 57.70 is Salem city's highest hazard score, surprising for a mountain city but reflecting statewide coastal influence. All other hazards—earthquake (49.05), flood (44.78), tornado (12.63), and wildfire (1.37)—pose minimal threat.

Standard homeowners insurance provides adequate protection

Salem city residents can rely on standard homeowners policies for most natural disasters, though those in flood-prone areas should verify coverage and elevation. Your composite risk of 18.64 is the state's lowest, making Salem one of Virginia's safest communities.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Lawn Care in Salem city

via LawnByCounty

Standard Urban Lawn Care in Salem

Salem city has a lawn difficulty score of 56.1, placing it slightly above the Virginia state average. This indicates a relatively accessible environment for homeowners compared to the national median of 50.0. While hardiness zone data is limited, the city’s climate generally mirrors the favorable conditions of the surrounding valley.

Abundant Rainfall with Average Heat

The city receives a healthy 45.7 inches of precipitation annually, which is excellent for maintaining turf without constant irrigation. Residents face 28 extreme heat days per year, which perfectly matches the Virginia state average. This balance of moisture and heat allows for a predictable maintenance routine through the summer months.

Proactive Soil Testing is Recommended

As specific soil composition data for Salem city is currently unavailable, a local soil test is the best first step for any gardener. Given the regional trends, you should expect to add lime to counteract natural acidity. Ensuring proper drainage in urban lots is also key to preventing root rot during the city's wetter months.

Navigating Half a Year of Dryness

Salem city experienced 26 weeks of drought over the past year, indicating that dry periods are a significant seasonal factor. Currently, 100% of the city is abnormally dry, which can stress lawns if not monitored closely. Prioritizing deep-root watering techniques can help your grass survive these frequent spells of low rainfall.

Best Practices for the Salem Climate

Tall Fescue is a reliable choice for the Salem area due to its ability to withstand both heat and temporary dry spells. Without specific local frost dates, following the general regional window of early fall for seeding is your best bet. With a little attention to soil health and irrigation, a thriving lawn is well within reach here.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Salem city's county score?
Salem city, Virginia has a composite county score of 43 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Salem city rank among counties in Virginia?
Salem city ranks #105 among all counties in Virginia on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Salem city, Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Salem city is $2,232, with an effective tax rate of 0.91%. This earns Salem city a tax score of 44.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Salem city?
The median household income in Salem city, Virginia is $66,716 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Salem city earns an income score of 58.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Salem city, Virginia a good place to live?
Salem city scores 43/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #105 in Virginia. The best way to evaluate Salem city is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Salem city with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.