Salem city, Virginia Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Salem city is located in Virginia with a total population of 25,477. It is the 70th most populous county out of 133 in Virginia. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Salem city is 40.3 years. This is 4% higher than the state median of 38.8 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Salem city is $66,716. This is 27% lower than the state median of $90,974. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 15% lower. The poverty rate stands at 10.9%. This is 9% higher than the state poverty rate of 9.9%. The unemployment rate is 3.4%. This is 20% lower than the state rate of 4.3%. The median home value is $244,800. Housing costs are 32% lower than the state median of $360,700. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.7x. 63.5% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 5% lower than the state average of 67.2%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Salem city is White (non-Hispanic), making up 82.4% of the population. Black or African American residents account for 7.7%. The Black or African American population (7.7%) is well below the state average of 18.4%. The Hispanic or Latino population (4.5%) is well below the state average of 10.7%. The Asian population (1.9%) is well below the state average of 6.8%.

Education

31.1% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 25% lower than the state rate of 41.5%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 94.2%.