AI-Scored Rankings • Updated 2026-04-03

Best Apartments in Salem, OR — Scored by AI

ListWise scores every Salem neighborhood on safety, walkability, schools, commute time, and rental value. See which areas actually match your lifestyle — not just what's cheapest.

$1,350/mo
Median Rent
178,510
Population
8
Neighborhoods Scored
State of Oregon
Top Employer
Local Insights

Why Salem? What Renters Need to Know

Salem's cost of living is about 8% above the national average, mainly driven by housing. Median rent is around $1,350/month.

Quick Facts

Population 178,510
Median Rent $1,350/mo
Top Employer State of Oregon
Neighborhoods 8 scored by AI
Rent vs. National$1,350 vs $1,500 national median

Rent Comparison

Salem median rent is $150 below the national median of $1,500/mo — an affordable market.

Largest Employer

The largest employer in Salem is State of Oregon, making the Downtown Salem area and nearby neighborhoods popular for commuters looking to minimize travel time.

Top Neighborhoods

Top Neighborhoods in Salem

Ranked by ListWise's composite AI score. Top 3 shown free — unlock all 8 for the full picture.

#1

Downtown Salem

Score: 84/100
Safety B+
Walk Score 78
Avg Rent $1,400
Schools 6/10
#2

South Salem

Score: 82/100
Safety A
Walk Score 42
Avg Rent $1,450
Schools 8/10
#3

West Salem

Score: 80/100
Safety A-
Walk Score 38
Avg Rent $1,350
Schools 7/10

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#4

Keizer

Score: 78/100
Safety A-
Walk Score 40
Avg Rent $1,300
Schools 7/10
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#5

Northeast Salem

Score: 76/100
Safety B+
Walk Score 50
Avg Rent $1,200
Schools 6/10
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#6

Hayesville

Score: 74/100
Safety B+
Walk Score 35
Avg Rent $1,250
Schools 7/10
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#7

Four Corners

Score: 72/100
Safety B
Walk Score 32
Avg Rent $1,150
Schools 6/10
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#8

Bush Park Area

Score: 71/100
Safety A
Walk Score 55
Avg Rent $1,500
Schools 8/10
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See All 8 Salem Neighborhoods Ranked

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How It Works

How ListWise Scores Salem Apartments

1

Tell Us Your Priorities

Rank what matters: safety, schools, walkability, commute, budget, nightlife. Every Salem renter is different.

2

AI Scores Every Listing

We pull real-time data from MLS, crime stats, school ratings, transit APIs, and walk score databases for Salem.

3

Get Your Ranked List

Receive a PDF + Excel report with Salem properties ranked by YOUR priorities. Delivered within 24 hours.

FAQ

Frequently Asked About Salem

What is the cost of living in Salem, OR?

Salem's cost of living is about 8% above the national average, mainly driven by housing. Median rent is around $1,350/month. No sales tax in Oregon helps.

Is Salem a good alternative to Portland?

Yes. Salem is 45 minutes south of Portland with lower housing costs, less congestion, and a more relaxed pace while still offering urban amenities.

What are the best neighborhoods in Salem?

South Salem has the best schools and safety. Bush Park Area is walkable and charming. West Salem offers good value.

What is the weather like?

Salem has mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Average temperatures range from 40°F in winter to 82°F in summer. Less rain than Portland.

What are the major employers?

State government is the top employer. Salem Health, Willamette University, and food processing companies are also significant employers.

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Data is for informational purposes only. Verify all information independently before making housing decisions.