Salem, MA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
44,795
1.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$85,153/yr
0.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
21,492
2.3% year-over-year change

Salem population

How many people live in Salem

Salem is home to 44,795 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 45.5% of Salem locals are male, and 54.5% are female.

Total population
44,795
1.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
45.5%
20,368
Female
54.5%
24,427
Value Percent YoY change
Male 20,368 45.5% 3.0%
Female 24,427 54.5% -0.2%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Salem is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 13.4% are children under 15, then 12.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 31.4% of the population, while another 25.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
13.4%
15 to 24
12.8%
25 to 44
31.4%
45 to 64
25.1%
Over 65
17.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,994 13.4% 1.7%
15 to 24 5,755 12.8% -9.0%
25 to 44 14,090 31.4% 1.5%
45 to 64 11,235 25.1% 3.5%
Over 65 7,721 17.2% 6.0%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Salem, 80.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 13.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 72.8% of locals are Caucasian, 4.9% are African American and 3.4% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 8.7% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 10% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
80.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
13.8%
Non-citizens
5.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 36,108 80.6% -0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 6,170 13.8% 5.8%
Non-citizens 2,517 5.6% 15.1%
Racial breakdown
White
72.8%
Black or African American
4.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
3.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
10%
Other
8.7%
Value Percent
White 32,609 72.8%
Black or African American 2,181 4.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 48 0.1%
Asian 1,502 3.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 36 0.1%
Two or more races 4,504 10%
Other 3,915 8.7%

Households in Salem

A peek inside Salem households

Salem has 20,267 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 51.6% are families, while the remaining 48.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
20,267
2.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
9,814
Family households
10,453
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 9,814 48.4% 5.3%
Family households 10,453 51.6% -0.1%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Salem

The housing landscape of Salem

Salem's housing consists of 21,492 units, with 23.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.1% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
21,492
2.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,145 23.9%
1 unit, attached 1,320 6.1%
2 units 3,743 17.4%
3 or 4 units 4,417 20.6%
5 to 9 units 1,970 9.2%
10 to 19 units 976 4.5%
20 to 49 units 1,844 8.6%
50 or more units 2,072 9.6%
Mobile home 5 0%
Homes built since 2020
133
41.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Salem

In Salem, the median construction year is 1938. About 51% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 10,951 51% 2.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 864 4% 0.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,264 5.9% 4.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,694 7.9% 17.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,650 7.7% 6.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,095 9.8% -6.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 577 2.7% -14.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,525 7.1% 3.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 739 3.4% -4.0%
Built in 2020 or later 133 0.6% 41.5%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Salem occupancy rates

Out of the 20,267 occupied housing units in Salem, 49.7% are owner-occupied, while 50.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
20,267
2.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
10,194
Owner occupied
10,073
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 10,194 50.3% 5.9%
Owner occupied 10,073 49.7% -0.9%
Unoccupied housing units
5.7%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Salem housing costs

Housing costs in Salem come to a median of $1,984 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,836.

Median housing costs per month
$1,984/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Salem
$1,836/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Salem

Salem education at a glance

About 26.9% of the population in Salem went to high school, while 18.3% pursued college studies. Another 6.8% earned an associate degree and 26% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 18.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,480 3.9% 4.2%
High school diploma 10,155 26.9% 5.3%
College diploma 6,895 18.3% 1.0%
Associate degree 2,565 6.8% 4.9%
Bachelor's degree 9,803 26% -4.3%
Graduate degree 6,856 18.2% 1.8%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Salem

How much people earn in Salem

The average annual household income in Salem was $109,427 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $85,153, reflecting a +0% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Salem
$109,427/year
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Salem
$85,153/year
0.0% year-over-year change

Salem income by age

In Salem, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $100,161. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $100,744 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $58,750, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $53,170 in earnings. Overall, 88% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $58,750 -8.1%
25 - 44 $100,161 2.1%
45 - 64 $100,744 -1.8%
Over 65 $53,170 7.2%
Above poverty level
37,657
Below poverty level
5,114
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 37,657 88% 2.5%
Below poverty level 5,114 12% -10.2%

Average renter income in Salem

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Salem, their median household income was $54,871 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 40.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$54,871
Rent-to-income ratio
40.2%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Salem

Workforce and job types in Salem

The job market in Salem is powered by 25,579 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 85.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 14.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7% run their own businesses, 66.1% are employed by private companies, and 13.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
25,579
-0.9% year-over-year change
White collar
21,957
Blue collar
3,622
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 21,957 85.8% -2.1%
Blue collar 3,622 14.2% 7.2%
Employer type
Self employees
7%
Private companies
66.1%
Governmental workers
13.3%
Not for profit companies
13.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,796 7% -10.7%
Private companies 16,901 66.1% -2.0%
Governmental workers 3,409 13.3% 4.8%
Not for profit companies 3,473 13.6% 5.2%
Unemployment rate
5.1%
-2.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Salem stands at 5.1%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Salem

How people get around in Salem

In Salem, the average commute time is 28 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 61.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 6.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
28 min
-4.7% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 15,466 61.8% -3.3%
Taxicab 364 1.4% 16.7%
Bus or trolleybus 202 0.8% 4.7%
Subway or elevated 258 1% N/A
Railroad 838 3.4% -20.3%
Motorcycle 24 0.1% -20.0%
Bicycle 179 0.7% -13.1%
Walk 1,665 6.6% 5.5%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Salem by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
01970 44,738 20,222 $85,041 $109,473

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Salem demographics 

What is the total population of Salem?

Salem has a total population of 44,795 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +1.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Salem?

The gender ratio in Salem is as follows:
  • 45.5% males (20,368 residents)
  • 54.5% females (24,427 residents)

What is the median age in Salem?

The median age in Salem is 39.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Salem?

The age distribution in Salem is as follows:
  • Under 15: 13.4% (5,994 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.8% (5,755 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 31.4% (14,090 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.1% (11,235 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.2% (7,721 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Salem?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Salem is as follows:
  • White: 72.8% (32,609 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.9% (2,181 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (48 residents)
  • Asian: 3.4% (1,502 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (36 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10% (4,504 residents)
  • Other: 8.7% (3,915 residents)

What percentage of the population in Salem are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 80.6% of the population in Salem.

How many housing units are there in Salem?

There are 21,492 housing units in Salem, reflecting a +2.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Salem and what is the average household size?

Salem has a total of 20,267 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Salem?

Salem has a median household income of $85,153, representing a +0.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Salem?

The employment rate is 94.9% in Salem, with a workforce of 25,579 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 85.8% (21,957 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 14.2% (3,622 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7% (1,796 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.1% (16,901 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.3% (3,409 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.6% (3,473 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025