Let the numbers do the talking.
Bend, OR vs Salem, OR
Bend, OR vs Salem, OR: What the data shows
Bend, OR is in Bend, OR while Salem, OR is in Salem, OR — both in the same state. On home prices, Salem, OR is the more affordable option at $274,900 median — $213,300 less than Bend, OR's $488,200. WYLT rates Bend, OR as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Salem, OR as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Bend, OR has the stronger safety profile of the two. Bend, OR has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Salem, OR has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Bend, OR has Low flood risk and Salem, OR has Low flood risk.
Salem, OR is the more walkable neighborhood. Bend, OR scores 7/100 (car-dependent) versus Salem, OR's 33/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Bend, OR has the higher school rating — Bend, OR rates 8.6/10 and Salem, OR rates 8/10.
| Category | Bend, OR | Salem, OR |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $488K | $275K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $72K ✓ Higher income | $53K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 7/100 | 33/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 14/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 31/100 ✓ More bikeable | 18/100 |
| Commute | 120 min | 35 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.6/10 ✓ Better schools | 8/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesOutdoor enthusiastsRemote workers | FamiliesStudentsFirst‑time homebuyers |
Bottom line
If you prioritize outdoor activities and a slightly higher-end lifestyle, Bend may be the better choice, despite its higher cost of living and longer commute to Portland. For those on a budget or seeking a more affordable option with decent schools and a shorter commute, Salem's lower median home price and proximity to Portland make it a more practical choice. Overall, the decision between Bend and Salem depends on your individual priorities regarding lifestyle, budget, and commute.
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