Let the numbers do the talking.
Hillsboro, OR vs Salem, OR
Hillsboro, OR vs Salem, OR: What the data shows
Hillsboro, OR is in Hillsboro, 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 — $182,800 less than Hillsboro, OR's $457,700. WYLT rates Hillsboro, OR as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Salem, OR as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Hillsboro, OR has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Salem, OR has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Hillsboro, OR has Low flood risk and Salem, OR has Low flood risk.
Salem, OR is the more walkable neighborhood. Hillsboro, OR scores 7/100 (car-dependent) versus Salem, OR's 33/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Hillsboro, OR has the higher school rating — Hillsboro, OR rates 8.6/10 and Salem, OR rates 8/10.
| Category | Hillsboro, OR | Salem, OR |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $458K | $275K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $101K ✓ Higher income | $53K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 7/100 | 33/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 2/100 | 14/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 18/100 | 18/100 |
| Commute | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute | 35 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | 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 | Families with childrenProfessionals who commute to PortlandDog owners looking for parks | FamiliesStudentsFirst‑time homebuyers |
Bottom line
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