Let the numbers do the talking.
Medford, OR vs Salem, OR
Medford, OR vs Salem, OR: What the data shows
Medford, OR is in Medford, 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 — $22,700 less than Medford, OR's $297,600. WYLT rates Medford, OR as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Salem, OR as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Medford, OR has the stronger safety profile of the two. Medford, OR has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Salem, OR has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Medford, OR has Low flood risk and Salem, OR has Low flood risk.
Salem, OR is the more walkable neighborhood. Medford, OR scores N/A/100 versus Salem, OR's 33/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Medford, OR has the higher school rating — Medford, OR rates 8.2/10 and Salem, OR rates 8/10.
| Category | Medford, OR | Salem, OR |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $298K | $275K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $59K ✓ Higher income | $53K |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 33/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 1/100 | 14/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 1/100 | 18/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 90 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 | 8.2/10 ✓ Better schools | 8/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesStudentsRemote workers | FamiliesStudentsFirst‑time homebuyers |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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