Salem is a charming city in the heart of the Willamette Valley that offers numerous attractions and a vibrant culture. From dozens of wineries to famous outdoor recreation, there’s something for everyone. However, if you’re considering making the move, there are a few important things to keep in mind, such as a wet climate and heavy traffic. But is Salem a good place to live?
Whether you’re considering buying a house in Salem or renting an apartment in the city, read on to learn more about this gem in the Pacific Northwest.
5 pros of living Salem
There are a lot of reasons to love Salem. Here are five of the best.
1. Plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities
Salem is located in the heart of the idyllic Willamette Valley, providing easy access to outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, rafting, and cycling. For a day trip, visit Silver Falls State Park for over 9,000 acres of beauty located just 20 miles east of the city. If you want to stay within city limits, there are plenty of options, including Minto-Brown Island Park, which has over 1,200 acres of wetlands and forests to explore.
2. Lots of activities for kids
There are plenty of activities year-round for people of all ages. Check out the Oregon State Fair, which features carnival rides, concerts, and agricultural exhibits, or the Gilbert House Children’s Museum, which offers hands-on exhibits and educational programs. Over the summer, there are numerous camps and daytime activities for kids and teens.
3. Home to well-known universities
Salem is home to Willamette University and Corban University, which provides the city with a young and lively atmosphere. These colleges also offer community activities, including community service, outdoor recreation, wellness programs, and educational lectures.
4. Thriving food and drink scene
Salem has a thriving food and drink scene, with numerous restaurants, cafes, and wineries. The city is known for its farm-to-table cuisine and award-winning wineries, many of which offer tastings and tours. With over 20 wineries in and around the city, visitors can enjoy tastings, tours, and events throughout the year.
Many wineries also offer stunning views of the Willamette Valley and tours of their vineyards.
5. Strong arts and culture scene
Salem is home to numerous museums, art galleries, and theaters, providing a diverse range of cultural experiences for people of all ages. The city also hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, showcasing local talent and celebrating the community.
Visit the Deepwood Museum & Gardens for beautiful scenery, or head over to the State Capitol for a guided tour of the iconic building.
5 cons of living in salem
Like any city, Salem has its downsides. Here are five important things to consider before making the move.
1. Unpredictable weather
If you’re moving to Salem, be sure to keep climate in mind.
Salem has a damp, mild climate, with cool winters and warm summers. The area receives a significant amount of rainfall during the fall and winter, which may turn to snow for a few days per year. It’s also one of the cloudiest cities in the country, which can be difficult to tolerate for many months. Weather can also turn exceptionally wet and windy, although that’s rare.
If you can make it through the winter, summers in Salem are warm and sunny.
2. Limited public transportation
Salem’s public transportation system is limited, with only a few bus routes and no light rail or commuter train service. Because of this, many residents rely on personal vehicles to get around the city. However, the city has made efforts to improve public transportation, such as expanding the bus system.
3. Heavy traffic
Salem’s location on I-5, the major north-south freeway through Oregon, can make traffic challenging during peak hours. Rush hour traffic can be especially slow, and there are limited alternative routes. However, the city has made efforts to improve traffic flow, including adding roundabouts and optimizing traffic signals.
4. Fewer job opportunities
Salem is a relatively small city, so there are limited job opportunities compared to larger Pacific Northwest cities like Seattle and Portland. Additionally, many of the jobs available in Salem are centered around the state government, which can limit the variety of industries available to job seekers.
5. Lack of entertainment options
While offering some options for dining, drinking, and entertainment, Salem isn’t known for its nightlife or variety of activities. The city has a limited number of bars, restaurants, and theaters, and entertainment options are relatively sparse compared to larger cities. You may want to travel to Portland for a more diverse range of activities, especially for concerts and sporting events.
Source: redfin.com