Median Age
36 Years
Largest Age Group
5-14 Years
Approximately 16% of Residents
Under 20
30%
Over 65
16%
Area Guide
Avg Rent
$1,452
Population
6,273
Renter Mix
72% Rent
Salem, New Jersey carries more than three centuries of American history in its streets, making it one of the oldest cities in the state. Settled in 1675 by English Quakers, Salem sits along the Salem River in the southwestern corner of New Jersey, just a short drive from Wilmington, Delaware and the broader Philadelphia metro area. That proximity to larger economic centers gives residents access to big-city job markets while enjoying a slower, more grounded pace of life at home.
The city's neighborhoods range from tree-lined blocks of Federal and Victorian architecture near the historic district to more modest residential streets closer to the waterfront. Salem County's agricultural roots still shape the local identity, and the region is known for producing some of the finest tomatoes in the country. Anchored by Salem Medical Center and various county government offices, the local economy draws a range of workers who appreciate affordable, accessible housing.
Rentals in Salem lean toward single-family homes and smaller multi-unit buildings that reflect the city's historic character. Apartment communities here tend to be lower-rise and close-knit in scale, offering a departure from the high-rise density found in larger cities. For renters seeking history, affordability, and a genuine small-city feel within reach of the Northeast Corridor, Salem presents a compelling case.
You'll find plenty of small retail stores in downtown Salem for everyday needs.
Explore the native species of Supawna Meadows Wildlife Refuge just minutes from Salem.
The Old Salem County Courthouse is a historical building dating back to 1735.
Fort Mott State Park has a small beach along the Delaware River.
Get your steps in on the walking path that weaves through Fort Mott State Park, north of Salem.
Take a stroll through Fenwick Plaza in Salem and take in the gorgeous murals.
Median Household Income
$34,125
Average: $45,902
Education
628
Residents Have a Degree
Job Market
2,224
Workers Employed
Median Age
36 Years
Largest Age Group
5-14 Years
Approximately 16% of Residents
Under 20
30%
Over 65
16%
Housing Distribution
Salem has more renters than homeowners.
Education Distribution
Review this city's overall education levels.
As of June 2026, the average apartment rent in Salem, NJ is $1,452 for one bedroom, and $1,382 for two bedrooms. Apartment rent in Salem has increased by 1.2% in the past year.
Explore how walkable, bikeable, drivable, and transit-friendly Salem, NJ is for everyday living.
Somewhat Walkable
Walkability
Limited Public Transit
Transit
Exceptionally Drivable
Drivability
Somewhat Bikeable
Bikeability
Public
Grades PK-8
171 Students
Public
Grades K-8
117 Students
Lower Alloways Creek Elementary School
Public
Grades PK-8
177 Students
Public
Grades K-8
487 Students
John Fenwick Elementary School
Public
Grades PK-5
411 Students
Public
Grades PK-8
171 Students
Public
Grades K-8
117 Students
Lower Alloways Creek Elementary School
Public
Grades PK-8
177 Students
Public
Grades K-8
487 Students
Public
Grades 9-12
420 Students
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
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© 2026. All rights reserved.
† Our analysis of utilities, groceries, transportation, healthcare, home prices, and other goods and services is sourced from the Cost of Living Index, a respected benchmark published by the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER) that provides a thorough overview of living expenses across different regions.
Rent data is provided by CoStar Group’s Market Trend reports. As the industry leader in commercial real estate information, analytics, and news, CoStar conducts extensive research to produce and maintain a comprehensive database of commercial real estate information. We combine this data with public record to provide the most up-to-date rental information available.
Consumer goods, services, and home prices are sourced from the Cost of Living Index published by the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER). The data on this page is updated quarterly. It was last published in June 2026.
Demographic information comes from Neustar and combines detailed address data with U.S. Census and American Community Survey statistics to produce reliable local estimates.