Willamette Valley
Salem, Oregon
City
Oregon's capital, spanning the Willamette in Marion and Polk counties
Salem is Oregon's capital and its third-largest city, spread across both Marion and Polk counties on the Willamette River. State government, health care and agriculture anchor the economy.
History & Local Character
Salem was founded in 1842 by Methodist missionaries and became the territorial capital in 1851. The 1935 fire that destroyed the first capitol led to the current marble building, completed in 1938.
Housing & Real Estate
Salem has historic homes in the Court-Chemeketa and Gaiety Hill districts, mid-century neighborhoods, and newer subdivisions in south and west Salem. Prices are well below Portland's.
Restaurants & Shopping
Downtown Salem has restaurants and breweries along Commercial and Court streets, while West Salem and south Salem add neighborhood options. The city is known for its Mexican, Vietnamese and farm-to-table restaurants.
Schools & Education
Salem-Keizer Public Schools is one of Oregon's largest districts, serving Salem and Keizer. Willamette University, Chemeketa Community College and Corban University are in or near the city.
Parks & Recreation
Minto-Brown Island Park, Bush's Pasture Park and Riverfront City Park offer trails and river access, and the Willamette River bridges connect the two halves of the city.
Transportation & Accessibility
I-5 runs east of downtown, with OR 22 heading west to the coast and east over the Cascades. Amtrak's Cascades and Coast Starlight stop at the Salem station, and Cherriots provides local bus service.
Local Businesses
Breweries and coffee roastersFarm-to-table restaurantsIndependent shops downtownGarden centers
Nearby Attractions
- Oregon State Capitol
- Willamette University
- Bush's Pasture Park
- Minto-Brown Island Park
- Silver Falls State Park
Advantages & Considerations
Advantages
- State government and stable employment
- Lower housing costs than Portland
- Good parks and river access
Considerations
- Limited nightlife compared with Portland
- Long commute to Portland jobs
- Traffic on I-5 and Market Street
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Salem in Marion County?
Most of Salem is in Marion County, and the city extends across the Willamette River into Polk County. The city has one government regardless of county lines.
Is Salem the capital of Oregon?
Yes. Salem has been Oregon's capital since 1851, when it was the territorial capital, and the current Capitol building dates to 1938.