Keyser, WV vs Salem, WV

Salem is moderately more affordable than Keyser, with a 12.9% lower cost of living index. Keyser scores 62 compared to 55 for Salem, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Keyser can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Keyser is $631/month compared to $570/month in Salem — a 11% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Salem is more affordable at $77,200 median vs $141,400.

Median household income in Keyser is $47,991 compared to $43,690 in Salem (+9.8%). The higher salaries in Keyser partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Keyser spend roughly 15.8% of their income on rent, more than the 15.7% in Salem.