About Salem

Salem was founded in 1802, and the first charter was granted in 1806 to "The Town of Salem in the County of Botetourt." The present charter was granted by the General Assembly in 1968, upon petition of the now City of Salem, to reflect the necessary change since Salem has become a City.

The City owns and operates its water system, electric distribution system, and sewerage system. The rates for these services compare favorably with the surrounding territory and the State as a whole.

Situated in the Shenandoah Valley between the Allegheny and Blue Ridge Mountains on the Roanoke River, Salem possesses all the beauty and grandeur that nature can bestow.

Facts About Salem

DemographicAmount
Real Estate Tax Rate per $100 assessed valuation$1.20
Personal Property Tax Rate per $100 assessed valuation$3.20
Population 1900 Census3,412
Population 1910 Census3,849
Population 1920 Census4,159
Population 1930 Census4,833
Population 1940 Census5,737
Population 1950 Census6,823
Population 1960 Census16,058
Population 1970 Census21,982
Population 1980 Census23,959
Population 1990 Census23,756
Population 2000 Census24,747
Population 2010 Census24,802
Population 2020 Census25,346
Area in square miles14.31
Elevation above sea level in feet1,075
Miles of paved streets133.21
Miles of graveled streets60
Miles of paved alleys6.15
Miles of unimproved streets4