| Statistic | Salem | Missouri | National |
| Population | 4,904 | 6,137,428 | 328,239,523 |
| Population density (sq mi) | 1,545 | 90 | 91 |
| Median age | 44.1 | 38.3 | 37.7 |
| Male/Female ratio | 0.8:1 | 1.0:1 | 1.0:1 |
| Married (15yrs & older) | 54% | 57% | 55% |
| Families w/ Kids under 18 | 55% | 42% | 43% |
| Speak English | 98% | 94% | 79% |
| Speak Spanish | 2% | 3% | 13% |
Salem demographics provide invaluable insights into the composition, dynamics and needs of urban and rural areas, enabling them to plan, develop, and govern in ways that promote prosperity, equity and well-being for all residents. The Salem population is 4,904 and has a population density of 1,545 people per square mile, compared to the national average of 91. The median age of all residents is 44.1, 54% of people 15 years of age or older are married and 55% have kids under the age of 18. In Salem, 47% of households have a median income that is below $25,000 and 2% of households report a median income above $150,000.
The Salem racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown serves as a critical tool for understanding and addressing systemic inequities, promoting social justice and inclusion and building stronger, more resilient communities. The racial breakdown in Salem is 91.8% White, 0.5% Black or African American, 0% Asian, 0.5% American Indian and 0% Native Hawaiian - 2% of the population identify as Hispanic or Latino. Of all households, 97.7% reported speaking English only, while 1.9% reported speaking Spanish only. A total of 0.7% of residents were considered foreign born.
Areas like Salem that have a higher than average population density tend to support environmental sustainability by reducing per capita energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and land use. Compact urban development encourages energy-efficient buildings, walking, cycling and the use of public transit, promoting sustainable lifestyles and reducing environmental impact. Densely populated areas also tend to have more vibrant social and cultural scenes, with a diverse population contributing to a wide array of cultural events, festivals and community activities. This diversity fosters creativity, innovation and cross-cultural exchange, enriching the social fabric of the community. The Salem population density is higher than average and comes in at 1,545 people per square mile (compared to the nationwide average of 91), putting it in a position to take advantage of all the benefits of a densely populated area.
A family-friendly city like Salem can prioritize the well-being and needs of families, creating an environment where children thrive, parents feel supported and families can enjoy a high quality of life together. Family-friendly cities are also known to foster a strong sense of community, with neighbors supporting and looking out for one another. These areas could also boast excellent educational opportunities, including high-quality schools, libraries and extracurricular activities. Access to quality education is essential for children's development and future success. By prioritizing the well-being of its residents, such cities become vibrant and resilient communities where families can truly flourish. In Salem, 55% of families have kids under the age of 18 and 54% of residents over 15 years old are married. These demographics put this area in a position to reap the benefits of a family-friendly area.
Social Cohesion: The examination and interpretation of demographics are pivotal for nurturing social cohesion and promoting understanding among diverse communities. By acknowledging and honoring differences in Salem demographics, societies can champion inclusivity, diversity and social cohesion while addressing social disparities and advocating for equitable opportunities. Racial demographics can potentially showcase the diversity of a population and are crucial for fostering inclusive and embracing communities. Embracing diversity fortifies social bonds, fosters cultural appreciation and enriches society by celebrating the contributions of individuals from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.
Urban Development: Urban planners can leverage demographics data in Salem to design and develop areas that cater to residents' needs, spanning housing, transportation, and public services, while prioritizing sustainability and enhancing quality of life. Demographic changes can contribute to gentrification and neighborhood evolution, whether in urban or rural contexts. As neighborhoods attract new residents with diverse income levels and lifestyle preferences, property values may appreciate, potentially displacing longstanding residents and reshaping the neighborhood's identity. Understanding population density, age distribution, household size and income levels is essential for guiding decisions on zoning, transportation infrastructure, housing development and public amenities. Incorporating Salem demographics data into planning and implementing affordable housing initiatives can help mitigate displacement risks.
Healthcare Planning: The analysis of Salem demographics can offer insights into healthcare planning and delivery, identifying population health needs, disparities and risk factors. By understanding demographic trends, healthcare providers and policymakers can allocate resources effectively, develop prevention and intervention programs and address health inequities within communities. Through the use of demographic data and statistics, healthcare providers and policymakers aim to achieve equitable, accessible and high-quality healthcare for all individuals and communities. This proactive approach to healthcare planning ensures targeted interventions, efficient resource allocation and customized healthcare services to meet the diverse needs of populations.
| Race | Salem | Missouri | National |
| White | 91.84% | 82.53% | 73.35% |
| Black | 0.53% | 11.58% | 12.63% |
| Asian | 0.00% | 1.78% | 5.22% |
| American Indian | 0.47% | 0.42% | 0.82% |
| Native Hawaiian | 0.00% | 0.11% | 0.18% |
| Mixed race | 6.22% | 2.44% | 3.06% |
| Other race | 0.94% | 1.13% | 4.75% |
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