Statistic Salem New Jersey National
Population 4,860 9,226,043 336,919,644
Population density (sq mi) 2,073 1,255 91
Median age 31.8 39.5 37.7
Male/Female ratio 0.8:1 1.0:1 1.0:1
Married (15yrs & older) 36% 56% 55%
Families w/ Kids under 18 63% 45% 43%
Speak English 91% 69% 79%
Speak Spanish 8% 16% 13%
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Local Insights Report

Overview of Salem Demographics

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 4,860 and has a population density of 2,073 people per square mile, compared to the national average of 91. The median age of all residents is 31.8, 36% of people 15 years of age or older are married and 63% have kids under the age of 18. In Salem, 57% of households have a median income that is below $25,000 and 4% of households report a median income above $150,000.

Salem Racial Demographics & Ethnicity

The Salem racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown could be indispensable tools for recognizing and rectifying systemic inequities, fostering social justice and inclusion and cultivating resilient communities. In Salem, the racial breakdown reveals 30.3% White, 63% Black or African American, 0.5% Asian, 0% American Indian and 0% Native Hawaiian, with 11.2% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Of all households, 91.1% reported speaking English only, while 8.1% reported speaking Spanish only. Moreover, 1.5% of residents were classified as foreign-born.

Salem Population Density

In areas with high population density, residents enjoy a wealth of amenities and services conveniently located within walking distance or a short commute. Access to healthcare facilities, educational institutions, cultural venues, dining options, retail stores and public transit enhances residents' quality of life and overall well-being. Salem has a population density of 2,073 people per square mile, which far exceeds the national average of 91 and ranks among the most densely populated cities in the country.

Is Salem Family Friendly?

Salem, as a family-friendly city, places a significant emphasis on the well-being and needs of families, fostering an environment where children thrive, parents feel supported and families can collectively enjoy a high quality of life. These cities are characterized by their strong sense of community, with neighbors actively supporting and looking out for one another. Additionally, they often offer exceptional educational opportunities, including top-quality schools, well-stocked libraries and diverse 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, 63% of families have children under the age of 18, and 36% of residents aged over 15 are married. These demographics position this area to reap the benefits of being a family-friendly locality.

Why are Demographics Important?

Urban Development: Urban planners could use Salem demographic data to design and create areas that accommodate the needs of residents, including housing, transportation and public services, while promoting sustainability and quality of life. Demographic shifts can contribute to gentrification and neighborhood change in urban or rural areas. As neighborhoods attract new residents with different income levels and lifestyle preferences, property values may rise, leading to displacement of long-time residents and changes in the character and identity of the neighborhood. Understanding population density, age distribution, household size and income levels helps inform decisions related to zoning, transportation infrastructure, housing development and public amenities. Lastly, using Salem demographics for planning and development of affordable housing can help prevent displacement.

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.

Policy Planning: Demographic data and statistics can inform policy and decision-making processes at various levels of government, as well as in organizations and businesses. By reporting and analyzing Salem demographics data, policymakers, government officials and organizational leaders can identify areas of need, allocate resources effectively and develop targeted policies and programs that address the specific needs and priorities of different demographic groups. Salem demographics can play a crucial role in policy planning by informing resource allocation, evidence-based decision making, identifying priorities, forecasting future trends, monitoring policy impact and promoting equity and inclusion. By leveraging this data effectively, policymakers can develop policies that are targeted, effective and responsive to the needs of diverse communities.

Demographics Quick Facts

  • The population density in Salem is 65% higher than New Jersey
  • The median age in Salem is 19% lower than New Jersey
  • In Salem 30.33% of the population is White
  • In Salem 63.01% of the population is Black
  • In Salem 0.46% of the population is Asian

Compare Salem, NJ Demographics

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      Salem racial demographics

      Race Salem New Jersey National
      White 30.33% 68.15% 73.35%
      Black 63.01% 13.54% 12.63%
      Asian 0.46% 9.19% 5.22%
      American Indian 0.00% 0.21% 0.82%
      Native Hawaiian 0.00% 0.03% 0.18%
      Mixed race 5.99% 2.53% 3.06%
      Other race 0.21% 6.35% 4.75%
      In Salem, 11.2% of people are of Hispanic or Latino origin.
      Please note: Hispanics may be of any race, so also are included in any/all of the applicable race categories above.

      Household income distribution

      Place of birth by citizenship

      Salem age breakdown

      Marital status

      Age of children in married couples

      Source: The Salem, NJ demographics data displayed above is derived from the United States Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) and include 2026 modeled data developed using proprietary methodologies.