Merced vs Salem
Fair Market Rent Comparison — HUD 2025 Data
Quick Answer
Merced is 8% cheaper for renters. A 2-bedroom rents for $1,055/mo vs $1,137/mo in Salem — saving $984/year.
Rent by Unit Size
| Unit Size | Merced | Salem | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $696 | $741 | $45 |
| 1 Bedroom | $865 | $913 | $48 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,055 | $1,137 | $82 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,328 | $1,411 | $83 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,460 | $1,615 | $155 |
| Median Income | $60,958 | $53,953 | $7,005 |
Merced
- Studio
- $696/mo
- 1 BR
- $865/mo
- 2 BR
- $1,055/mo
- 3 BR
- $1,328/mo
- 4 BR
- $1,460/mo
- Median Income
- $60,958/yr
Salem
- Studio
- $741/mo
- 1 BR
- $913/mo
- 2 BR
- $1,137/mo
- 3 BR
- $1,411/mo
- 4 BR
- $1,615/mo
- Median Income
- $53,953/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Merced or Salem cheaper to rent in?
Merced is cheaper — a 2-bedroom Fair Market Rent is $1,055/mo vs $1,137/mo in Salem. That's $82/mo or $984/year more expensive in Salem (8% higher).
What is the 2-bedroom rent in Merced vs Salem?
The HUD Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom in Merced is $1,055/month. In Salem, a 2-bedroom FMR is $1,137/month.
How do incomes compare between Merced and Salem?
The median household income in Merced is $60,958/year. In Salem it is $53,953/year. Merced has the higher median income.
What is the studio rent in Merced vs Salem?
A studio apartment Fair Market Rent in Merced is $696/mo. In Salem it is $741/mo.