Salem vs San Luis Obispo
Fair Market Rent Comparison — HUD 2025 Data
Quick Answer
Salem is 43% cheaper for renters. A 2-bedroom rents for $1,137/mo vs $1,623/mo in San Luis Obispo — saving $5,832/year.
Rent by Unit Size
| Unit Size | Salem | San Luis Obispo | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $741 | $1,065 | $324 |
| 1 Bedroom | $913 | $1,360 | $447 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,137 | $1,623 | $486 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,411 | $2,039 | $628 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,615 | $2,372 | $757 |
| Median Income | $53,953 | $94,761 | $40,808 |
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
San Luis Obispo
- Studio
- $1,065/mo
- 1 BR
- $1,360/mo
- 2 BR
- $1,623/mo
- 3 BR
- $2,039/mo
- 4 BR
- $2,372/mo
- Median Income
- $94,761/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Salem or San Luis Obispo cheaper to rent in?
Salem is cheaper — a 2-bedroom Fair Market Rent is $1,137/mo vs $1,623/mo in San Luis Obispo. That's $486/mo or $5,832/year more expensive in San Luis Obispo (43% higher).
What is the 2-bedroom rent in Salem vs San Luis Obispo?
The HUD Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom in Salem is $1,137/month. In San Luis Obispo, a 2-bedroom FMR is $1,623/month.
How do incomes compare between Salem and San Luis Obispo?
The median household income in Salem is $53,953/year. In San Luis Obispo it is $94,761/year. San Luis Obispo has the higher median income.
What is the studio rent in Salem vs San Luis Obispo?
A studio apartment Fair Market Rent in Salem is $741/mo. In San Luis Obispo it is $1,065/mo.