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
Demographic | Amount |
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Real Estate Tax Rate per $100 assessed valuation | $1.20 |
Personal Property Tax Rate per $100 assessed valuation | $3.20 |
Population 1900 Census | 3,412 |
Population 1910 Census | 3,849 |
Population 1920 Census | 4,159 |
Population 1930 Census | 4,833 |
Population 1940 Census | 5,737 |
Population 1950 Census | 6,823 |
Population 1960 Census | 16,058 |
Population 1970 Census | 21,982 |
Population 1980 Census | 23,959 |
Population 1990 Census | 23,756 |
Population 2000 Census | 24,747 |
Population 2010 Census | 24,802 |
Population 2020 Census | 25,346 |
Area in square miles | 14.31 |
Elevation above sea level in feet | 1,075 |
Miles of paved streets | 133.21 |
Miles of graveled streets | 60 |
Miles of paved alleys | 6.15 |
Miles of unimproved streets | 4 |