Salem is surrounded by green pastures, fields of flowers, gardens, and vegetables. It is the capital city of Oregon and located in the center of the Willamette Valley with a population of 179,605. Salem offers the best of a big city and small town experience from crafters, artists and entrepreneurs. It is located 47 miles south of Portland and an hour from the Cascade Mountains and the ocean beaches. Salem's historic downtown buildings, diverse community with well-established neighborhoods, a family-friendly ambiance, and a small town feel draw families looking for homes. Both residents and visitors enjoy the beautiful parks and trails for walking and biking, you-pick fruit orchards, farmers markets, wine vineyards, shopping, arts and entertainment, restaurants, craft breweries, and the areas local history. The city of Salem has an elevation of 157 feet altitude.