Survey Shows Early Gains in Salem's Sense of Safety

A recent survey of Salem residents showed a slight improvement in attitude regarding community safety since measures were implemented under the Safe, Clean and Healthy Salem initiative.

The survey, conducted by DHM Research in early February, used the same questions on the topic as were asked in September 2025 on the annual Community Satisfaction Survey. That survey happened before Safe, Clean and Healthy measures were taken, including:

• adding Homeless Services Team police officer to expand coverage to seven days a week
• adding Clean Salem Team staff to expand coverage to seven days a week
• piloting the Rapid Engagement, Assessment & Community Health (REACH) team, a partnership between Salem Fire and Marion County mental health professionals

Overall, the survey showed sense of safety has improved in most areas, but varied based on factors such as age, gender, income and race. Attitudes improved the most among women, older residents and people with higher incomes.

Attitude regarding the north/northeast area of Salem saw the most improvement but also started at the lowest level. Perceptions of safety downtown at night also saw some improvements.

The survey also showed that most residents feel safest in their own neighborhoods.

City of Salem Safety and Livability Survey Report February 2026