Salem, Oregon

Salem, the Oregon state capital and its second-largest city, is set on the Willamette River, in the fertile Willamette Valley. This combination means government services and agriculture are significant players in Salem's economy.

The area's fertile soil means more than just excellent edibles and vast vineyards! There is also an abundance of flowers to be admired and bought at sites like Adelman Peony Gardens, Brooks Gardens, Frey's Dahlias, Havenhill Lavender, Heirloom Roses, and Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm. And to view blooming and non-blooming plants, spend a pleasant day strolling the Delbert Hunter Arboretum and Botanic Garden, the 20+ specialty gardens of the Oregon Garden, and the six acres (2.43 hectares) of English gardens at the Historic Deepwood Estate.

Salem's location also means that there are plenty of places nearby to explore the great outdoors, such as at the Champoeg State Heritage Area, with forest, fields, and wetlands, and at the Detroit Lake State Recreation Area and Silver Falls State Park in the Cascade Mountains. (And don't worry – you'll have great weather to enjoy your time outdoors: January highs average at 47F [8C] and July/August highs average at 82F [28C].)

If you want spectator sports, head out to home games of the Salem Stampede of the International Basketball League, or the Salem-Keizer Volcanoes (a Class A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants).

There are also plenty of festivals to enjoy in and around Salem, such as the Salem Film Festival (held at the Historic Elsinore Theatre) in April, the Keizer Station Iris Festival in May, the Salem World Beat Festival and Silverton Strawberry Festival in June, the Bite of Salem in July, and the Oregon State Fair in August/September.

And if you're looking for performing arts, trips to Oregon Symphony Association in Salem performances and Pentacle Theatre performances will be just what you need.

Kids of all ages will enjoy spending time at the Enchanted Forest theme park and Thrill-Ville USA amusement park, while bigger kids may want to drive out to Spirit Mountain Casino, which is located about 32 miles (51 kilometers) east in Grand Ronde.

Another great thing about Salem is that you're only 47 miles (76 kilometers) south of Portland and about 59 miles (95 kilometers) inland from the Pacific.

So much to do! Start planning your move now!

See our 12 Jobs in Salem, Oregon