- Salem is the capital city of the U.S. state of Oregon. It is located in the Willamette Valley region and has a population of about 173,000 people, making it the second largest city in Oregon after Portland. Salem is known for its historic downtown area, which features a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The city is also home to numerous parks and gardens, including the Oregon State Capitol, Bush's Pasture Park, and the Minto-Brown Island Park. Salem has a relatively mild climate with warm summers and cool winters, and it is surrounded by picturesque views of mountains, farmland, and vineyards. As the state capital, Salem is a hub for government and administrative services, but it also has a diverse economy with industries such as healthcare, education, technology, and agriculture.