Salem, Oregon has been recognized among HGTV’s list of the 20 best mid-size cities in the United States, placing the state’s capital city in distinguished company for its livability and appeal. Willamette University students enjoy a campus situated in Salem’s vibrant downtown core, providing easy and immediate access to the city’s cultural, dining, and entertainment options.
Praised by HGTV for its “easy access to outdoor recreation, open spaces, affordable housing and jobs,” Salem isn’t just home to Willamette’s historic campus; it’s a hub for arts, state government, food, sports and culture.
Salem offers students a distinctive blend of opportunities found nowhere else. From interning at the Oregon State Capitol, to doing research in old growth forests, to visiting local vendors at the bustling Saturday Market to locally-owned bookstores, specialty coffee bars, and vintage shops, this thriving city provides unmatched opportunities, all within walking distance from their home on campus.
Time between classes is spent enjoying the best Oregon’s capital city has to offer, not to mention Oregon’s world-renowned mountains, coastlines, forests, and vineyards within an hour’s drive.
Don’t take it from us. Hear directly from Willamette students as they share what makes Salem a great place to live and learn.
Jack Shostrom BA’26
Studying: Psychology
Hometown: Ashland, Oregon
“I think the walkability is what makes Salem great for students; everything important is less than 15 minutes walk away. And tons of interesting places in Oregon are within a one hour drive.”
Go-to study spot: Archive Coffee & Bar
Favorite place to grab a bite to eat: 503 Sushi in the Reed Opera House (especially for Ramune Japanese soda).
Best thing about the PNW: Space to explore the beach and the mountains, but also go to concerts in nearby bigger cities.
Emilee Cirbo BA’26
Studying: Archaeology and Art History
Hometown: Centennial, Colorado
“Salem is a homey city. Even though I am pretty far from home, I was able to meet great people at Willamette and that makes the city fun!”
Go-to study spot: Ike Box and The Gov Cup
Favorite Salem pastime: Going downtown with friends to shop at Engelberg Antiks or hang out at Riverfront Park.
Best thing about the PNW: Endless opportunities in the outdoors.
Augusta Castrodale BA’26
Studying: Psychology
Hometown: Seattle, Washington
“Salem has all the resources and amenities you'd want as a college student, but without it feeling like a ‘college town.’ There's plenty of coffee shops and parks and places to hang out, all walkable from Willamette, but Salem also has its own unique vibe that's not necessarily dependent on the students.”
Go-to study spot: The Salem Public Library, a lovely 15 minute walk from campus through Pringle Park.
Favorite Salem pastime: Having a picnic or throwing a frisbee in Salem’s beautiful parks.
Best thing about the PNW: Getting a bit of everything throughout the year, from skiing at Mt. Hood in the winter to camping and swimming in the summer.
