Roanoke Sun

Of the 25,335 citizens living in Salem city in 2021, 96.5% said they were only one race, while 3.5% said they were two or more races, according to U.S. Census Bureau data obtained in June.

The most prevalent racial group among citizens in Salem city who reported being of a single race in 2021 was white, comprising 86% or 21,788 individuals. Following them, African American accounted for 7.2% and totaled 1,817 individuals.

The percentage of multiracial residents in Salem city is 2.4% lower than the state average, which stands at 5.9%.

An agency of the U.S. Federal Statistical System, the Census Bureau is responsible for compiling statistical facts about the American people, places and economy. Data for this story was compiled from the bureau's American Community Survey. Information from the survey helps to determine how federal and state funds are distributed. These funds significantly influence community services, education, and infrastructure in areas like Salem city.

	Estimated Total
White	21,788
African American	1,817
Multiracial	897
Asian	469
Some Other Race	315
American Indian or Alaska Native	28
Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander	21

Source: US Census Bureau