Cost of Living in Marion County, Alabama
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Marion County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Marion County ranks #757 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 24%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Marion County, Alabama
Marion County offers solid affordability
Marion County's 13.8% rent-to-income ratio ranks among Alabama's best, falling well below the national average of 18.0%. At $583 monthly rent on a $50,714 median income, residents enjoy genuine housing affordability despite modest earnings.
Top-tier affordability statewide
Marion County ranks among Alabama's most affordable counties for renters, with a 13.8% rent-to-income ratio that outperforms the state average. The combination of low rent and reasonable income creates one of the state's best housing-value propositions.
Cheapest rent, solid income balance
Marion County's $583 median rent is the lowest in this group, while the 13.8% affordability ratio beats all neighbors except Limestone and Madison. This positions Marion as a standout option for budget-conscious renters seeking genuine housing relief.
Efficient housing, tight overall budgets
Renters pay just $583 monthly while homeowners pay $529 on a $50,714 income, consuming only 13.8% for rent and roughly 12.5% for ownership. Marion County's low housing burden is genuine—residents have more discretionary income than most regional peers.
Marion County: hidden gem for renters
If low rent matters most, Marion County delivers the best rates in this group without sacrificing income levels or community stability. Both renters and homebuyers will find exceptional value, making Marion County worth serious consideration for relocators.
Cost of Living Advisory: Marion County
Affordability Verdict
Marion County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $583/month representing approximately 13.8% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 27.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Marion County is $583/month, while owner costs run $529/month. Owning saves approximately $54/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $23,320/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $22,671/year. With a median household income of $50,714, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Marion County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Alabama, Marion County is less affordable than Bullock County by roughly 8% ($583/mo vs $635/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Marion County
Rent Burden
13.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,183
per month
Owner Cost Burden
12.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Marion County
Median home value is $104,300. Estimated monthly cost: $833 vs. your max of $1,183.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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