Cost of Living in Marion County, Arkansas
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 #1,761 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 44%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Marion County, Arkansas
Marion County stretches housing dollars
Marion County renters face a 20.2% rent-to-income ratio, well above the national average of roughly 18%, signaling affordability strain. With the lowest household income in this cohort ($46,953), residents must allocate more earnings to rent than comparable national populations.
Marion County feels affordability pinch
Marion's rent-to-income ratio of 20.2% is the highest in this eight-county group and significantly above Arkansas's 18.1% state average. This reflects both lower household income and higher-than-median rents, placing Marion renters in the state's tighter affordability tier.
Marion rents strain local incomes
Marion County's $792 median rent ranks among the region's highest, yet household income of $46,953 is the lowest in the cohort, creating a perfect affordability storm. The 20.2% rent-to-income ratio far exceeds neighboring Little River (18.6%) and Madison County (16.2%).
Renters bear the heaviest load
Renters pay $792 monthly (20.2% of the $46,953 household income), consuming one-fifth of earnings—substantially more than the national benchmark. Homeowners fare better at $529 monthly (13.5% of income), suggesting that owning frees up income compared to renting.
Marion: weigh your options carefully
Marion County presents real affordability challenges for renters, with costs consuming over 20% of income; comparison shopping is essential. If you're relocating here, prioritize finding homeownership paths or consider neighboring counties like Madison or Logan for lower housing burdens.
Cost of Living Advisory: Marion County
Affordability Verdict
Marion County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $792/month representing approximately 20.2% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 24.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $792/month rent versus $529/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $263/month cheaper — a 33% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $31,680/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $22,671/year. With a median household income of $46,953, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in Marion County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Marion County sits 8% more expensive than Scott County ($736/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Marion County
Rent Burden
20.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,096
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.5%
of gross income
The median home in Marion County may be a stretch
Median home value is $158,400. Estimated monthly cost: $1,265 vs. your max of $1,096.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Marion County, Arkansas?
What is the median rent in Marion County?
Is Marion County affordable?
How does Marion County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Marion County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Marion County, Arkansas? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Marion County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.