Cost of Living in Marion County, Florida
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 #2,848 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 9%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Marion County, Florida
Marion's rent burden sits slightly above national norms
Marion County residents spend 24.1% of their income on rent, compared to a national median of roughly 28-30% for renters—positioning the county as relatively affordable nationwide. However, the median household income of $58,535 lags nearly $16,000 behind the national median of $74,755, meaning renters stretch smaller paychecks further.
Marion ranks mid-tier in Florida affordability
With a rent-to-income ratio of 24.1%, Marion sits just slightly above Florida's state average of 22.5%, placing it roughly in the middle of the state's 67 counties for rental affordability. The median gross rent of $1,174 is competitive, running $59 below the state average.
Outpaced by wealthier Central Florida peers
Marion's median rent of $1,174 undercuts Orange County ($1,675) and Okaloosa ($1,475), but the county's lower household income means residents feel the pinch more acutely. Compared to its northern neighbor Nassau County ($1,335 rent, $88,900 income), Marion offers cheaper housing but with significantly lower earning power.
Rent claims a quarter of Marion paychecks
A typical Marion renter earning $58,535 annually pays $1,174 monthly in rent—consuming 24.1% of gross income. Homeowners fare better, with median owner costs of $806 per month, or about 16.5% of income.
Consider Marion for rural affordability
If you're relocating from pricier Florida markets and value cost of living, Marion County offers affordable rents and modest home values around $220,800. Compare this county's stability against Orange County's higher costs but greater job diversity to make the best choice for your budget and career.
Cost of Living Advisory: Marion County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Marion County is affordable. The median rent is $1,174/month against a median household income of $58,535, putting rent at 24.1% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Marion County pay $1,174/month on average, compared to $806/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 31%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $46,960/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $34,543/year. With a median household income of $58,535, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 31.0% of renter households in Marion County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Sumter County where rent averages $1,225/month, Marion County is approximately 4% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Marion County
Rent Burden
24.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,366
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.5%
of gross income
The median home in Marion County may be a stretch
Median home value is $220,800. Estimated monthly cost: $1,763 vs. your max of $1,366.
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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