Cost of Living in Marion County, Georgia
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 #1,279 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 41%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Marion County, Georgia
Marion County offers genuine affordability
Marion County's 17.0% rent-to-income ratio beats both the national standard and Georgia's 18.6% average—a rare affordable option. Despite a median household income of just $50,484 (32% below national), the $717 monthly rent keeps housing manageable for local residents.
Georgia's most affordable rental market
Marion County ranks among Georgia's most affordable counties for renters, with $717 monthly rent running 23% below the state average. This exceptional affordability persists despite lower-than-average incomes, making it a bright spot in Georgia's housing landscape.
Lowest rent in the entire region
Marion County's $717 rent is the region's cheapest, undercutting Macon County ($624 by comparison reflects poverty not opportunity) and trailing only ultra-rural options. Compared to nearby Madison County ($951) and Lowndes County ($1,002), Marion offers substantial savings.
Minimal rent burden, attainable ownership
Marion County renters dedicate just 17% of their $50,484 income to $717 monthly rent, leaving exceptional flexibility for other expenses and savings. Homebuyers face even lower monthly costs of $730 against median values of just $122,100—among Georgia's most achievable ownership barriers.
Rural affordability meets opportunity
Marion County delivers genuine housing affordability for both renters and prospective homebuyers without requiring six-figure incomes. If you prioritize low costs, small-town character, and realistic homeownership paths, Marion County ranks among Georgia's most accessible communities for budget-conscious relocators.
Cost of Living Advisory: Marion County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Marion County is affordable. The median rent is $717/month against a median household income of $50,484, putting rent at 17.0% of income.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Marion County is $717/month, while owner costs run $730/month. Renting saves approximately $13/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $28,680/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $31,286/year. With a median household income of $50,484, 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
Within Georgia, Marion County is less affordable than Laurens County by roughly 7% ($717/mo vs $769/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Marion County
Rent Burden
17.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,178
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.4%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Marion County
Median home value is $122,100. Estimated monthly cost: $975 vs. your max of $1,178.
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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