Cost of Living in Marion County, Illinois
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
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Marion County, Illinois
Marion's rents near the national line
Marion County renters spend 15.2% of household income on rent, just below the national norm, but face a median household income of $60,839—about 19% lower than the $74,755 national average. Lower rent ($771/month) helps offset the income gap, making housing more accessible than raw affordability ratios suggest.
Slight edge above Illinois average
Marion's rent-to-income ratio of 15.2% exceeds Illinois's state average of 14.7%, placing it in the middle range of county affordability. The median rent of $771 is $66 below the state average, a modest advantage that helps stretch lower incomes further.
Most affordable rents in the region
Marion County boasts the lowest median rent ($771) among its regional peers, undercutting Marshall ($767 by just $4) and significantly beating Madison ($969). This affordability advantage extends to homeownership: Marion's median owner cost of $785 is the lowest in the immediate area.
Housing takes over housing budgets
With a $60,839 median income, Marion residents spend $771/month on rent (15.2%) or $785/month on homeownership costs (15.5%). These figures suggest housing consumes roughly one-third of gross income, leaving tight margins for utilities, food, and savings.
Marion offers rural affordability
Moving to Marion County means accessing some of Illinois's lowest housing costs and home values ($100,100 median). If budget is your priority, Marion competes well against Marshall and significantly undercuts Madison—though income levels here are lower across the board.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Marion County
Rent Burden
15.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,420
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Marion County
Median home value is $100,100. Estimated monthly cost: $799 vs. your max of $1,420.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Marion County, Illinois?
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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.