Cost of Living in Marion County, Iowa
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, Iowa
Marion's Rents Above National Norm
Marion County renters spend 13.5% of their income on rent, slightly above the national average and tracking with Iowa's state average of 14.1%. Median income of $78,059 sits above the national median of $74,755, helping offset the higher median rent of $880.
Slightly Above Iowa Average
Marion County's 13.5% rent-to-income ratio runs just above Iowa's state average, while median rent of $880 exceeds the state average of $812 by $68. Still, solid median income of $78,059 provides a cushion compared to lower-earning counties.
Fourth-Highest Rents Regionally
Marion's median rent of $880 ranks fourth among the eight counties, notably higher than Louisa ($797) and Lucas ($738) but lower than Linn ($915) and Madison ($938). Home values of $211,100 reflect a county with moderate investment appeal.
Well-Distributed Housing Burden
Marion households earning $78,059 spend $880 on median rent (13.5% of income) or $1,074 on mortgages (16.4% of income). These ratios are reasonable, suggesting housing costs won't severely constrain other essential spending.
Marion Offers Balanced Growth
Marion County suits relocating professionals with decent income and willingness to pay moderate-to-above-average rents for community stability. The county's home values and rental costs suggest a maturing, economically sound area worth exploring.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Marion County
Rent Burden
13.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,821
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Marion County
Median home value is $211,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,685 vs. your max of $1,821.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.