Cost of Living in Marion County, South Carolina
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, South Carolina
Marion's rent squeeze vs. nation
Marion County residents spend 23.1% of income on rent, slightly above the national norm but reflecting a deeper affordability gap—median household income here is $34,501, less than half the national median of $74,755. Renters are paying proportionally more because they're earning significantly less, making housing costs feel steeper even when nominal rents are low.
Where Marion ranks statewide
At 23.1% rent-to-income, Marion County trails South Carolina's average of 20.1%, placing it among the less affordable counties in the state. The $663 median monthly rent is well below the state average of $945, but income levels are the real constraint here.
Marion vs. Pee Dee rivals
Marion's $663 rent is competitive with neighboring Marlboro County ($686) and McCormick County ($666), but Marion households earn notably less—$34,501 versus Marlboro's $36,293 and McCormick's $55,344. Neighbors to the east in Marlboro face similar affordability pressure, while McCormick's higher incomes create more breathing room.
Rent, mortgages, and thin margins
Marion renters pay $663/month while homeowners carry $446/month in housing costs on a median home value of $86,800. With median household income of just $34,501 annually, renters dedicate nearly 1 in 4 income dollars to housing, leaving limited resources for other essentials.
Consider Marion carefully
If you're relocating to the Pee Dee region, Marion offers the lowest rents but the tightest income-to-housing ratio in South Carolina. Job seekers should prioritize markets where income growth opportunities match or exceed the state average of $74,755.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Marion County
Rent Burden
23.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$805
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Marion County
Median home value is $86,800. Estimated monthly cost: $693 vs. your max of $805.
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.