Cost of Living in Marion County, Tennessee
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 #1,550 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 49%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Marion County, Tennessee
Marion delivers balanced affordability below national standard
Marion County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.4% sits slightly below Tennessee's 17.6% state average and favorably compared to national norms. With a median household income of $58,103 and rent of $840 monthly, residents achieve reasonable housing security despite earnings far below the national $74,755 median.
Solid affordability, slightly above state average
Marion ranks slightly better than the state average for housing affordability, with a rent-to-income ratio of 17.4% that undercuts Tennessee's 17.6% benchmark. The county's $840 monthly rent runs just $20 below the state average, reflecting its position as a stable, affordable option.
Mid-tier pricing with modest property values
Marion's $840 rent falls between the rural bargains ($735) and wealthier markets ($995), while the median home value of $173,600 remains modest compared to northern peers. The county offers consistent, unspectacular housing costs—neither a bargain nor a burden.
Ownership costs notably lower than rents
Renters pay $840 monthly while homeowners spend just $702—a striking $138 monthly advantage for ownership that translates to nearly $1,700 annually in savings. This 17.4% rent burden versus 14.5% ownership burden strongly favors those able to purchase property.
Renter-friendly with ownership upside
Marion County offers fair rental affordability alongside surprisingly affordable homeownership, making it accessible for renters considering the transition. If you're exploring relocation, Marion's ownership cost advantage over rents deserves serious consideration in your financial planning.
Cost of Living Advisory: Marion County
Affordability Verdict
Marion County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $840/month representing approximately 17.3% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 26.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Marion County pay $840/month on average, compared to $702/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 16%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $33,600/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $30,086/year. With a median household income of $58,103, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Marion County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Tennessee, Marion County is more affordable than Benton County by roughly 7% ($840/mo vs $788/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Marion County
Rent Burden
17.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,356
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.5%
of gross income
The median home in Marion County may be a stretch
Median home value is $173,600. Estimated monthly cost: $1,386 vs. your max of $1,356.
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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