Cost of Living in Marion County, Texas
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 #2,083 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 34%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Marion County, Texas
Marion stretches renters' budgets tight
Marion County renters spend 21.6% of their income on housing—nearly 20% higher than the Texas average of 18.1% and well above the national comfort zone. With a median household income of just $47,447, the county's $854 median rent creates genuine affordability pressure for working families.
Among Texas's least affordable counties
Marion County's rent-to-income ratio of 21.6% places it in the bottom quartile statewide, signaling severe affordability challenges. The combination of lower incomes and relatively high rents makes Marion one of Texas's toughest markets for renters seeking housing stability.
Higher rent pressure than surrounding counties
Marion's $854 rent sits between Madison County's $832 and Martin County's $1,175, but the real strain comes from Marion's lower income base. Homeownership looks more promising here, with a median monthly cost of $482—the lowest among its regional peers—thanks to an affordable median home value of $110,500.
The housing cost crunch in Marion
A typical Marion household earning $47,447 annually spends about $1,025 on rent and utilities, consuming 26% of gross income—far above healthy thresholds. For homeowners, the picture brightens: $482 monthly costs represent just 12% of income, suggesting ownership may be the more viable path for Marion residents.
Marion works better for homebuyers
If you're relocating to Marion, owning is substantially cheaper than renting; the $110,500 median home value and $482 monthly payment make homeownership a smart move. Renters should budget carefully or explore nearby counties like Madison, where rent-to-income ratios are measurably lower.
Cost of Living Advisory: Marion County
Affordability Verdict
Marion County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $854/month representing approximately 21.6% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 34.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Marion County is $854/month, while owner costs run $482/month. Owning saves approximately $372/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,160/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $20,657/year. With a median household income of $47,447, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 34.0% of renter households in Marion County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Marion County sits 6% more expensive than Eastland County ($803/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Marion County
Rent Burden
21.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,107
per month
Owner Cost Burden
12.2%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Marion County
Median home value is $110,500. Estimated monthly cost: $882 vs. your max of $1,107.
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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