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
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.
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
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.