Cost of Living in Marion, IA
Population 41,690 · Iowa · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Marion lands reasonably close to national benchmarks on most cost indicators, with a median home value of $231,000 — 24% below the US figure. That makes it a useful reference point for comparing with more extreme markets in Iowa.
Geographically, Marion sits roughly 7 miles northeast of Cedar Rapids. Median home values run roughly 30% higher than Cedar Rapids' $177,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Marion
The median home value in Marion is $230,800 — 24% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $978/month, 26% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $87,105/year is 17% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 3.4%, below the national average of 4.8%. Iowa's top state income tax rate is 5.7% and the combined sales tax is 6.9%. Overall, Marion has a cost of living index of 75 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 25% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
💨 Air Quality
EPA AQS 2023 — county-level monitoring data
🏫 Schools
NCES CCD 2019 — public school district data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Marion, IA?
Marion has a cost index of 75 (100 = national average). It is 25% below the national average.
What is average rent in Marion, IA?
The median gross rent in Marion is $978 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Marion?
The median home value in Marion is $230,800 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Marion?
The median household income in Marion is $87,105 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Marion, IA?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Marion is 6.9%. The Iowa state income tax top rate is 5.7%.
Is Marion, IA affordable?
Yes, Marion is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 75 — about 25% below the US national average of 100.
Marion at a Glance
- Population
- 41,690
- Median Income
- $87,105
- Home Value
- $230,800
- Median Rent
- $978/mo
- Unemployment
- 3.4%
- Sales Tax
- 6.9%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Iowa Rankings
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