Cost of Living in Marion, IL
Population 16,796 · Illinois · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Marion sits on the smaller end of the Illinois city distribution. That scale shapes the housing market, the labor pool, and the services available to residents in ways the data below makes visible.
Geographically, Marion lies roughly 80 miles west of the nearest major metro, Evansville. Median home values run roughly 13% higher than Evansville's $129,000.
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 $145,300 — 52% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $878/month, 33% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $57,281/year is 23% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 4.0%, below the national average of 4.8%. Illinois's top state income tax rate is 5.0% and the combined sales tax is 8.7%. Overall, Marion has a cost of living index of 55 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 45% 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
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Marion, IL?
Marion has a cost index of 55 (100 = national average). It is 45% below the national average.
What is average rent in Marion, IL?
The median gross rent in Marion is $878 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Marion?
The median home value in Marion is $145,300 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Marion?
The median household income in Marion is $57,281 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Marion, IL?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Marion is 8.7%. The Illinois state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is Marion, IL affordable?
Yes, Marion is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 55 — about 45% below the US national average of 100.
Marion at a Glance
- Population
- 16,796
- Median Income
- $57,281
- Home Value
- $145,300
- Median Rent
- $878/mo
- Unemployment
- 4.0%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Illinois Rankings
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