Marion, IA

Below Avg · 75

Iowa · Population 41,690 · Updated March 2026

$978
Median Rent / Month
$87,105
Median Income
$230,800
Median Home Value
$1,266
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Marion

13.5%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Affordable
Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

Tax Burden in Iowa

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

5.7%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
6.0%
Sales Tax
1.57%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$11,736
Annual Rent
$4,965
State Income Tax
$3,624
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Marion is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 75 (where 100 equals the national median), Marion residents can expect to pay median rent of $978/month while earning a median household income of $87,105/year.

The median home value in Marion, IA is $230,800, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,266 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 13.5% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

Iowa has a moderate income tax rate of 5.7%. Combined with a 6.0% sales tax rate and 1.57% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Marion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Marion

What is the cost of living in Marion, IA?
The cost of living index in Marion, IA is 75 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $978, median household income is $87,105/year, and the median home value is $230,800.
Is Marion, IA affordable?
Yes, Marion is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 75. The rent-to-income ratio is 13.5%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Marion, IA?
The median gross rent in Marion, IA is $978 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $11,736.
What is the median household income in Marion?
The median household income in Marion, IA is $87,105 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in Iowa?
Iowa has a top income tax rate of 5.7%, a sales tax of 6.0%, and an effective property tax rate of 1.57%.