Marion, AL
Population 2,994 · Alabama
About Marion, AL
Marion is a small town located in Alabama with a population of 2,994 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $38,221 per year, which is 49% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 23.9 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Marion features a median home value of $108,300, which is 56% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Marion one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $533, 54% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,040 total housing units, 46% are owner-occupied (416 units) and 54% are renter-occupied (495 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Marion shows an unemployment rate of 14.7%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 17.8%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Marion have an average one-way commute time of 19.7 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
18.3% of Marion residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 0.2% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.4% Asian residents, with 0.9% of the population being foreign-born.
How Marion Ranks in Alabama
Cost of Living in Marion, AL
Compared to national averages, Marion has a median household income of $38,221 (49% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $108,300, which is 56% below the national median. Monthly rent at $533 is 54% below the US average of $1,163. Within Alabama, Marion's income is 34% below the state average of $57,952, and home values are 32% below the state median of $159,358.
Why Live in Marion, AL?
Marion offers affordable housing with a median home value of $108,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $533/month, and short commute times averaging just 19.7 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($38,221) that falls below the national average. However, Marion’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Marion has a population of 2,994 with a median age of 23.9 years. Compare Marion with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alabama.
Similar Cities Near Marion
Cities in Alabama with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dadeville | 3,034 | $57,240 | $163,500 | Compare |
| Huguley | 2,944 | $43,736 | $127,100 | Compare |
| Underwood-Petersville | 3,049 | $43,000 | $118,900 | Compare |
| Eagle Point | 2,929 | $146,125 | $463,300 | Compare |
| Taylor | 2,916 | $62,596 | $128,600 | Compare |
| Brighton | 3,091 | $36,219 | $72,800 | Compare |
| New Hope | 2,895 | $80,787 | $158,200 | Compare |
| Bon Secour | 3,094 | $60,833 | $266,100 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Alabama
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Marion With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Marion
What is the population of Marion, AL?
The population of Marion, AL is 2,994 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Alabama.
What is the median household income in Marion?
The median household income in Marion, AL is $38,221 per year, which is 49% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Marion?
The median home value in Marion, AL is $108,300, which is 56% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Marion?
The median monthly rent in Marion, AL is $533, which is 54% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Marion?
The unemployment rate in Marion, AL is 14.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Marion, AL a good place to live?
Marion offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 2,994 and a median age of 23.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Marion, AL?
18.3% of residents in Marion aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Marion?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Marion, AL: median home value is $108,300 (56% below national), median rent is $533/month, and median household income is $38,221. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Marion?
The poverty rate in Marion, AL is 17.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Marion, AL?
Marion's population is 0.2% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.4% Asian, and 69.6% two or more races. 0.9% of residents are foreign-born.