Marion, IL
Population 16,796 · Illinois
About Marion, IL
Marion is a mid-sized city in Illinois with a population of 16,796 residents. The median household income is $57,281 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Marion is 40.4 years.
Housing in Marion has a median home value of $145,300 and median monthly rent of $878. Of the 8,804 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 4,964 owner-occupied and 3,019 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Marion is 4.0% and the poverty rate is 16.0%. 27.4% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 21.9 minutes.
Cost of Living in Marion, IL
Compared to national averages, Marion has a median household income of $57,281 (24% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $145,300, which is 41% below the national median. Monthly rent at $878 is 25% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Marion's income is 24% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 12% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Marion, IL?
Marion offers affordable housing with a median home value of $145,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $878/month, and short commute times averaging just 21.9 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($57,281) 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 16,796 with a median age of 40.4 years. Compare Marion with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Marion
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bridgeview | 16,721 | $65,153 | $234,000 | Compare |
| Westchester | 16,524 | $103,561 | $297,400 | Compare |
| Morton | 16,503 | $87,760 | $238,900 | Compare |
| Hinsdale | 17,155 | $250,001 | $999,100 | Compare |
| Cahokia Heights | 17,173 | $37,975 | $56,900 | Compare |
| Country Club Hills | 16,419 | $77,463 | $180,600 | Compare |
| Charleston | 17,212 | $49,057 | $133,700 | Compare |
| Mattoon | 16,334 | $47,308 | $96,000 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Illinois
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, IL?
The population of Marion, IL is 16,796 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Marion?
The median household income in Marion, IL is $57,281 per year.
What is the median home value in Marion?
The median home value in Marion, IL is $145,300.
What is the average rent in Marion?
The median monthly rent in Marion, IL is $878.
What is the unemployment rate in Marion?
The unemployment rate in Marion, IL is 4.0%.