Marion, IL
Population 16,796 · Illinois
About Marion, IL
Marion is a mid-sized city located in Illinois with a population of 16,796 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $57,281 per year, which is 24% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 40.4 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Marion features a median home value of $145,300, which is 41% 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 $878, 25% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 8,804 total housing units, 62% are owner-occupied (4,964 units) and 38% are renter-occupied (3,019 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Marion shows an unemployment rate of 4.0%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 16.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Marion have an average one-way commute time of 21.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
27.4% of Marion residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 1.4% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 1.6% Black or African American, and 0.3% Asian residents, with 2.6% of the population being foreign-born.
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 US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Illinois.
What is the median household income in Marion?
The median household income in Marion, IL is $57,281 per year, which is 24% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Marion?
The median home value in Marion, IL is $145,300, which is 41% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Marion?
The median monthly rent in Marion, IL is $878, which is 25% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Marion?
The unemployment rate in Marion, IL is 4.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Marion, IL a good place to live?
Marion offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 16,796 and a median age of 40.4, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Marion, IL?
27.4% 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, IL: median home value is $145,300 (41% below national), median rent is $878/month, and median household income is $57,281. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Marion?
The poverty rate in Marion, IL is 16.0%, 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, IL?
Marion's population is 1.4% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 1.6% Black or African American, 0.3% Asian, and 5.1% two or more races. 2.6% of residents are foreign-born.