Marathon, IA
Population 199 · Iowa
About Marathon, IA
Marathon is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 199 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $40,417 per year, which is 46% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 55.4 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Marathon features a median home value of $41,700, which is 83% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Marathon one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $758, 35% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 114 total housing units, 90% are owner-occupied (82 units) and 10% are renter-occupied (9 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Marathon shows an unemployment rate of 20.6%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 18.6%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Marathon have an average one-way commute time of 29.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
11.8% of Marathon 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 4.5% White, 3.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.5% Asian residents, with 4.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How Marathon Ranks in Iowa
Cost of Living in Marathon, IA
Compared to national averages, Marathon has a median household income of $40,417 (46% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $41,700, which is 83% below the national median. Monthly rent at $758 is 35% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Marathon's income is 41% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 68% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Marathon, IA?
Marathon offers affordable housing with a median home value of $41,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $758/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($40,417) that falls below the national average. However, Marathon’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Marathon has a population of 199 with a median age of 55.4 years. Compare Marathon with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
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Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Iowa
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Marathon
What is the population of Marathon, IA?
The population of Marathon, IA is 199 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Iowa.
What is the median household income in Marathon?
The median household income in Marathon, IA is $40,417 per year, which is 46% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Marathon?
The median home value in Marathon, IA is $41,700, which is 83% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Marathon?
The median monthly rent in Marathon, IA is $758, which is 35% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Marathon?
The unemployment rate in Marathon, IA is 20.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Marathon, IA a good place to live?
Marathon offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 199 and a median age of 55.4, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Marathon, IA?
11.8% of residents in Marathon 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 Marathon?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Marathon, IA: median home value is $41,700 (83% below national), median rent is $758/month, and median household income is $40,417. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Marathon?
The poverty rate in Marathon, IA is 18.6%, 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 Marathon, IA?
Marathon's population is 4.5% White, 3.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.5% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 4.0% of residents are foreign-born.