Marion, KY
Population 2,908 · Kentucky
About Marion, KY
Marion is a small town located in Kentucky with a population of 2,908 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $40,691 per year, which is 46% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 47.5 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 Marion features a median home value of $104,100, which is 57% 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 $577, 50% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,458 total housing units, 66% are owner-occupied (773 units) and 34% are renter-occupied (395 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 0.7%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 19.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Marion have an average one-way commute time of 24.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
9.8% 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 1.9% White, 1.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.2% Asian residents, with 1.2% of the population being foreign-born.
How Marion Ranks in Kentucky
Cost of Living in Marion, KY
Compared to national averages, Marion has a median household income of $40,691 (46% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $104,100, which is 57% below the national median. Monthly rent at $577 is 50% below the US average of $1,163. Within Kentucky, Marion's income is 39% below the state average of $66,273, and home values are 43% below the state median of $182,504.
Why Live in Marion, KY?
Marion offers affordable housing with a median home value of $104,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $577/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.7%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 24.3 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($40,691) 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 2,908 with a median age of 47.5 years. Compare Marion with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Kentucky.
Similar Cities Near Marion
Cities in Kentucky with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brandenburg | 2,907 | $48,281 | $208,100 | Compare |
| Sorgho | 2,928 | $118,688 | $252,800 | Compare |
| Eddyville | 2,945 | $58,527 | $188,500 | Compare |
| Springfield | 2,871 | $40,890 | $154,800 | Compare |
| Indian Hills | 2,870 | $188,750 | $666,200 | Compare |
| Rineyville | 2,869 | $82,037 | $234,900 | Compare |
| Providence | 2,861 | $53,208 | $66,800 | Compare |
| Flemingsburg | 2,967 | $32,500 | $123,200 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Kentucky
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, KY?
The population of Marion, KY is 2,908 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Kentucky.
What is the median household income in Marion?
The median household income in Marion, KY is $40,691 per year, which is 46% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Marion?
The median home value in Marion, KY is $104,100, which is 57% 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, KY is $577, which is 50% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Marion?
The unemployment rate in Marion, KY is 0.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Marion, KY a good place to live?
Marion offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 2,908 and a median age of 47.5, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Marion, KY?
9.8% 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, KY: median home value is $104,100 (57% below national), median rent is $577/month, and median household income is $40,691. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Marion?
The poverty rate in Marion, KY is 19.2%, 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, KY?
Marion's population is 1.9% White, 1.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.2% Asian, and 1.5% two or more races. 1.2% of residents are foreign-born.