Marion, MI
Population 674 · Michigan
About Marion, MI
Marion is a small community located in Michigan with a population of 674 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $41,944 per year, which is 44% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 44 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 $96,800, which is 60% 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 $733, 37% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 348 total housing units, 70% are owner-occupied (209 units) and 30% are renter-occupied (89 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Marion shows an unemployment rate of 9.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 30.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Marion have an average one-way commute time of 26.8 minutes.
Education & Demographics
11.1% 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 5.3% White, 0.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 1.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Marion, MI
Compared to national averages, Marion has a median household income of $41,944 (44% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $96,800, which is 60% below the national median. Monthly rent at $733 is 37% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Marion's income is 36% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 47% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Marion, MI?
Marion offers affordable housing with a median home value of $96,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $733/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($41,944) 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 674 with a median age of 44 years. Compare Marion with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Marion
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caseville | 675 | $54,306 | $158,200 | Compare |
| Calumet | 676 | $25,234 | $82,500 | Compare |
| Port Austin | 676 | $46,000 | $162,100 | Compare |
| Lake City | 669 | $59,750 | $157,500 | Compare |
| Mackinac Island | 663 | $100,125 | $834,600 | Compare |
| Ida | 661 | $122,885 | $209,700 | Compare |
| Byron | 654 | $64,135 | $177,500 | Compare |
| Maybee | 654 | $53,333 | $248,500 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Michigan
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, MI?
The population of Marion, MI is 674 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Michigan.
What is the median household income in Marion?
The median household income in Marion, MI is $41,944 per year, which is 44% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Marion?
The median home value in Marion, MI is $96,800, which is 60% 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, MI is $733, which is 37% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Marion?
The unemployment rate in Marion, MI is 9.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Marion, MI a good place to live?
Marion offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 674 and a median age of 44, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Marion, MI?
11.1% 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, MI: median home value is $96,800 (60% below national), median rent is $733/month, and median household income is $41,944. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Marion?
The poverty rate in Marion, MI is 30.4%, 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, MI?
Marion's population is 5.3% White, 0.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 1.0% of residents are foreign-born.