Marion, NC
Population 7,594 · North Carolina
About Marion, NC
Marion is a small town located in North Carolina with a population of 7,594 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $44,472 per year, which is 41% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 38.3 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 $131,100, which is 46% 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 $687, 41% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 3,108 total housing units, 47% are owner-occupied (1,263 units) and 53% are renter-occupied (1,449 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Marion shows an unemployment rate of 8.2%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 24.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Marion have an average one-way commute time of 27.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
14.2% 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 15.2% White, 3.0% Hispanic or Latino, 1.3% Black or African American, and 4.9% Asian residents, with 16.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Marion, NC
Compared to national averages, Marion has a median household income of $44,472 (41% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $131,100, which is 46% below the national median. Monthly rent at $687 is 41% below the US average of $1,163. Within North Carolina, Marion's income is 31% below the state average of $64,468, and home values are 43% below the state median of $228,922.
Why Live in Marion, NC?
Marion offers affordable housing with a median home value of $131,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $687/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($44,472) 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 7,594 with a median age of 38.3 years. Compare Marion with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in North Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Marion
Cities in North Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oak Ridge | 7,660 | $140,583 | $523,500 | Compare |
| Kill Devil Hills | 7,727 | $85,747 | $401,700 | Compare |
| Etowah | 7,765 | $73,000 | $313,500 | Compare |
| Half Moon | 7,780 | $61,848 | $170,900 | Compare |
| Brevard | 7,795 | $44,356 | $411,000 | Compare |
| Forest City | 7,368 | $35,897 | $142,100 | Compare |
| King | 7,345 | $60,451 | $227,500 | Compare |
| Cullowhee | 7,300 | $35,076 | $0 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in North Carolina
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, NC?
The population of Marion, NC is 7,594 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in North Carolina.
What is the median household income in Marion?
The median household income in Marion, NC is $44,472 per year, which is 41% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Marion?
The median home value in Marion, NC is $131,100, which is 46% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Marion?
The median monthly rent in Marion, NC is $687, which is 41% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Marion?
The unemployment rate in Marion, NC is 8.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Marion, NC a good place to live?
Marion offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 7,594 and a median age of 38.3, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Marion, NC?
14.2% 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, NC: median home value is $131,100 (46% below national), median rent is $687/month, and median household income is $44,472. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Marion?
The poverty rate in Marion, NC is 24.2%, 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, NC?
Marion's population is 15.2% White, 3.0% Hispanic or Latino, 1.3% Black or African American, 4.9% Asian, and 11.8% two or more races. 16.1% of residents are foreign-born.