Marion, NC
Population 7,594 · North Carolina
About Marion, NC
Marion is a small community in North Carolina with a population of 7,594 residents. The median household income is $44,472 per year, which is below the national average. The median age in Marion is 38.3 years.
Housing in Marion has a median home value of $131,100 and median monthly rent of $687. Of the 3,108 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 1,263 owner-occupied and 1,449 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Marion is 8.2% and the poverty rate is 24.2%. 14.2% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 27.1 minutes.
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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Marion
What is the population of Marion, NC?
The population of Marion, NC is 7,594 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Marion?
The median household income in Marion, NC is $44,472 per year.
What is the median home value in Marion?
The median home value in Marion, NC is $131,100.
What is the average rent in Marion?
The median monthly rent in Marion, NC is $687.
What is the unemployment rate in Marion?
The unemployment rate in Marion, NC is 8.2%.