Marion, SD
Population 1,004 · South Dakota
About Marion, SD
Marion is a small town located in South Dakota with a population of 1,004 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $72,969 per year, which is 3% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 51.5 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 $167,400, which is 32% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Marion in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $811, 30% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 425 total housing units, 80% are owner-occupied (327 units) and 20% are renter-occupied (84 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Marion shows an unemployment rate of 0.2%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 8.2%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Marion have an average one-way commute time of 22.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
16.1% 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 1.0% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.2% of the population being foreign-born.
How Marion Ranks in South Dakota
Cost of Living in Marion, SD
Compared to national averages, Marion has a median household income of $72,969 (3% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $167,400, which is 32% below the national median. Monthly rent at $811 is 30% below the US average of $1,163. Within South Dakota, Marion's income is 13% above the state average of $64,650, and home values are 16% above the state median of $143,757.
Why Live in Marion, SD?
Marion offers affordable housing with a median home value of $167,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $811/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.2%. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 8.2%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 22.6 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($72,969) 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 1,004 with a median age of 51.5 years. Compare Marion with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Dakota.
Similar Cities Near Marion
Cities in South Dakota with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colman | 1,011 | $73,000 | $227,600 | Compare |
| Howard | 990 | $54,792 | $93,200 | Compare |
| Alcester | 987 | $58,661 | $114,400 | Compare |
| De Smet | 974 | $60,139 | $155,900 | Compare |
| Elkton | 971 | $58,750 | $183,800 | Compare |
| Valley Springs | 967 | $97,031 | $178,900 | Compare |
| Piedmont | 956 | $52,730 | $290,100 | Compare |
| Martin | 1,054 | $49,609 | $87,300 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in South Dakota
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, SD?
The population of Marion, SD is 1,004 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in South Dakota.
What is the median household income in Marion?
The median household income in Marion, SD is $72,969 per year, which is 3% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Marion?
The median home value in Marion, SD is $167,400, which is 32% 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, SD is $811, which is 30% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Marion?
The unemployment rate in Marion, SD is 0.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Marion, SD a good place to live?
Marion offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 1,004 and a median age of 51.5, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Marion, SD?
16.1% 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, SD: median home value is $167,400 (32% below national), median rent is $811/month, and median household income is $72,969. 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, SD is 8.2%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Marion, SD?
Marion's population is 1.0% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.2% of residents are foreign-born.