Average Rent in Marion County, IA↑ Rents rising 3.7% YoY🔺 15th priciest in IA

Marion County, IA has rental prices ranging from $669/month to $1,294/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $769/month — 45% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $78,059/year, spending $769/month on a 1-bedroom represents 12% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Marion County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $976/month, Marion County ranks #15 most expensive of the 94 cities tracked in Iowa — pricier than 60% of all US cities in our data.

The Marion County Rental Market

The Marion County, IA area has a population of about 33,551 and 22% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in Marion County, IA have risen by $35/month (3.7%) over the past year, from $941 to $976. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Marion County, IA without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $30,760. The local median household income of $78,059 exceeds that threshold by $47,299, making Marion County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Marion County, IA has an unemployment rate of 2.8%, 1.1 percentage points below the national average of 3.9%. Strong employment conditions typically sustain rental demand, as workers relocate to the area and local residents maintain stable housing.

Is Marion County, IA Affordable?

Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.

Rent or Buy in Marion County?

Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.

Living in Marion County

Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.