Average Rent in Marion County, KS↓ Rents falling 1.1% YoY🔻 2nd cheapest in KS
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 11,795
Market Overview
Marion County, KS has rental prices ranging from $625/month to $1,156/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $697/month — 50% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $63,438/year, spending $697/month on a 1-bedroom represents 13% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Marion County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $872/month, Marion County ranks #95 most expensive of the 96 cities tracked in Kansas — more affordable than 86% of all US cities in our data.
The Marion County Rental Market
The Marion County, KS area has a population of about 11,795 and 19% 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, KS have fallen by $10/month (1.1%) over the past year, from $882 to $872. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Marion County, KS without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $27,880. The local median household income of $63,438 exceeds that threshold by $35,558, making Marion County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Marion County, KS has an unemployment rate of 4.8%, 0.9 percentage points above the national average of 3.9%. A higher unemployment rate can moderate rental demand over time, which may help keep rent growth in check compared to tighter job markets.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Marion County, KS Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in KSlargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kansas City | $1,074 | $1,183 | $1,346 | $1,756 | — |
| Wichita | $690 | $760 | $995 | $1,305 | — |
| Topeka | $747 | $752 | $985 | $1,280 | — |
| Geary County | $753 | $758 | $994 | $1,393 | — |
| Manhattan | $808 | $813 | $995 | $1,359 | — |
| St. Joseph | $710 | $789 | $1,035 | $1,315 | — |
Rent or Buy in Marion County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Marion County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Marion County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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💵Rent Affordability in Marion CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in KSSee how Marion County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Marion CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋KS Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections