Average Rent in Marion County, SC↑ Rents rising 3.1% YoY🔻 3rd cheapest in SC

Marion County, SC has rental prices ranging from $705/month to $1,567/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $843/month — 40% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $34,501/year, spending $843/month on a 1-bedroom represents 29% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Marion County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $933/month, Marion County ranks #36 most expensive of the 38 cities tracked in South Carolina — more affordable than 60% of all US cities in our data.

The Marion County Rental Market

The Marion County, SC area has a population of about 28,900 and 38% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in Marion County, SC have risen by $28/month (3.1%) over the past year, from $905 to $933. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Marion County, SC without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $33,720. The local median household income of $34,501 exceeds that threshold by $781, making Marion County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Marion County, SC has an unemployment rate of 6.6%, 2.7 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.

Is Marion County, SC 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.