Bristol, VA vs Marion, VA

Bristol, VA and Marion, VA have a very similar cost of living, with only a 3.1% difference in their overall index. Bristol scores 67 while Marion scores 69 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Bristol is $775/month compared to $696/month in Marion — a 11% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Marion is more affordable at $160,600 median vs $168,700.

Median household income in Bristol is $44,706 compared to $37,357 in Marion (+19.7%). Bristol offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Bristol spend roughly 20.8% of their income on rent, less than the 22.4% in Marion.