Marion, IL vs Metropolis, IL
There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Metropolis is 19.6% cheaper than Marion. With a cost index of 60 vs 72, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Metropolis to Marion should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.
On the housing front, median rent in Marion is $878/month compared to $748/month in Metropolis — a 17% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Metropolis is more affordable at $93,700 median vs $145,300.
Median household income in Marion is $57,281 compared to $51,548 in Metropolis (+11.1%). The higher salaries in Marion partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Marion spend roughly 18.4% of their income on rent, more than the 17.4% in Metropolis.
Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (56.4°F vs 58.8°F). Metropolis receives more rainfall at 50.3" per year compared to 44" in Marion.
Income & Cost
Housing
Salary Equivalency Calculator
What does your salary in one city buy you in the other?
Everyday Prices
BLS Average Prices by metro area
Climate
NOAA 30-year normals (1991-2020)