Cost of Living in Marion, SD

With a cost of living index of 70, Marion, SD is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 30% cheaper than the national average and 5% below the South Dakota state average of 74. Marion is a small community of 1,004 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Marion's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $811 (39% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $167,400 (45% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.3x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Marion is $72,969, which is 3% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 13% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Marion. The area sees an average annual temperature of 47.4°F, with summers averaging 72°F and winters around 21°F. Annual rainfall totals 27.8 inches spread over roughly 104 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

Everyday prices in the Sioux Falls, SD-MN (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area are generally below the national average. Out of 6 common items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6 are priced lower than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.