Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Marion, NC
Considering a move to Marion, NC? This friendly city of about 7,900 residents boasts an affordable median home price of $152,000 and average rents around $770, making it a budget-friendly choice. Enjoy a mild climate with 63% sunny days, an average 20-minute commute, and access to local healthcare at Mission Hospital McDowell. While crime rates are a bit higher than the national average, Marion offers small-town charm, access to the outdoors, and community-focused schools to help you settle in comfortably.
Demographics - Marion, NC
Demographics - Marion, NC
Marion, NC is home to approximately 7,900 residents with a median age of 43, offering a blend of family-friendly and retiree appeal. The community is predominantly White, with a growing presence of other ethnic groups and nearly 8% non-English speakers, contributing to a modestly diverse population. Its balanced gender ratio and moderate population density create a welcoming small-town atmosphere.
Population:
7,900
Density:
1,140 per sq mi
Median Age:
43.2
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
80.4%
Black:
7.0%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
11.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Marion, NC?
Marion stands out for its affordability, with a median home value of $152,000 and average rent of $770 making it attractive for budget-conscious movers. The overall cost of living index is significantly below the U.S. average, allowing residents to enjoy lower housing, transportation, and utility expenses. State income taxes are moderate at 5.25%, supporting an accessible lifestyle for many.
Median House Value:
$152,000
Gross Rent:
$770
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,100
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,075
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$400
State Taxes:
Low:
5.25%
|
High:
5.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.6
Grocery:
95.2
Housing:
60.1
Utilities:
99.4
Transportation:
77.5
Health Care:
99.0
Miscellaneous:
92.7
Crime
Is Marion, NC a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Marion are somewhat higher than the national average, with a 1 in 350 chance of experiencing violent crime and a 1 in 41 chance of property crime. While these figures suggest residents should take typical safety precautions, Marion's tight-knit community often fosters a sense of neighborhood watchfulness. Staying informed and involved locally helps promote a secure living environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
286
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,413
Crime Index:
2,699
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 350
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 41
Weather
What is the weather like in Marion, NC year-round?
Marion enjoys a mild four-season climate, with winter lows around 28°F and summer highs reaching 86°F. The city receives about 54 inches of rainfall annually and experiences sunny weather 63% of the year, perfect for outdoor activities. Seasonal shifts are gentle, making Marion appealing for those seeking comfortable year-round living.
Winter
Min:
28°F
Max:
50°F
Spring
Min:
46°F
Max:
72°F
Summer
Min:
64°F
Max:
86°F
Fall
Min:
48°F
Max:
73°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
54.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
Residents of Marion benefit from a friendly, close-knit community where the median household income is $41,700 and the average commute is just over 20 minutes. While the poverty rate is higher than national averages and bachelor's degree attainment is modest, neighbors value education and many own their homes. The area has low public transportation usage, reflecting a car-dependent lifestyle typical of small towns.
Median Income:
$32,500
Household Income:
$41,700
Family Income:
$49,000
Per Capita Income:
$22,300
Income Male:
$36,000
Income Female:
$28,500
Poverty Rate:
20.4%
Non English Speakers:
7.8%
Rent:
$770
Unemployment Rate:
4.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
20.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
79.6%
Bachelors or More:
14.1%
Education
How are the schools in Marion, NC?
Families in Marion have access to both public and private schooling options, with favorable student-teacher ratios and a range of extracurricular activities. Higher education is easily accessible at McDowell Technical Community College just minutes away, and larger universities are within driving distance. The city's schools foster a supportive learning environment, making Marion a practical choice for students of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Marion Elementary School
Street:
1001 E Main St
Phone:
828-652-2141
Students:
480
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.9
Name:
East McDowell Middle School
Street:
676 State St
Phone:
828-652-7711
Students:
700
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Private Schools
Name:
Tabernacle Christian School
Street:
197 New Moriah Rd
Phone:
828-652-2210
Students:
110
Colleges
Name:
McDowell Technical Community College
City:
Marion
State:
NC
Distance:
2 miles
Students:
1,500
Name:
Western Carolina University
City:
Cullowhee
State:
NC
Distance:
63 miles
Students:
12,000
Healthcare
Marion provides essential healthcare services through Mission Hospital McDowell, which offers general and emergency care locally. With about 1.7 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 88% of people insured, access to medical care is generally convenient. The healthcare index suggests satisfactory services for a city of its size.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Mission Hospital McDowell
Address:
430 Rankin Dr, Marion, NC 28752
Phone:
(828) 659-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
88.4%
Health Care Index:
77.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Marion, NC?
The Marion housing market is affordable, with a median home price of $152,000 and an average two-bedroom rent of $770. Homeownership is common, and the market has experienced healthy appreciation at 7.2% over the past year. Rental vacancy rates are moderate, offering options for both renters and buyers.
Median Home Price:
$152,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$770
Owner Occupied Rate:
57.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.9%
DMV Information
Residents can conveniently access DMV services at the local North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles office on Main Street in Marion. The office provides standard licensing and vehicle registration services, supported by a state-wide website and customer service line. This ensures easy management of driving and vehicle needs for newcomers and locals alike.
State:
North Carolina
Department:
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
202 S Main St, Marion, NC 28752
Phone:
919-715-7000
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.