Let the numbers do the talking.
Marion, IA vs Marshalltown, IA
Marion, IA vs Marshalltown, IA: What the data shows
Marion, IA is in Marion, IA while Marshalltown, IA is in Marshalltown, IA — both in the same state. On home prices, Marshalltown, IA is the more affordable option at $148,000 median — $63,000 less than Marion, IA's $211,000. WYLT rates Marion, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Marshalltown, IA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Marion, IA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Marshalltown, IA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Marion, IA has Low flood risk and Marshalltown, IA has Low flood risk.
Marshalltown, IA is the more walkable neighborhood. Marion, IA scores N/A/100 versus Marshalltown, IA's 32/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Marion, IA has the higher school rating — Marion, IA rates 6.1/10 and Marshalltown, IA rates 5.7/10.
| Category | Marion, IA | Marshalltown, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $211K | $148K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $897 | $831 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $82K ✓ Higher income | $68K |
| Price Volatility | Low | Low |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 32/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 20/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 18/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 20 min ✓ Shorter commute | 45 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.1/10 ✓ Better schools | 5.7/10 |
| Best for | affordable familiesfirst‑time homebuyersremote workers with car access | FamiliesFirst‑time homebuyersAffordability seekers |
Bottom line
If affordability and a low commute time are top priorities, Marion is the better choice, offering a slightly higher quality of life and schools for a moderate price increase. However, for those on a very tight budget or seeking an even more affordable option, Marshalltown may still be a viable option despite its limitations. Ultimately, Marion's advantages make it a better value for most families and first-time homebuyers.
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