2025 Compare Cities Cost of Living:
Marion, IA vs Mason City, IA

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Highlights
Is it cheaper to live in Mason City or is it cheaper to live in Marion?
- Mason City is 10.4% less expensive than Marion.

Which city has more affordable housing, Mason City or Marion?
- Mason City housing costs are 47.6% less expensive than Marion housing costs.

Is Health Care more affordable in Marion or is Health Care more affordable in Mason City.
- Health related expenses are 1.8% less in Mason City.
 Marion, IAMason City, IAUnited States
 Overall  Unlock73.3100
 Food & Groceries97.6  Unlock100
 Health  Unlock100.5100
 Housing70.8  Unlock100
 Median Home Cost  Unlock$137,100$338,100
 Utilities101  Unlock100
 Transportation  Unlock59.1100
 Miscellaneous115.3  Unlock100
100 = National Average (Below 100 means cheaper than the US average. Above 100 means more expensive.)
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Reviews for Marion    3 Reviews

I've lived in Marion for ~22 years now, and it has its pros (+) and cons (-): + Marion is one of the safest places to live in the country. + The cost of living vs  More

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Over 15 years ago

Marion is clean, affordable and has one of the lowest crime rates in the state. The people here are friendly and helpful. Marion shares a border with Cedar Rapids  More

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Marion is one of the fastest growing communities in Iowa. We have a highly educated workforce, affordable housing, low crime and excellent education. Plus, there is much  More

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Reviews for Mason City    8 Reviews

I am from the area originally and have lived several places. I recently moved back from Arizona. I moved back to help with my elderly parents. If I did not have  More

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Over 13 years ago

Where to begin?? Murder,arson,abductions,beastialty,gang killings,meth labs,pantie thiefs. High utility bills, no jobs, corrupt police, evil judges, minus 40 below wind  More

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Over 14 years ago

Unless you have a tie to Mason City, such as family, don't even consider this desolate town. The population is declining rapidly for a reason. You are on an island,  More

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