2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Marion, IA vs Spirit Lake, IA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Spirit Lake older or younger than people in Marion?
- The Median Age in Spirit Lake is 1.8 years older than in Marion.

Are housing costs cheaper in Spirit Lake or Marion?
- Spirit Lake housing costs are 18.9% more expensive than Marion housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Spirit Lake or Marion?
- The average commute for residents of Spirit Lake is 3.8 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Marion.

Things to do in Marion?
Marion, Iowa is located in Linn county giving its citizens access to top rated schools such as Jefferson High School while also having shopping options at Lindale Mall and numerous restaurants such as Grub Burger Bar

Things to do in Spirit Lake?
Living in Spirit Lake, IA is a unique experience that many people enjoy. The small town atmosphere and rural setting provide a peaceful and tranquil environment, where everyone knows each other and looks out for one another. The scenery is breathtaking, with the beautiful lakes, rolling hills, and lush green fields creating an idyllic natural backdrop that can't be experienced anywhere else. Residents can take advantage of all the outdoor activities the area has to offer such as fishing, boating, swimming, skiing, ATV riding and more. There are numerous small businesses in town providing goods and services to locals. Overall, Spirit Lake is a great place to call home offering a safe and friendly environment for families to grow together in nature's beauty.

 Marion, IASpirit Lake, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock5,301329,725,481
 Median Income$75,927  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock41.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$232,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time19.54  Unlock26.38
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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Marion

Reviews for Spirit Lake    1 Reviews

Over 18 years ago

We moved from a medium sized city in the West (about 100,000) to Spirit Lake a few years ago. Although it took a little while to get used to living in a small town  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Spirit Lake


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.