2026 Compare Cities Cost of Living:
Sterling, IL vs Marion, IL

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Highlights
Is it cheaper to live in Marion or is it cheaper to live in Sterling?
- Marion is 4.6% more expensive than Sterling.

Which city has more affordable housing, Marion or Sterling?
- Marion housing costs are 39.4% more expensive than Sterling housing costs.

Is Health Care more affordable in Sterling or is Health Care more affordable in Marion.
- Health related expenses are 8.9% more in Marion.
 Sterling, ILMarion, ILUnited States
 Overall  Unlock77.7100
 Food & Groceries92.0  Unlock100
 Health  Unlock129.1100
 Housing29.7  Unlock100
 Median Home Cost  Unlock$137,500$338,100
 Utilities102  Unlock100
 Transportation  Unlock80.9100
 Miscellaneous103.8  Unlock100
100 = National Average (Below 100 means cheaper than the US average. Above 100 means more expensive.)
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Reviews for Sterling    1 Reviews

Over 5 years ago

my child was not veery safe in his manger. many storms, too dangerous, lost kid in storm. a twelve year old tried to sell me nicotine!!!!! <3  More

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Reviews for Marion    2 Reviews

Over 11 years ago

I moved from Marion, IL a short time ago and would like to explain what happened to me there. My house was shot by a BB gun several times and ruined some of the siding.  More

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Over 19 years ago

marion is a great place for young people to get going in thier lives. marion is also a great place to retire at. marion needs more young people spots and i think marion  More

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