countyscore
26
County Score
Soil Quality 76.5Lawn Care 75.2Water Quality 71.3

County Report Card

About Marion County, Indiana

Urban Hub Trails National Median

Marion County earns a composite score of 25.9, placing it well below the national median of 50.0. This score reflects the significant urban challenges the county faces relative to peers across the United States. It currently ranks in the bottom third of counties nationwide for overall livability.

Indiana's Capital Lags Behind State Average

While it serves as the state's economic engine, Marion's 25.9 score sits far below the Indiana average of 55.9. The county struggles to match the livability benchmarks set by its suburban and rural neighbors. This gap highlights a stark contrast between urban Indianapolis and the broader state.

Strong Water Infrastructure and Income Potential

The county excels in water quality with a score of 71.3, indicating reliable local utilities. Income levels also remain a relative bright spot at 49.4, bolstered by a median household income of $63,450. These metrics demonstrate the county's role as a primary center for employment and infrastructure.

Critical Safety and Risk Hurdles

Public safety and environmental risk are the county's primary concerns, with scores of 2.6 and 2.5 respectively. These low figures impact the overall index and reflect high-density urban pressures. Improving these areas is essential for lifting the county's total livability profile.

Best for Career-Focused Urbanites

Marion County suits young professionals and career-seekers who prioritize access to jobs and city amenities over high safety scores. It offers the infrastructure of a major metro area but requires a trade-off in personal security metrics. It remains the top choice for those wanting to be at the heart of Indiana's economy.

Score breakdown

Tax43.2Cost20.6Safety2.6Health35.3Schools20.1Income49.4Risk2.5Water71.3Weather60.5
🏛43.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠20.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼49.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡2.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤35.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓20.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡2.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧71.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤60.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨76.5
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱75.2
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Explore this county

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Nearby counties

Johnson County
Indiana
47.3
Hancock County
Indiana
52.8
Hendricks County
Indiana
47.5
Hamilton County
Indiana
52.1
Shelby County
Indiana
48.5
Boone County
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55.4
Morgan County
Indiana
62.9
Rush County
Indiana
64.3

Deep Dives

Marion County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Marion County

via TaxByCounty

Marion County taxes beat national average

Marion County's effective tax rate of 0.929% is well below the national median of 1.1%, placing it in the lower-tax tier nationally. Homeowners here pay $1,923 annually on a median home valued at $207,000—significantly less than the national median property tax of $2,690.

Highest taxes among Indiana counties

Marion County ranks first among all Indiana counties with a 0.929% effective tax rate, 38% above the state average of 0.671%. This position reflects higher assessed values and tax rates in Indiana's most populous county.

Marion stands out in central Indiana

Marion County's 0.929% rate significantly exceeds neighboring Monroe County (0.702%) and Marshall County (0.683%), making it the highest-taxing county in the region. Among nearby counties, only Newton County approaches Marion's burden at 0.826%.

Annual tax on typical Marion home

A homeowner with a median-valued property of $207,000 pays approximately $1,923 per year in property taxes. This amount rises to $2,001 when accounting for mortgage-related assessments.

Check your assessment before paying

Many Marion County homeowners are overassessed relative to market values and can appeal their tax assessments. Requesting a reassessment review could reduce your annual tax bill—it costs nothing to challenge an inflated valuation.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Marion County

via CostByCounty

Marion's rent burden tops national norms

Marion County renters spend 20.9% of their income on housing, outpacing the national affordability sweet spot of roughly 18%. The county's median household income of $63,450 falls about $11,300 short of the national median, tightening budgets across the board.

Among Indiana's priciest counties

At a 20.9% rent-to-income ratio, Marion County ranks among the least affordable in Indiana, where the state average sits at 15.6%. The median rent of $1,107 runs $224 above the state average, making Marion one of the costlier places to rent in the state.

Notably steeper than surrounding areas

Marion County's median rent of $1,107 significantly exceeds nearby Morgan County ($988) and Marshall County ($936), though it remains cheaper than Monroe County's $1,151. The income-adjusted burden in Marion is also higher, reflecting both elevated costs and lower median household income relative to neighbors like Morgan County.

Where Marion's income goes

The typical Marion County renter pays $1,107 monthly while earning $5,287 gross—leaving just 20.9% for housing. Homeowners with a $207,000 median home value face $1,144 in monthly costs, consuming similar portions of that $63,450 household income.

Weighing Marion against Indiana options

If housing affordability is a priority, compare Marion's 20.9% rent burden to more affordable neighbors like Martin County (11.8%) or Montgomery County (14.9%). Marion's higher costs may be justified by urban amenities and job density, but renters and buyers should run the numbers against neighboring counties before deciding.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Marion County

via IncomeByCounty

Marion County lags national income average

Marion County's median household income of $63,450 falls $11,305 short of the national median of $74,755, placing it in the lower half of U.S. counties. This 15% gap reflects economic challenges in the county's largest urban center, Indianapolis.

Below average for Indiana

Marion County ranks below Indiana's state median of $68,681, meaning most other Indiana counties earn more. However, the county's per capita income of $36,355 slightly exceeds the state average of $34,773, suggesting concentration of wealth among fewer earners.

Middle of the pack regionally

Marion County's $63,450 income trails Morgan County ($79,088) and Marshall County ($68,041), but exceeds Miami County ($61,130) and Martin County ($65,345). Among central Indiana's diverse economies, Marion's position reflects its mix of urban and suburban demographics.

Rent remains affordable here

A rent-to-income ratio of 20.9% means Marion County households spend just under one-fifth of income on rent, staying below the 30% affordability threshold. With a median home value of $207,000, homeownership remains accessible for households earning the county median.

Build financial resilience today

Marion County households earning $63,450 can build wealth by automating savings and exploring low-cost index funds—even modest contributions compound significantly over time. Consider consulting a local nonprofit credit counselor or financial advisor to develop a plan tailored to your income level.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Marion County

via CrimeByCounty

Marion County faces higher crime rates

Marion County's total crime rate of 4335.7 per 100K is nearly double the national average of 2,385.5. Its safety score of 93.2 is the lowest in this group, reflecting the challenges of a major metropolitan area. Eleven reporting agencies manage the high volume of incidents in the county.

Measuring the urban-state safety gap

Marion County's total crime rate of 4335.7 is over six times higher than the Indiana state average of 693.8. Its safety score of 93.2 falls significantly below the state average of 98.9. As the state's most populous county, it naturally experiences more concentrated criminal activity.

Regional comparisons for the state capital

Marion County is significantly more active than its suburban neighbors like Johnson County. Its violent crime rate of 1007.0 is nearly ten times the state average of 102.9. This reflects the urban nature of the county compared to the quieter surrounding regions.

Analyzing violent and property crime

Violent crime is a major concern at 1007.0 per 100K, nearly triple the national average. Property crime is also high at 3328.7 per 100K, compared to the national rate of 2,015.7. Residents and visitors should be aware of these significantly elevated risks.

Taking security seriously in Marion County

High-quality home security systems and cameras are strongly recommended for Marion County residents. Ensure all windows and doors are reinforced and stay aware of your surroundings at all times. Active community participation in crime prevention is vital for improving local safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Marion County

via HealthByCounty

Marion County's health lags national pace

At 73.0 years, Marion County residents live about 5 years less than the U.S. average of 78.1 years. One in five residents (21.7%) report poor or fair health, outpacing the national average of 16%. These gaps signal persistent health challenges that demand local attention.

Below average, even for Indiana

Marion County trails Indiana's average life expectancy of 75.1 years by 2.1 years. With 21.7% reporting poor or fair health, the county ranks among Indiana's healthier counties for self-reported status. Yet the uninsured rate of 9.8% exceeds the state average of 8.4%, leaving thousands without coverage.

Urban center with unique challenges

Marion County's 73.0-year life expectancy is notably lower than nearby Monroe County (77.5 years) and Marshall County (75.9 years), despite having stronger primary care access at 78 providers per 100K. The county's 390 mental health providers per 100K rank among the state's highest, yet broader life expectancy gaps persist.

Coverage and care access vary widely

Nearly one in ten Marion County residents (9.8%) lack health insurance, meaning approximately 60,000 people navigate healthcare without coverage. The county offers strong mental health support with 390 providers per 100K, but primary care physician access at 78 per 100K remains uneven across neighborhoods.

Get covered—Marion County has options

With nearly 10% uninsured, now is the time to explore coverage. Visit healthcare.gov or contact a local navigator to see what Medicaid, Marketplace plans, or employer coverage is available to you. Financial help exists—many plans cost less than you think.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Marion County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Vast Education Network in Indianapolis

Marion County operates the state's largest education infrastructure with 255 total public schools across 80 districts. This massive network serves 158,453 students, supported by 153 elementary, 35 middle, and 45 high schools.

Graduation Rates and Local Investment

The county's 83.7% graduation rate currently trails both the Indiana state average of 92.6% and the national 87.0% benchmark. While the $6,296 per-pupil expenditure exceeds the state average of $5,507, it remains significantly below the $13,000 national spending average.

Leading Districts and Charter Presence

Indianapolis Public Schools is the largest provider with 22,027 students, followed by MSD Lawrence Township and MSD Wayne Township. Charter schools are a major pillar here, with 67 campuses representing over 26% of all public schools in the county.

Urban Centers and Massive Campus Sizes

With 229 schools in city settings, the average school size is 644 students, though specialized campuses like Indiana Connections Academy serve over 5,700 students. Traditional high schools like North Central and Warren Central also operate at scale, each enrolling over 3,400 students.

Locate Your Home Near Indianapolis Schools

With such a diverse range of 80 districts and specialized charter options, finding the right neighborhood is key to your student's success. Explore local listings to see how school proximity and district boundaries factor into the Marion County housing market.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Marion County

via RiskByCounty

Marion County faces significantly above-average risk

Marion County's composite risk score of 97.49 ranks it in the high-risk category, more than double Indiana's state average of 45.52. This elevated rating reflects substantial exposure to multiple hazard types, particularly tornadoes and earthquakes. Nationally, Marion County's profile places it among counties with notably heightened natural disaster vulnerability.

The riskiest county in Indiana

Marion County stands as Indiana's most hazard-exposed county by composite risk score, significantly outpacing all other regions in the state. Its 97.49 score dwarfs the statewide average of 45.52, reflecting concentrated vulnerability across flood, tornado, and earthquake hazards. No other Indiana county faces comparable levels of combined natural disaster risk.

Risk levels vary dramatically nearby

Surrounding counties show dramatically lower risk profiles: Morgan County scores 63.49, Monroe County scores 75.99, and Miami County scores 52.80. Marion County's 97.49 composite risk substantially exceeds all adjacent regions, making it a clear outlier in central Indiana. Residents here face substantially different hazard exposure than those in neighboring areas.

Tornadoes and earthquakes dominate here

Marion County faces extreme tornado risk (99.01) and severe earthquake risk (96.37), each among the highest in the nation for their respective hazards. Flood risk also runs high at 98.28, creating a triple threat that demands serious preparation. These three hazards alone account for the county's status as Indiana's most at-risk region.

Comprehensive coverage is essential

Marion County residents should prioritize comprehensive homeowners insurance including flood coverage, as standard policies exclude both flooding and earthquake damage. Given the county's extreme tornado exposure (99.01), reinforced safe rooms or storm shelters can be life-saving investments. Annual policy reviews and disaster preparedness drills are especially critical in this high-risk environment.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Marion County

via WeatherByCounty

A Stable National Median Climate

Marion County’s annual average of 52.9°F is very close to the median for the United States. Its 43.2 inches of annual precipitation is standard for the humid continental zone.

Slightly Warmer than State Average

At 52.9°F, the county is slightly warmer than the Indiana state average of 52.2°F. Urban development in Indianapolis likely contributes to this localized warmth.

Warmer Than Rural Northern Neighbors

Marion County is noticeably warmer than Lake or LaPorte counties to the north. It receives 23.1 inches of snow, which is more than its southern neighbor Lawrence.

Hot Summers and Snowy Winters

Summer brings 17 days of extreme heat over 90°F, the highest in the central region. Winter averages 30.8°F with over 23 inches of snowfall.

Plan for Urban Heat Extremes

Efficient air conditioning is a priority given the 17 extreme heat days. Residents should also keep snow shovels ready for the 23.1 inches of annual snowfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Marion County

via SoilByCounty

A balanced pH in the urban heart

Marion County maintains an average soil pH of 6.60, which sits slightly above the national median of 6.5 and well above the Indiana average of 6.08. While specific taxonomic data is limited for this urban area, the 76.5 soil score suggests a high-quality foundation for the capital city's green spaces. This near-neutral acidity is ideal for a wide variety of plants without needing heavy lime adjustments.

Silt-heavy soils for easy gardening

The county's soil is 54.3% silt, providing a smooth texture that is easier to work than heavy clay. With 26.2% sand and 19.6% clay, this mix offers a stable structure for urban development and landscaping. The significant silt content helps the soil hold together while allowing roots to penetrate easily.

Solid water capacity despite lower organic matter

Organic matter sits at 2.53%, which exceeds the national average of 2.0% but falls short of the state average of 4.90%. Despite this, the soil boasts an available water capacity of 0.209 in/in, outperforming the state benchmark of 0.202. This means plants here have a better-than-average reservoir of water during dry spells.

A mystery in local hydrology

Current data does not specify a dominant drainage class or hydrologic group for this metro region. Urban development often modifies natural drainage, so local site assessments are vital for understanding how water moves across your yard. Gardeners should observe their specific plot after a heavy rain to determine if supplemental drainage is needed.

Urban gardening in Zone 6b

Marion County falls into hardiness zone 6b, where the soil and climate are perfect for tomatoes, peppers, and diverse ornamental shrubs. The favorable soil score of 76.5 indicates that your backyard likely has the potential for a thriving garden. Start planting today to take advantage of these balanced soil conditions.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Marion County

via LawnByCounty

Above-Average Growing Conditions in Marion County

Marion County earns a lawn difficulty score of 75.2, significantly higher than the national average of 50.0 and better than the Indiana state average of 71.0. Residents in this 6b hardiness zone generally find maintenance easier than most due to a favorable balance of temperature and precipitation.

Steady Rainfall Supports Local Growth

The county receives 43.2 inches of annual precipitation, which falls perfectly within the ideal 30-50 inch range for healthy grass. With 17 extreme heat days per year, the 3580 growing degree days provide a robust window for mowing and nutrient uptake without excessive thermal stress.

Neutral Soils Minimize Preparation Work

A soil pH of 6.60 puts local yards in the sweet spot for nutrient absorption, requiring fewer chemical adjustments than neighboring counties. The soil composition is well-balanced with 19.6% clay and 26.2% sand, providing a stable foundation that resists heavy compaction.

Managing Moderate Drought Periods

Despite 28 weeks spent in some level of drought over the past year, current conditions show no severe drought (D2+) present. About 87.1% of the county is abnormally dry, so focused morning watering is recommended to sustain root systems during dry spells.

Fall Seeding Offers Best Results

Tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass thrive in this 6b zone, especially when seeded after the first fall frost around October 26. Aim to finish any major sodding projects after the final spring frost on April 18 to ensure young roots take hold in warming soil.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Marion County's county score?
Marion County, Indiana has a composite county score of 26 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Marion County rank among counties in Indiana?
Marion County ranks #92 among all counties in Indiana on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Marion County, Indiana?
The median annual property tax in Marion County is $1,923, with an effective tax rate of 0.93%. This earns Marion County a tax score of 43.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Marion County?
The median household income in Marion County, Indiana is $63,450 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Marion County earns an income score of 49.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Marion County, Indiana a good place to live?
Marion County scores 26/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #92 in Indiana. The best way to evaluate Marion County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Marion County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

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Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.