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Marion, IA

Frequently asked questions

Marion, IA

Marion is a city in Linn County, Iowa, United States.  The population was 26,294 at the 2000 census and was 41,535 in 2020, an increase of 58%. The city is located next to Cedar Rapids and is part of the Cedar Rapids Metropolitan Statistical Area.

The town was named after Francis Marion, a hero of the Revolutionary War. The site was selected in 1839 to be the first county seat of the newly organized Linn County. After years of debate over moving the county seat to Cedar Rapids, it was put to a vote in 1919. The vote was 9,960 in favor of moving the seat and 4,823 not in favor. 

Each year, the city hosts the annual "Swamp Fox Festival", a celebration of Marion's heritage named in honor of the "Swamp Fox", Francis Marion's nickname during the Revolutionary War. The event typically includes a 5K run, parade, fireworks, and many other family-friendly activities.

The town was the home to St. Berchman's Seminary, established in 1905 by the Sisters of Mercy as a boarding school for small boys. The academy, which closed in 1942, consisted of five buildings spread over 23 acres. One of the most famous residents was actor Don Ameche, who lived in the facility as a boy; he went on to star in the movie Cocoon. Today, the main building, now housing apartments, is all that remains. The current site of the Indian Creek Country Club was once the home of a sulky horse racing track. In November 2019, Mayor Nick AbouAssaly won a second term over Mary Lou Pazour with 70 percent of the vote. 

Marion is located at 42°2′16″N 91°35′35″W (42.037649, −91.592925). According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 16.06 square miles (41.60 km²), of which 16.05 square miles (41.57 km²) is land and 0.01 square miles (0.03 km²) is water.

As of the census of 2010, there were 34,768 people, 14,108 households, and 9,308 families living in the city. The population density was 2,166.2 inhabitants per square mile (836.4/km²). There were 15,064 housing units at an average density of 938.6 per square mile (362.4/km²). The racial makeup of the city was 94% White, 2.0% African American, 0.3% Native American, 1.3% Asian, 0.5% from other races, and 1.9% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.0% of the population.

Marion, IA offers a robust selection of health and wellness activities and facilities, catering to diverse needs and preferences. Marion YMCA provides a comprehensive fitness center with a variety of group classes, swimming pools, and youth programs. Aspen Athletic Club features state-of-the-art equipment, personal training, and an array of fitness classes. Thrive Gym offers gymnastics training for all ages, focusing on skill development and physical fitness. Massage Heights provides therapeutic massage and facial services aimed at promoting relaxation and overall well-being. Rural Yoga Tribe creates a peaceful environment for yoga, meditation, and holistic wellness practices. Anytime Fitness ensures 24/7 access to fitness facilities with personalized workout plans and training support. Cedar Rapids Country Club, located nearby, offers golf, swimming, and fitness amenities, blending leisure and physical activity. Together, these facilities foster a vibrant health and wellness community in Marion, enriching the lives of its residents.

Top sites in Marion, IA are Marion Heritage Center, Giving Tree Theater, and The Granger House Victorian Museum.

Population: 42,213 (2023). ZIP code: 52302. Area code: 319. Elevation: 850 ft (260 m). Area: 17.81 sq mi (46.12 km²).

FAQs

What is Marion, IA famous for?

Marion has always been a family-oriented community. A school and churches were established even before permanent homes and business structures were built. As the community grew, new schools were built. Today there are two large school districts in Marion, both noted for their academic excellence. Marion is also the home of Keith Vawter, the founder of the Chautauqua Circuit, a very popular adult education movement of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.

Is Marion, IA a good place to live?

Marion is in Linn County and is one of the best places to live in Iowa. Living in Marion offers residents a dense suburban feel and most residents own their homes. In Marion there are a lot of parks. Many families and young professionals live in Marion and residents tend to lean conservative. The public schools in Marion are highly rated.

What is the average household income in Marion, IA?

In 2022, Marion, IA had a population of 41.4k people with a median age of 39.2 and a median household income of $81,519. Between 2021 and 2022 the population of Marion, IA grew from 41,023 to 41,401, a 0.921% increase and its median household income grew from $75,927 to $81,519, a 7.36% increase. The largest industries in Marion, IA are Manufacturing (3,634 people), Health Care & Social Assistance (2,978 people), and Retail Trade (2,707 people), and the highest paying industries are Utilities ($103,862), Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services ($77,581), and Transportation & Warehousing, & Utilities ($76,163).

Sources

Wikipedia

City of Marion

Data USA

Niche

Marion Heritage Center

Giving Tree Theater

The Granger House Victorian Museum

Marion YMCA

Aspen Athletic Club

Thrive Gym

Massage Heights

Rural Yoga Tribe

Anytime Fitness

Cedar Rapids Country Club

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