Marion, IN vs Merced, CA
Side-by-side comparison of housing, income, commute, safety, and quality of life.
Score Snapshot
No universal winner
Scores summarize the published model. Use the objective metric differences below and your own priorities to choose.
Marion
85.1
#2 nationally
Merced
64.3
#1702 nationally
Marion leads in crime level (2.9 vs 21.5). Marion leads in average commute (17.1 min vs 27 min). Marion leads in cost of living index (82 vs 121).
Metric-by-Metric Breakdown
| Metric | Marion, IN | Merced, CA |
|---|---|---|
| WhereAtHome Score | 85.1 (#2) | 64.3 (#1702) |
| Population | 28,105 | 93,692 |
| Typical Home Value (ZHVI) | $140,425 | $397,570 |
| Median Household Income | $42,366 | $59,233 |
| Average Commute | 17.1 min | 27 min |
| Walk Score | 40 | 42 |
| Crime Level | 2.9 | 21.5 |
| School Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Cost of Living Index | 82 | 121 |
| Political lean County 2024 presidential margin — context only, not scored | R+41.8 | R+4.4 |
B
85.1 Score
Marion, IN
Small Indiana city with local appeal
Median Home
$140,425
Population
28,105
Crime
Low
Walk Score
40
Midwest
View Marion, IN →
D
64.3 Score
Merced, CA
California community balancing growth and livability
Median Home
$397,570
Population
93,692
Crime
High
Walk Score
42
Pacific
View Merced, CA →