Is Marianna Safe, Pros and cons of living in Marianna
Marianna, Florida, nestled in the heart of Jackson County, presents a unique blend of Southern charm and developing opportunities. This city offers a distinct lifestyle for its residents, characterized by a slower pace and a close-knit community atmosphere. As with any locale, understanding the various facets of life in Marianna is key for those considering a move.
This guide delves into the essential aspects of living in Marianna, covering safety, cost of living, employment, education, and the local environment. By providing a comprehensive overview, this article aims to assist prospective residents in making an informed decision about whether Marianna is the right fit for their needs and aspirations.
Is it Safe to Live in Marianna?
Marianna’s crime rates present a complex picture. The city experiences a violent crime rate that is significantly higher than the national average, with an estimated rate of 541.4 per 100,000 residents, which is 42% above the national average (as reported by DoorProfit). Residents have approximately a 1 in 185 chance of becoming a victim of violent crime annually.
Property crime rates also exceed national averages, with an estimated rate of 2,332.0 per 100,000 residents, 27% higher than the national average (as reported by DoorProfit). The overall crime rate in Marianna is 36% above the national average as of 2026 (as reported by DoorProfit). Specific concerns include assault, which is 48% above average, and vehicle theft, which is 15% above average (as reported by DoorProfit). The FBI Crime Data Explorer indicates that over a five-year period, Marianna recorded 464 violent crimes and 513 property crimes, with property crime being the most common offense (as reported by FBI Crime Data Explorer). It is important to note that safety can vary significantly by neighborhood, and researching specific areas is recommended (as reported by DoorProfit).
Housing Costs and Availability
The housing market in Marianna offers a more affordable option compared to many other areas. The median sale price of a home in Marianna was $265,000 as of last month, showing a significant increase of 32.5% since last year (as reported by Redfin). The median sale price per square foot is $162, which is up by 64.5% from the previous year (as reported by Redfin). Homes in Marianna tend to sell for about 9% below the list price and typically go pending in around 80 days, indicating a less competitive market (as reported by Redfin).
Rental prices in Marianna are also considerably lower than the national average. The average rent for an apartment in Marianna, FL is currently $950, representing a 25% decrease compared to the previous year (as reported by Zumper). A one-bedroom apartment averages around $785, while a two-bedroom is approximately $900 (as reported by Zumper). Houses for rent are slightly more expensive, with an average monthly cost of $997 (as reported by Zumper). As of May 2026, the median rent for all property types in Marianna is $950, which is 50% lower than the national average (as reported by Zumper).
Job Market and Economy
Marianna’s economy is supported by a mix of local businesses and larger retail operations. The average annual salary in Marianna, FL is approximately $37,000, with an hourly rate of $17.79 (as reported by Zippia). The median wage is reported at $39.4K per year (as reported by ZipRecruiter). The county-level average annual pay was $47,323 in 2024 (as reported by Florida State Authority).
Key employers in Jackson County include Jackson Hospital with 691 employees, Family Dollar Services, Inc. with 589 employees, and Walmart Supercenter with 410 employees (as reported by Jackson County Economic Development Committee). Other significant employers include Signature Healthcare at the Courtyard and Rex Lumber Company (as reported by Jackson County Economic Development Committee). The top employment sectors for residents are Health Care & Social Assistance, Professional, Scientific & Technical Services, and Public Administration (as reported by Data USA).
Cost of Living
Marianna is recognized for its affordability, with a cost of living that is notably lower than both the national and state averages. The overall cost of living in Marianna is 17% lower than the national average and 19% lower than the Florida average (as reported by AreaVibes). This affordability extends to housing, which is 45% lower than the national average (as reported by AreaVibes).
Monthly expenses for a single person are estimated at $2,202, and for a family of four, around $4,849 (as reported by Salary.com). These figures reflect lower costs in housing, transportation, food, and healthcare compared to national benchmarks (as reported by Salary.com). For example, housing costs are approximately 22% below the national average, and food expenses run about 19% below average (as reported by Salary.com).
Climate and Environment
Marianna experiences a climate typical of the Southeastern United States, with distinct seasons. Summers are long, hot, and humid, with average daily high temperatures exceeding 85°F from May to September (as reported by Weather Spark). The hottest month is typically July, with average highs around 91°F and lows of 73°F (as reported by Weather Spark).
Winters are short and mild, with average daily high temperatures below 68°F from December to February. January is the coldest month, with average lows around 42°F and highs of 62°F (as reported by Weather Spark). Marianna receives an average of 54 inches of rainfall annually (as reported by Livability.com), and it is generally wet and partly cloudy throughout the year (as reported by Weather Spark).
Demographics and Community
Marianna’s population is diverse, with a notable presence of both Black and White residents. As of the latest US Census data, the population is approximately 7,150, making it the 410th most populated city in Florida out of 955 (as reported by CUBIT). The racial composition includes approximately 44.2% Black or African American and 43.8% White residents, followed by Hispanic and other groups (as reported by CUBIT).
The median age in Marianna is 36.9 years (as reported by CUBIT). The median household income was $40,414 in 2024 (as reported by CUBIT), though 17.4% of families live in poverty (as reported by CUBIT). The city is home to Chipola College, contributing to the local educational landscape.
Education System
The public school system in Marianna is part of the Jackson County School District. This district serves approximately 6,094 students in grades PK-12, with a student-teacher ratio of 18 to 1 (as reported by Niche). According to state test scores, about 50% of students are proficient in math and 54% in reading (as reported by Niche).
Marianna High School, serving grades 9-12, has an overall Niche grade of B+ and a student-teacher ratio of 18:1 (as reported by Niche). Marianna K-8 School, serving kindergarten through eighth grade, also holds a B- rating and has a student-teacher ratio of 15:1 (as reported by Niche). The district is recognized for its teachers, ranking among the top in Florida for teacher quality (as reported by Niche).