Beth Wilson, Economic Development Director

Beth Wilson
Economic Development Director

Email Beth Wilson

Start Smart with Marion's Strategic Advantage

Marion offers a powerful combination of location, leadership, and logistics. Just 12 minutes from downtown Memphis and situated along I-55 and U.S. Highway 64, we connect you to the Mid-South’s strongest workforce and customer base.

Whether you're a national retailer, franchisee, site selector, or entrepreneur, our team is ready to help you start smart—with streamlined permitting, economic incentives, and shovel-ready sites.

  • Located in the Memphis MSA

  • Easy access to I-40, I-55, and Union Pacific Intermodal Yard

  • Fast-track permitting and business-friendly city staff

Ready to Invest in a City that's Ready for You?

Economic development is about building relationships—and we’re ready to work with you. Our team brings energy, experience, and local knowledge to every conversation.

Phone: 870.739.6041

13 E. Military Rd.

Start Smart. Grow Strong. Stay Local.

logistics

Grow Strong with Real Demand

Marion is a city on the rise. With over $137 million in retail leakage and more than 100,000 people in our trade area, the opportunity to grow here is real. Daily traffic counts exceed 50,000 vehicles, and our growing population, school system, and workforce drive consistent demand.

We’ve invested in infrastructure and data that help national brands, developers, and entrepreneurs make smart decisions backed by local momentum.

Arkansas Incentives

From incentives to location, Arkansas makes growth effortless.

Known for its pro-growth policies, low cost of doing business, and tailored incentive programs, Arkansas makes it easy for companies to start, expand, and succeed. From tax credits to workforce training, the state offers competitive advantages that help your investment go further — and grow faster.

Arkansas Incentives

Entergy Arkansas Site Selection

In addition to the two industrial sites listed with AR Site Selection, we maintain a database of available local commercial properties for sale.

To view our Site Selection property listings, please click on the link below.

Marion : The Ideal Location
Demographics and cost of living

DEMOGRAPHIC SNAPSHOT
Population - 13,290
Median Income - $80,170
Median Age - 36
Average Home Price - $299,950
Current Unemployment Rate - 4.2%

COST OF LIVING
According to the Sperling's Best Places website, Marion's overall cost of living places 24.1% under the national average and 8.3% over the AR state average. The breakdown by item as compared to the national average is as follows: Grocery -95.8%, Healthcare - 92.1%, Housing - 56.8%, Utilities - $94.3%, Transportation - 92.6%, and Miscellaneous - 75.7%. The median home cost for Marion is $201,200.

Additional demographic information is available through AR Site Selection, or contact our office at 870.739.6041 to obtain information.

WORKFORCE
A crucial element for the prosperity of any community lies in its skilled workforce. Marion is privileged to host a substantial labor pool and excellent training opportunities, providing a diverse pool of potential employees for your selection. Situated just five minutes away from Arkansas State University Mid-South in West Memphis, and within a 60-minute reach of ASU in Jonesboro, Marion also offers proximity to various higher education options in Memphis.

Arkansas State University Mid-South provides a range of technical programs, including aviation maintenance, auto/diesel maintenance, commercial driving training, mechatronics, welding technology, machining, emergency technician, nursing assistant, health studies, phlebotomy, business, and teaching. As a progressive institution, it has a proven track record in developing training programs tailored to the needs of existing or new industries, and we are ready to assist you in coordinating with them for your specific requirements.

As part of the Memphis Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), Marion and its surrounding region boast excellent educational and specialized training resources, contributing to lower unemployment rates and improved quality of life for our residents.

Crittenden County achieved the ACT Work Ready Communities (WRC) certification in May 2019. This certification equips states, regions, and counties with the data, processes, and tools necessary for economic growth. By leveraging the ACT WorkKeys National Career Readiness Certificate, participants in WRC are effectively measuring and addressing the skills gap, establishing common frameworks that connect, align, and match their workforce development initiatives.

Illustrated map showing Marion, Arkansas located about 15 minutes and 12 miles from Downtown Memphis across the Mississippi River, with major interstates highlighted. Below the map, a “Small Town – Big Opportunity” message features key community data: population of 111,000 within 20 miles, 50,000 cars per day, more than 600 hotel rooms, and $137 million in retail leakage. The graphic includes the Marion Arkansas logo, website marionar.org, social handle @city_of_marion_ar, and contact information for Beth Wilson, Director of Economic Development.