Indiana / Lake County

Moving to Gary, IN

Thinking of making a move to Gary, IN? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Gary, IN

Considering a move to Gary, IN? This welcoming community of 66,583 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $57,000 and average rents near $900. Commute times average 26 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (52% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Gary's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Gary, IN

Gary has a population of 66,583 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 39 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 14% White, 78% Black, and 0% Asian residents, and over 6% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
66,583
Density
1,335 per sq mi
Median Age
39.3
Gender Ratio
88 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
6.1%

Ethnic Composition

White
13.6%
Black
77.9%
Asian
0.4%
Others
8.1%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Gary, IN?

The cost of living in Gary is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 78.5. Median home values are around $57,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $900. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$57,000
Gross Rent
$900
Monthly Electricity Charges
$120
Auto Insurance
$1,150
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$850
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$380
State Taxes
Low: 3.23%| High: 5.75%
Cost Of Living Index
78.5
Grocery
93.1
Housing
28.5
Utilities
92.8
Transportation
97.5
Health Care
92.6
Miscellaneous
93.2

Crime

Is Gary, IN a safe place to live?

Gary is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 1,047 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 32. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Indiana.

Violent Crimes Per 100k
1,047
Property Crimes Per 100k
3,153
Crime Index
4,200
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 95
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 32

Weather

What is the weather like in Gary, IN year-round?

Gary experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 84°F and cold winters dipping to 18°F. The area receives about 38 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 52% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
18°F
Max
33°F

Summer

Min
62°F
Max
84°F

Spring

Min
40°F
Max
67°F

Fall

Min
42°F
Max
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches
37.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
52%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $34,779 and a low poverty rate of 32.9%. Over 80% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 14% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 26 minutes, and almost 2% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$32,183
Household Income
$34,779
Family Income
$41,200
Per Capita Income
$18,553
Income Male
$38,200
Income Female
$29,100
Poverty Rate
32.9%
Non English Speakers
6.1%
Rent
$900
Unemployment Rate
8.6%
Public Transport Usage
1.8%
Commute Time
25.9 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
80.2%
Bachelors or More
13.8%

Education

How are the schools in Gary, IN?

Gary offers quality education options, with public schools like Gary Middle College and Banneker Elementary School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Indiana University Northwest and Purdue University Northwest. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

Public Schools

Name
Gary Middle College
Street
131 East 5th Avenue
Phone
219-977-0700
Students
340
Student Teacher Ratio
16.4
Name
Banneker Elementary School
Street
1100 West 16th Ave
Phone
219-881-5460
Students
480
Student Teacher Ratio
18.9

Private Schools

Name
21st Century Charter School
Street
556 Washington St
Phone
219-883-4826
Students
1,000

Colleges

Name
Indiana University Northwest
City
Gary
State
IN
Distance
0 miles
Students
3,800
Name
Purdue University Northwest
City
Hammond
State
IN
Distance
10 miles
Students
9,400

Healthcare

Gary residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Methodist Hospitals Northlake Campus nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 1.8 per 1,000 people and 89.7% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
Methodist Hospitals Northlake Campus
Address
600 Grant St, Gary, IN 46402
Phone
(219) 886-4000
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
1.8
Health Insurance Coverage
89.7%
Health Care Index
64.8

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Gary, IN?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $57,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 53%. The market has seen a 7.5% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 12.3%. Gary offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$57,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$900
Owner Occupied Rate
52.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate
12.3%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
7.5%
New Construction Rate
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate
2.1%

DMV Information

Residents of Gary handle vehicle services through the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in Gary. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Indiana
Department
Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Address
661 Broadway, Gary, IN 46402
Phone
888-692-6841

Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.

FAQs About Moving to Gary, IN

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Gary, review the core fields on this page: population 66,583, median home value $57,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $900, commute time 25.9 minutes, and sunny days percentage 52%.

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