Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Muncie, IN
Thinking of moving to Muncie, IN? With a population of about 65,000, Muncie offers affordable living—median home prices are just $114,000 and average rents around $830. Commute times are short at under 18 minutes, and the city is anchored by Ball State University, offering educational and cultural opportunities. While crime rates are above national averages, Muncie provides a reasonable cost of living, a strong healthcare presence, and a classic Midwestern climate with 58% sunny days.
Demographics - Muncie, IN
Demographics - Muncie, IN
Muncie is home to around 65,000 residents with a youthful median age of 28.5, partly due to its large student population. The city is predominantly White (82.1%) but also features a mix of other ethnic groups and about 6.5% non-English speakers, fostering a diverse and welcoming community. Its moderate population density and balanced gender ratio make it an accessible and friendly place for newcomers.
Population:
65,195
Density:
2,600 per sq mi
Median Age:
28.5
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
82.1%
Black:
8.8%
Asian:
1.8%
Others:
7.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Muncie, IN?
Muncie offers an affordable lifestyle, with median home values at $114,000 and average rents near $830 per month. The cost of living index is well below the national average, making everyday expenses—including groceries, utilities, and transportation—manageable for most households. Low state taxes further enhance the city’s affordability for both renters and homeowners.
Median House Value:
$114,000
Gross Rent:
$830
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,150
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,000
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$400
State Taxes:
Low:
3.23%
|
High:
3.23%
Cost Of Living Index:
76.2
Grocery:
92.1
Housing:
53.2
Utilities:
95.8
Transportation:
87.6
Health Care:
93.0
Miscellaneous:
88.4
Crime
Is Muncie, IN a safe place to live?
While Muncie has a higher-than-average crime rate, with about 377 violent crimes and 2,520 property crimes per 100,000 residents, many areas remain safe and family-friendly. Residents have a 1 in 266 chance of experiencing violent crime, so it’s wise to research neighborhoods and practice common safety measures. Community policing and local engagement continue to address these concerns.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
377
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,520
Crime Index:
2,897
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 266
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 40
Weather
What is the weather like in Muncie, IN year-round?
Muncie enjoys four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 84°F and cold winters dipping to 19°F. The city receives about 41 inches of rainfall each year and boasts 58% sunny days, creating a classic Midwestern climate ideal for those who appreciate seasonal changes. Spring and fall offer mild, pleasant temperatures perfect for outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
19°F
Max:
36°F
Spring
Min:
40°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
84°F
Fall
Min:
42°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
40.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
58%
Neighbors
Muncie’s neighborhoods feature a mix of students, families, and professionals, with a median household income of $39,200 and a family income of $51,000. The area has a relatively high poverty rate at 29.2%, but residents benefit from short average commutes of under 18 minutes and strong educational attainment, with nearly 89% holding at least a high school diploma. The local community is known for its Midwestern friendliness and affordability.
Median Income:
$26,300
Household Income:
$39,200
Family Income:
$51,000
Per Capita Income:
$22,700
Income Male:
$31,500
Income Female:
$24,400
Poverty Rate:
29.2%
Non English Speakers:
6.5%
Rent:
$830
Unemployment Rate:
5.5%
Public Transport Usage:
1.2%
Commute Time:
17.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
88.9%
Bachelors or More:
22.5%
Education
How are the schools in Muncie, IN?
Muncie boasts a variety of educational options, from public schools like Muncie Central High School to private institutions such as St. Mary School. Higher education is a key feature, with Ball State University and Ivy Tech Community College serving over 20,000 and 3,000 students, respectively. The city’s educational landscape supports learners from preschool through college, making it ideal for families and students alike.
Public Schools
Name:
Muncie Central High School
Street:
801 N Walnut St
Phone:
765-747-5211
Students:
1,100
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.9
Name:
Southside Middle School
Street:
1601 E 26th St
Phone:
765-747-5320
Students:
650
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.2
Private Schools
Name:
St. Mary School
Street:
2301 W Gilbert St
Phone:
765-288-5878
Students:
180
Colleges
Name:
Ball State University
City:
Muncie
State:
IN
Distance:
in city
Students:
20,000
Name:
Ivy Tech Community College - Muncie
City:
Muncie
State:
IN
Distance:
in city
Students:
3,000
Healthcare
Healthcare in Muncie is anchored by major providers like IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital, offering comprehensive and emergency services. The city has about 2.1 physicians per 1,000 residents and a high health insurance coverage rate of 92%, ensuring most people have access to quality care. Muncie’s healthcare index suggests reliable services for families and individuals alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital
Address:
2401 W University Ave, Muncie, IN 47303
Phone:
(765) 747-3111
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.0%
Health Care Index:
69.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Muncie, IN?
Muncie’s housing market is highly accessible, with a median home price of $114,000 and an average two-bedroom rent of $830. Over half of the homes are owner-occupied, and the area has seen a steady appreciation rate of 6.2% in the past year, making it attractive for buyers and investors. Rental vacancies remain moderate, offering options for both renters and homeowners.
Median Home Price:
$114,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$830
Owner Occupied Rate:
54.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.9%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Residents can access the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles at a convenient local branch on E McGalliard Road for all their licensing and vehicle registration needs. The office provides standard DMV services and information, and appointments can be made through the official Indiana BMV website. Friendly staff and efficient service help streamline the process for new arrivals.
State:
Indiana
Department:
Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Address:
2904 E McGalliard Rd, Muncie, IN 47303
Phone:
888-692-6841
Website:
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.