Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Portage, IN
Considering a move to Portage, IN? This welcoming city of nearly 38,000 residents features affordable living, with median home prices around $211,000 and average rents of $1,170. Portage boasts a modest cost of living index (88.2), low commute times (about 26 minutes), and crime rates below national averages. Local schools offer solid educational opportunities, and residents enjoy four-season weather with over 54% sunny days. Portage is a great choice for families and professionals seeking value and a close-knit community.
Demographics - Portage, IN
Demographics - Portage, IN
Portage, IN is a mid-sized city of about 37,900 residents, offering a community with a balanced gender ratio and a median age near 39. The population is predominantly white, though there is a growing diversity with over 10% non-English speakers. The city maintains a moderate population density, fostering a welcoming suburban atmosphere.
Population:
37,926
Density:
1,500 per sq mi
Median Age:
39.2
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
10.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
77.1%
Black:
8.5%
Asian:
1.4%
Others:
13.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Portage, IN?
Portage boasts an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $211,000 and average rents at $1,170. Its overall cost of living index sits below the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. Residents also benefit from reasonable utility and transportation expenses.
Median House Value:
$211,000
Gross Rent:
$1,170
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,080
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,410
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$520
State Taxes:
Low:
3.15%
|
High:
5.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
88.2
Grocery:
94.5
Housing:
76.0
Utilities:
98.0
Transportation:
92.0
Health Care:
94.0
Miscellaneous:
91.5
Crime
Is Portage, IN a safe place to live?
Portage experiences crime rates below the national average, with a chance of violent crime at about 1 in 420 and property crime at 1 in 68. This contributes to a sense of safety that appeals to families and those seeking a secure environment. The city's relatively low crime index enhances its appeal as a residential destination.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
238
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,480
Crime Index:
1,718
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 420
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 68
Weather
What is the weather like in Portage, IN year-round?
Residents of Portage enjoy four distinct seasons, with warm summers averaging highs in the low 80s and cold winters dipping to the upper teens. The city receives approximately 39 inches of rainfall annually and sees sunshine about 54% of the year. This climate supports a variety of outdoor activities year-round.
Winter
Min:
18°F
Max:
33°F
Spring
Min:
39°F
Max:
63°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
44°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
38.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Households in Portage typically earn around $65,100, with a family income of $78,500 and a poverty rate of just over 11%. Most residents commute about 26 minutes to work, and public transportation use is minimal. Educational attainment is strong, with over 91% holding a high school diploma or higher.
Median Income:
$33,200
Household Income:
$65,100
Family Income:
$78,500
Per Capita Income:
$29,600
Income Male:
$45,000
Income Female:
$36,300
Poverty Rate:
11.3%
Non English Speakers:
10.5%
Rent:
$1,170
Unemployment Rate:
4.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
26.3 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.8%
Bachelors or More:
19.2%
Education
How are the schools in Portage, IN?
Portage offers a strong public school system, highlighted by Portage High School and Willowcreek Middle School, as well as private options like Nativity of Our Savior School. Higher education is easily accessible, with Indiana University Northwest and Purdue University Northwest located within 20 miles. The city values educational achievement and provides ample learning opportunities for all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Portage High School
Street:
6450 US Hwy 6
Phone:
219-763-8100
Students:
2,400
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.6
Name:
Willowcreek Middle School
Street:
5962 Central Ave
Phone:
219-763-8090
Students:
1,000
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.2
Private Schools
Name:
Nativity of Our Savior School
Street:
2949 Willowcreek Rd
Phone:
219-763-2400
Students:
220
Colleges
Name:
Indiana University Northwest
City:
Gary
State:
IN
Distance:
15 miles
Students:
3,700
Name:
Purdue University Northwest
City:
Hammond
State:
IN
Distance:
19 miles
Students:
8,600
Healthcare
Portage residents have access to quality healthcare, including Northwest Health and nearby Methodist Hospitals, both offering emergency services. The city features about 2.1 physicians per 1,000 people and a high health insurance coverage rate of 93.5%. These resources ensure comprehensive medical care for the community.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Northwest Health - Portage
Address:
3630 Willowcreek Rd, Portage, IN 46368
Phone:
(219) 364-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Methodist Hospitals - Southlake Campus
Address:
8701 Broadway, Merrillville, IN 46410
Phone:
(219) 738-5500
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.5%
Health Care Index:
73.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Portage, IN?
The housing market in Portage is stable, with a median home price of $211,000 and a strong owner-occupied rate of nearly 72%. Rental options are available, and home values have appreciated by 4.7% over the past year. Low foreclosure and vacancy rates make it an appealing market for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$211,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,170
Owner Occupied Rate:
71.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.7%
New Construction Rate:
1.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Portage residents are served by the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located on US Highway 6. The local DMV offers standard licensing and registration services, with additional information and appointment scheduling available online. This ensures easy access to essential vehicle and driver services.
State:
Indiana
Department:
Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Address:
5365 US Highway 6, Portage, IN 46368
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.