Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Rensselaer, IN
Thinking of moving to Rensselaer, IN? With a friendly small-town atmosphere and a population of about 5,500, Rensselaer offers affordable living with median home prices around $154,000 and average rents near $800. Residents enjoy a low violent crime rate (117 per 100K), short 17.5-minute commutes, and access to local schools and healthcare. The city features four distinct seasons, reasonable cost of living, and a welcoming community—perfect for those seeking comfort and value in northwest Indiana.
Demographics - Rensselaer, IN
Demographics - Rensselaer, IN
Rensselaer is a close-knit city of about 5,500 residents, with a median age of 37.8 and a balanced gender ratio. The community is predominantly White, with a small but growing diversity, and most residents speak English at home. Its moderate population density fosters a welcoming small-town feel ideal for families and newcomers alike.
Population:
5,481
Density:
1,700 per sq mi
Median Age:
37.8
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
91.2%
Black:
2.0%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
6.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Rensselaer, IN?
Living in Rensselaer is highly affordable, with a cost of living index well below the national average and median home values around $154,000. Residents benefit from low housing and utility costs, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. Everyday expenses like groceries and transportation also remain manageable compared to larger cities.
Median House Value:
$154,000
Gross Rent:
$800
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,150
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$470
State Taxes:
Low:
3.23%
|
High:
3.23%
Cost Of Living Index:
76.2
Grocery:
93.5
Housing:
58.0
Utilities:
96.2
Transportation:
88.0
Health Care:
90.3
Miscellaneous:
88.5
Crime
Is Rensselaer, IN a safe place to live?
Rensselaer boasts a low violent crime rate, with just 117 incidents per 100,000 residents, offering peace of mind for families and individuals. Property crime is also moderate, making the city a relatively safe place to live. Residents can enjoy a strong sense of security in their daily lives.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
117
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,215
Crime Index:
1,332
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 855
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 82
Weather
What is the weather like in Rensselaer, IN year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 83°F and chilly winters dipping to 17°F. The city receives about 37 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine more than half the year. This climate supports a variety of outdoor activities year-round.
Winter
Min:
17°F
Max:
33°F
Spring
Min:
39°F
Max:
63°F
Summer
Min:
61°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
42°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
37.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
The typical household in Rensselaer enjoys a median income of nearly $54,000, with a low unemployment rate and a poverty rate comparable to national figures. Most adults have at least a high school diploma, and the average commute is a convenient 17.5 minutes. The community is welcoming, with a strong sense of neighborliness and stable local employment.
Median Income:
$29,700
Household Income:
$53,900
Family Income:
$67,800
Per Capita Income:
$24,600
Income Male:
$39,800
Income Female:
$31,200
Poverty Rate:
13.1%
Non English Speakers:
6.5%
Rent:
$800
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
17.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
87.6%
Bachelors or More:
19.2%
Education
How are the schools in Rensselaer, IN?
Rensselaer offers quality educational options, including public schools like Rensselaer Central High School and Van Rensselaer Elementary, both with favorable student-to-teacher ratios. There are also private school choices and convenient access to nearby colleges, supporting lifelong learning for all ages. The community values education, making it a supportive environment for families with children.
Public Schools
Name:
Rensselaer Central High School
Street:
1106 E Grace St
Phone:
219-866-5175
Students:
540
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.6
Name:
Van Rensselaer Elementary School
Street:
902 E Washington St
Phone:
219-866-5441
Students:
625
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Private Schools
Name:
St. Augustine Catholic School
Street:
328 N McKinley Ave
Phone:
219-866-5480
Students:
110
Colleges
Name:
Saint Joseph's College (closed, former campus)
City:
Rensselaer
State:
IN
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
N/A
Name:
Purdue University Northwest
City:
Westville
State:
IN
Distance:
41 miles
Students:
9,400
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is strong in Rensselaer, with Franciscan Health Rensselaer providing emergency and general medical services locally. Most residents have health insurance coverage, and there are 1.6 physicians per 1,000 people, supporting a healthy community. The city’s healthcare resources ensure that families have reliable care close to home.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Franciscan Health Rensselaer
Address:
1104 E Grace St, Rensselaer, IN 47978
Phone:
(219) 866-5141
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.8%
Health Care Index:
65.7
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Rensselaer, IN?
The housing market in Rensselaer is accessible, with a median home price of $154,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $800. Most residents are homeowners, reflecting the city's stability, while rental options remain available with moderate vacancy rates. Home values have seen steady appreciation, making it an appealing place to invest in property.
Median Home Price:
$154,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$800
Owner Occupied Rate:
63.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.9%
DMV Information
Vehicle services for Rensselaer residents are managed by the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest office located in Monticello. The BMV offers essential services including licensing, registration, and title transfers. Residents can access resources online or by phone for added convenience.
State:
Indiana
Department:
Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Address:
820 W Fisher St, Monticello, IN 47960
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.