Everything You Should Know Before Moving to South Bend, IN
Considering a move to South Bend, IN? With a population of 103,110, the city offers affordable living—median homes run about $129,000 and rent averages $950. Commutes are short, averaging 20 minutes, and the city enjoys 53% sunny days each year. While crime rates are higher than national averages, South Bend features accessible healthcare, diverse neighborhoods, and is home to the renowned University of Notre Dame. With reasonable costs, a lively local culture, and four distinct seasons, South Bend is an inviting option for families, students, and professionals alike.
Demographics - South Bend, IN
Demographics - South Bend, IN
South Bend is home to just over 103,000 residents, offering a youthful vibe with a median age of 33.4 years and a blend of cultures, including a notable Black community at 25%. The city’s moderate population density and 12.2% of non-English speakers create a diverse, urban environment that welcomes newcomers from various backgrounds.
Population:
103,110
Density:
2,500 per sq mi
Median Age:
33.4
Gender Ratio:
94 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
12.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
56.0%
Black:
25.0%
Asian:
2.1%
Others:
16.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in South Bend, IN?
South Bend stands out for its affordable cost of living, with median home values around $129,000 and average rents at $950 per month. The city’s cost of living index is well below the national average at 79.8, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious movers.
Median House Value:
$129,000
Gross Rent:
$950
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$118
Auto Insurance:
$1,070
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,150
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$430
State Taxes:
Low:
3.23%
|
High:
4.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
79.8
Grocery:
92.1
Housing:
51.6
Utilities:
98.0
Transportation:
85.2
Health Care:
90.6
Miscellaneous:
94.4
Crime
Is South Bend, IN a safe place to live?
While South Bend has a higher crime rate than many U.S. cities, with a 1 in 85 chance of experiencing violent crime, many residents find that staying informed about neighborhoods helps them feel secure. Property crime is more common, so newcomers are encouraged to take standard precautions.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
1,182
Property Crimes Per 100k:
4,177
Crime Index:
5,359
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 85
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 24
Weather
What is the weather like in South Bend, IN year-round?
South Bend experiences all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 18°F and pleasantly warm summers reaching highs around 83°F. Residents enjoy 53% sunny days and nearly 40 inches of annual rainfall, making for a climate with variety and distinct seasonal changes.
Winter
Min:
18°F
Max:
34°F
Spring
Min:
39°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
41°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
39.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
53%
Neighbors
The city’s median household income is $45,000, with a poverty rate of 22.3%, reflecting a community with a mix of economic backgrounds. Most residents have a high school diploma, and average commute times are short at just over 20 minutes, contributing to a convenient lifestyle.
Median Income:
$25,800
Household Income:
$45,000
Family Income:
$55,300
Per Capita Income:
$22,600
Income Male:
$35,200
Income Female:
$28,100
Poverty Rate:
22.3%
Non English Speakers:
12.2%
Rent:
$950
Unemployment Rate:
5.5%
Public Transport Usage:
1.2%
Commute Time:
20.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
85.9%
Bachelors or More:
25.1%
Education
How are the schools in South Bend, IN?
South Bend supports education with a range of public and private schools, plus close proximity to the prestigious University of Notre Dame. Local schools maintain moderate student-teacher ratios, and higher education is easily accessible for both traditional and non-traditional students.
Public Schools
Name:
John Adams High School
Street:
808 S Twyckenham Dr
Phone:
574-393-5300
Students:
1,900
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.8
Name:
Kennedy Academy
Street:
609 N Olive St
Phone:
574-393-3100
Students:
430
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.4
Private Schools
Name:
St. Joseph High School
Street:
453 N Notre Dame Ave
Phone:
574-233-6137
Students:
900
Colleges
Name:
University of Notre Dame
City:
Notre Dame
State:
IN
Distance:
2 miles
Students:
12,800
Name:
Indiana University South Bend
City:
South Bend
State:
IN
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
4,800
Healthcare
South Bend offers reliable healthcare access, with two major hospitals providing a range of services and 91.8% of residents insured. With 2.1 physicians per 1,000 people, healthcare is accessible for most families and individuals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Memorial Hospital of South Bend
Address:
615 N Michigan St, South Bend, IN 46601
Phone:
(574) 647-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center
Address:
5215 Holy Cross Pkwy, Mishawaka, IN 46545
Phone:
(574) 335-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.8%
Health Care Index:
68.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in South Bend, IN?
The local housing market is affordable and stable, boasting a median home price of $129,000 and an owner-occupied rate of 57.5%. Home values have appreciated modestly over the past year, while rental options remain widely available.
Median Home Price:
$129,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$950
Owner Occupied Rate:
57.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.4%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Vehicle registration and licensing are managed by the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles at the South Bend branch on Ireland Road, with comprehensive resources available online or by phone for new residents.
State:
Indiana
Department:
Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1139 E. Ireland Road, South Bend, IN 46614
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.