Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Winona Lake, IN
Thinking of moving to Winona Lake, IN? With a friendly population of about 5,100, this lakeside community boasts affordable living—median home prices are around $235,000 and average rents near $950. Residents enjoy a low violent crime rate (78 per 100K), short 18-minute commutes, and strong educational opportunities, including Grace College & Seminary. With four-season weather, a family-friendly vibe, and close proximity to healthcare in Warsaw, Winona Lake is a welcoming spot to call home.
Demographics - Winona Lake, IN
Demographics - Winona Lake, IN
Winona Lake is home to approximately 5,100 residents, with a youthful median age of 33.8 and a predominantly White population. The community features a balanced gender ratio and a small but present diversity, with 6.5% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. Its moderately high population density lends a close-knit, neighborhood feel.
Population:
5,100
Density:
1,550 per sq mi
Median Age:
33.8
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
91.2%
Black:
1.9%
Asian:
2.5%
Others:
4.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Winona Lake, IN?
Winona Lake offers a cost of living that is notably below the national average, with a cost of living index of 85.4 and median home values around $235,000. Monthly rental rates are affordable at about $950, and essential expenses such as utilities and groceries remain budget-friendly. State income tax rates are low, making the area attractive for families and young professionals.
Median House Value:
$235,000
Gross Rent:
$950
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,040
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,370
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
3.15%
|
High:
3.23%
Cost Of Living Index:
85.4
Grocery:
92.1
Housing:
73.8
Utilities:
99.0
Transportation:
92.0
Health Care:
95.3
Miscellaneous:
94.0
Crime
Is Winona Lake, IN a safe place to live?
The town enjoys a low crime environment, with violent crime rates at just 78 incidents per 100,000 people and property crimes at 1,040 per 100,000. Residents have a 1 in 1,280 chance of experiencing violent crime, contributing to Winona Lake’s reputation as a safe and secure community. This makes it a reassuring choice for families and retirees alike.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
78
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,040
Crime Index:
1,118
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,280
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 96
Weather
What is the weather like in Winona Lake, IN year-round?
Winona Lake experiences all four seasons, with warm summers reaching highs in the low 80s and cold winters dipping to the upper teens. The area receives about 37 inches of annual rainfall, and residents enjoy sunshine roughly 53% of the year. This climate supports a variety of outdoor activities year-round.
Winter
Min:
18°F
Max:
32°F
Spring
Min:
39°F
Max:
63°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
43°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
37.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
53%
Neighbors
Neighborhoods in Winona Lake are characterized by a median household income of $63,200 and a low unemployment rate of 3.5%. With an average commute of under 18 minutes and a high educational attainment—nearly 96% have completed high school—the community is educated, stable, and family-oriented. Only a small portion of residents rely on public transportation, reflecting its suburban nature.
Median Income:
$35,900
Household Income:
$63,200
Family Income:
$72,500
Per Capita Income:
$28,100
Income Male:
$41,200
Income Female:
$34,600
Poverty Rate:
9.6%
Non English Speakers:
6.5%
Rent:
$950
Unemployment Rate:
3.5%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
17.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
95.8%
Bachelors or More:
37.6%
Education
How are the schools in Winona Lake, IN?
Education in Winona Lake is robust, with well-rated public schools such as Jefferson Elementary and Lakeview Middle, and private options like Lakeland Christian Academy. Higher education is also close at hand, with Grace College & Seminary located in town and Indiana Tech nearby. The strong local schools and college presence support a vibrant academic community.
Public Schools
Name:
Jefferson Elementary School
Street:
1408 E Smith St
Phone:
574-267-7361
Students:
430
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.1
Name:
Lakeview Middle School
Street:
848 E Smith St
Phone:
574-267-5781
Students:
620
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.3
Private Schools
Name:
Lakeland Christian Academy
Street:
1093 S 250 E
Phone:
574-267-7265
Students:
340
Colleges
Name:
Grace College & Seminary
City:
Winona Lake
State:
IN
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,900
Name:
Indiana Tech – Warsaw
City:
Warsaw
State:
IN
Distance:
2 miles
Students:
400
Healthcare
Residents have access to quality healthcare, with major facilities like Kosciusko Community Hospital nearby in Warsaw. The community enjoys strong healthcare coverage, with 92.8% insured and a favorable healthcare index. There are about 2 physicians per 1,000 people, ensuring good availability of medical services.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Kosciusko Community Hospital
Address:
2101 E DuBois Dr, Warsaw, IN 46580
Phone:
(574) 267-3200
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.0
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.8%
Health Care Index:
77.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Winona Lake, IN?
The housing market in Winona Lake is healthy and appealing, with median home prices at $235,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom at $950. Homeownership is common, with 66% of homes owner-occupied and a low foreclosure rate. Home values have appreciated by over 7% in the past year, reflecting steady demand.
Median Home Price:
$235,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$950
Owner Occupied Rate:
66.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.4%
New Construction Rate:
1.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Winona Lake residents are served by the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles in nearby Warsaw, offering convenient access to driver and vehicle services. The DMV is located at 365 Enterprise Dr with helpful staff and online resources available via the state’s official website. Services are accessible by phone or in person for all licensing and registration needs.
State:
Indiana
Department:
Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Address:
365 Enterprise Dr, Warsaw, IN 46580
Phone:
1-888-692-6841
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.