East Chicago, IN
Population 26,158 · Indiana
About East Chicago, IN
East Chicago is a mid-sized city in Indiana with a population of 26,158 residents. The median household income is $41,071 per year, which is below the national average. The median age in East Chicago is 36.5 years.
Housing in East Chicago has a median home value of $92,400 and median monthly rent of $820. Of the 12,429 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 4,403 owner-occupied and 5,584 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in East Chicago is 7.9% and the poverty rate is 27.0%. 9.9% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 21.9 minutes.
How East Chicago Ranks in Indiana
Cost of Living in East Chicago, IN
Compared to national averages, East Chicago has a median household income of $41,071 (45% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $92,400, which is 62% below the national median. Monthly rent at $820 is 29% below the US average of $1,163. Within Indiana, East Chicago's income is 41% below the state average of $69,330, and home values are 43% below the state median of $163,409.
Why Live in East Chicago, IN?
East Chicago offers affordable housing with a median home value of $92,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $820/month, and short commute times averaging just 21.9 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($41,071) that falls below the national average. However, East Chicago’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
East Chicago has a population of 26,158 with a median age of 36.5 years. Compare East Chicago with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Indiana.
Similar Cities Near East Chicago
Cities in Indiana with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Franklin | 25,999 | $77,305 | $212,500 | Compare |
| Greenfield | 24,308 | $74,949 | $205,800 | Compare |
| Munster | 23,733 | $105,764 | $312,000 | Compare |
| Schererville | 29,627 | $86,020 | $294,600 | Compare |
| Avon | 22,683 | $97,589 | $300,600 | Compare |
| Hobart | 29,646 | $71,680 | $203,400 | Compare |
| La Porte | 22,125 | $59,862 | $143,800 | Compare |
| Clarksville | 22,121 | $58,518 | $172,700 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Indiana
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare East Chicago With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about East Chicago
What is the population of East Chicago, IN?
The population of East Chicago, IN is 26,158 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in East Chicago?
The median household income in East Chicago, IN is $41,071 per year.
What is the median home value in East Chicago?
The median home value in East Chicago, IN is $92,400.
What is the average rent in East Chicago?
The median monthly rent in East Chicago, IN is $820.
What is the unemployment rate in East Chicago?
The unemployment rate in East Chicago, IN is 7.9%.