Gary, IN
Population 68,604 · Indiana
About Gary, IN
Gary is a mid-sized city located in Indiana with a population of 68,604 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $37,380 per year, which is 50% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 36.4 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Gary features a median home value of $85,300, which is 65% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Gary one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $975, 16% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 37,963 total housing units, 47% are owner-occupied (12,994 units) and 53% are renter-occupied (14,438 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Gary shows an unemployment rate of 13.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 32.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Gary have an average one-way commute time of 26.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
14.3% of Gary residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 5.3% White, 0.7% Hispanic or Latino, 3.7% Black or African American, and 0.8% Asian residents, with 2.4% of the population being foreign-born.
How Gary Ranks in Indiana
Cost of Living in Gary, IN
Compared to national averages, Gary has a median household income of $37,380 (50% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $85,300, which is 65% below the national median. Monthly rent at $975 is 16% below the US average of $1,163. Within Indiana, Gary's income is 46% below the state average of $69,330, and home values are 48% below the state median of $163,409.
Why Live in Gary, IN?
Gary offers affordable housing with a median home value of $85,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $975/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($37,380) that falls below the national average. However, as a mid-sized city, Gary provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Gary has a population of 68,604 with a median age of 36.4 years. Compare Gary with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Indiana.
Similar Cities Near Gary
Cities in Indiana with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lafayette | 70,650 | $52,946 | $157,600 | Compare |
| Noblesville | 71,940 | $102,319 | $321,800 | Compare |
| Muncie | 64,739 | $43,395 | $92,000 | Compare |
| Greenwood | 64,237 | $78,765 | $248,700 | Compare |
| Hammond | 77,098 | $53,950 | $141,700 | Compare |
| Kokomo | 59,375 | $54,195 | $126,500 | Compare |
| Terre Haute | 58,491 | $41,960 | $109,500 | Compare |
| Bloomington | 78,791 | $48,918 | $289,700 | 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 Gary With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Gary
What is the population of Gary, IN?
The population of Gary, IN is 68,604 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Indiana.
What is the median household income in Gary?
The median household income in Gary, IN is $37,380 per year, which is 50% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Gary?
The median home value in Gary, IN is $85,300, which is 65% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Gary?
The median monthly rent in Gary, IN is $975, which is 16% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Gary?
The unemployment rate in Gary, IN is 13.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Gary, IN a good place to live?
Gary offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 68,604 and a median age of 36.4, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Gary, IN?
14.3% of residents in Gary aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Gary?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Gary, IN: median home value is $85,300 (65% below national), median rent is $975/month, and median household income is $37,380. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Gary?
The poverty rate in Gary, IN is 32.9%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Gary, IN?
Gary's population is 5.3% White, 0.7% Hispanic or Latino, 3.7% Black or African American, 0.8% Asian, and 76.0% two or more races. 2.4% of residents are foreign-born.