Lake Station, IN
Population 13,109 · Indiana
About Lake Station, IN
Lake Station is a mid-sized city located in Indiana with a population of 13,109 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $56,306 per year, which is 25% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.2 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Lake Station features a median home value of $124,800, which is 49% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Lake Station one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,115, 4% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 5,120 total housing units, 69% are owner-occupied (3,303 units) and 31% are renter-occupied (1,450 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Lake Station shows an unemployment rate of 14.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 16.7%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Lake Station have an average one-way commute time of 28.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
8.7% of Lake Station 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 23.3% White, 2.0% Hispanic or Latino, 6.3% Black or African American, and 1.2% Asian residents, with 8.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Lake Station, IN
Compared to national averages, Lake Station has a median household income of $56,306 (25% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $124,800, which is 49% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,115 is 4% below the US average of $1,163. Within Indiana, Lake Station's income is 19% below the state average of $69,330, and home values are 24% below the state median of $163,409.
Why Live in Lake Station, IN?
Lake Station offers affordable housing with a median home value of $124,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,115/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($56,306) that falls below the national average. However, Lake Station’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Lake Station has a population of 13,109 with a median age of 34.2 years. Compare Lake Station with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Indiana.
Similar Cities Near Lake Station
Cities in Indiana with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Connersville | 13,241 | $45,679 | $96,300 | Compare |
| Auburn | 13,464 | $62,339 | $172,800 | Compare |
| Speedway | 13,622 | $57,158 | $209,400 | Compare |
| Bedford | 13,824 | $50,253 | $136,900 | Compare |
| Madison | 12,277 | $57,050 | $186,600 | Compare |
| Washington | 12,192 | $50,000 | $130,700 | Compare |
| Martinsville | 11,913 | $56,186 | $140,400 | Compare |
| Chesterton | 14,326 | $88,536 | $280,400 | 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 Lake Station With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Lake Station
What is the population of Lake Station, IN?
The population of Lake Station, IN is 13,109 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 Lake Station?
The median household income in Lake Station, IN is $56,306 per year, which is 25% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Lake Station?
The median home value in Lake Station, IN is $124,800, which is 49% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Lake Station?
The median monthly rent in Lake Station, IN is $1,115, which is 4% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Lake Station?
The unemployment rate in Lake Station, IN is 14.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Lake Station, IN a good place to live?
Lake Station offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 13,109 and a median age of 34.2, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Lake Station, IN?
8.7% of residents in Lake Station 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 Lake Station?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Lake Station, IN: median home value is $124,800 (49% below national), median rent is $1,115/month, and median household income is $56,306. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Lake Station?
The poverty rate in Lake Station, IN is 16.7%, 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 Lake Station, IN?
Lake Station's population is 23.3% White, 2.0% Hispanic or Latino, 6.3% Black or African American, 1.2% Asian, and 2.8% two or more races. 8.9% of residents are foreign-born.