South Bend, IN
Population 102,866 · Indiana
About South Bend, IN
South Bend is a major city located in Indiana with a population of 102,866 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $52,512 per year, which is 30% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.9 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 South Bend features a median home value of $124,500, which is 49% below the national median of $244,900. This makes South Bend one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,000, 14% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 47,558 total housing units, 59% are owner-occupied (24,189 units) and 41% are renter-occupied (16,938 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in South Bend shows an unemployment rate of 6.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 22.6%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in South Bend have an average one-way commute time of 20 minutes.
Education & Demographics
29.4% of South Bend residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 14.2% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.6% Black or African American, and 2.3% Asian residents, with 8.9% of the population being foreign-born.
How South Bend Ranks in Indiana
Cost of Living in South Bend, IN
Compared to national averages, South Bend has a median household income of $52,512 (30% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $124,500, which is 49% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,000 is 14% below the US average of $1,163. Within Indiana, South Bend's income is 24% below the state average of $69,330, and home values are 24% below the state median of $163,409.
Why Live in South Bend, IN?
South Bend offers affordable housing with a median home value of $124,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,000/month, and short commute times averaging just 20 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($52,512) that falls below the national average. However, as a major city, South Bend provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
South Bend has a population of 102,866 with a median age of 33.9 years. Compare South Bend with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Indiana.
Similar Cities Near South Bend
Cities in Indiana with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fishers | 100,918 | $128,141 | $370,200 | Compare |
| Carmel | 100,501 | $134,602 | $455,500 | Compare |
| Evansville | 116,441 | $52,251 | $129,100 | Compare |
| Bloomington | 78,791 | $48,918 | $289,700 | Compare |
| Hammond | 77,098 | $53,950 | $141,700 | Compare |
| Noblesville | 71,940 | $102,319 | $321,800 | Compare |
| Lafayette | 70,650 | $52,946 | $157,600 | Compare |
| Gary | 68,604 | $37,380 | $85,300 | 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 South Bend With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about South Bend
What is the population of South Bend, IN?
The population of South Bend, IN is 102,866 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a major city in Indiana.
What is the median household income in South Bend?
The median household income in South Bend, IN is $52,512 per year, which is 30% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in South Bend?
The median home value in South Bend, IN is $124,500, which is 49% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in South Bend?
The median monthly rent in South Bend, IN is $1,000, which is 14% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in South Bend?
The unemployment rate in South Bend, IN is 6.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is South Bend, IN a good place to live?
South Bend offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 102,866 and a median age of 33.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is South Bend, IN?
29.4% of residents in South Bend 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 South Bend?
Key cost-of-living indicators for South Bend, IN: median home value is $124,500 (49% below national), median rent is $1,000/month, and median household income is $52,512. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in South Bend?
The poverty rate in South Bend, IN is 22.6%, 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 South Bend, IN?
South Bend's population is 14.2% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.6% Black or African American, 2.3% Asian, and 24.1% two or more races. 8.9% of residents are foreign-born.