Universal, IN
Population 273 · Indiana
About Universal, IN
Universal is a small community located in Indiana with a population of 273 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $63,250 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 36.8 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Universal features a median home value of $70,500, which is 71% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Universal one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $575, 51% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 127 total housing units, 90% are owner-occupied (101 units) and 10% are renter-occupied (11 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Universal shows an unemployment rate of 0.9%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 14.7%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Universal have an average one-way commute time of 31.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
14.4% of Universal 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 0.4% White, 6.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.4% of the population being foreign-born.
How Universal Ranks in Indiana
Cost of Living in Universal, IN
Compared to national averages, Universal has a median household income of $63,250 (16% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $70,500, which is 71% below the national median. Monthly rent at $575 is 51% below the US average of $1,163. Within Indiana, Universal's income is 9% below the state average of $69,330, and home values are 57% below the state median of $163,409.
Why Live in Universal, IN?
Universal offers affordable housing with a median home value of $70,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $575/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.9%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($63,250) that falls below the national average. However, Universal’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Universal has a population of 273 with a median age of 36.8 years. Compare Universal with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Indiana.
Similar Cities Near Universal
Cities in Indiana with a similar population size.
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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Universal
What is the population of Universal, IN?
The population of Universal, IN is 273 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Indiana.
What is the median household income in Universal?
The median household income in Universal, IN is $63,250 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Universal?
The median home value in Universal, IN is $70,500, which is 71% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Universal?
The median monthly rent in Universal, IN is $575, which is 51% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Universal?
The unemployment rate in Universal, IN is 0.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Universal, IN a good place to live?
Universal offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 273 and a median age of 36.8, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Universal, IN?
14.4% of residents in Universal 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 Universal?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Universal, IN: median home value is $70,500 (71% below national), median rent is $575/month, and median household income is $63,250. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Universal?
The poverty rate in Universal, IN is 14.7%, 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 Universal, IN?
Universal's population is 0.4% White, 6.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.4% of residents are foreign-born.