Moving to South Bend, IN in 2023? Complete Moving Guide

This is a complete guide for Moving to South Bend, IN.
Get all the information you need to know about moving to South Bend, IN.

Are you pondering about moving to South Bend, Indiana?

South Bend is the 5th largest city in Indiana and it's one of the best places to live in the state. South Ben’s affordable homes and growing job market makes it appealing to millennials, young families, and retirees.

If you’re considering moving to South Bend and wondering if the city is right for you, this guide contains all you need to know to make the right moving decision.

Let’s find out if moving to South Bend is right for you.

facts of South Bend

Quick facts to know before moving to South Bend IN

  • South Bend’s average one-way commute time is less than 20 minutes
  • South Bend’s summer high in July is around 83 degrees
  • South Bend averages 172 sunny days per year
  • South Bend’s median home cost is $138,500
  • Over the past year, South Bend’s jobs have grown by 21.8%
  • South Bend’s cost of living is lower than the U.S. average
  • South Bend’s winter low in January is 16 degrees

What’s the population of South Bend, IN?

South Bend’s population is 104,137 people. The capital city stretches across 42 square miles making it the 5th largest city in Indiana. South Bend is nestled on the St. Joseph River in Indiana. The following is a quick breakdown of the city’s population since you’re considering moving to South Bend, Indiana:

  • South Bend has a population density of 2482 people per square mile
  • The median age in South Bend is 33.7 years.
  • 32.7 years is the median age for males and 35.1 years for females
  • South Bend is currently growing at a rate of 0.22% annually

How fast can you commute in South Bend, Indiana?

South Bend’s average one-way commute time takes 19.9 minutes. That’s lower than the U.S. average of 26.4 minutes. You’ll spend less than 30 minutes commuting to work if you move to South Bend. Less time on the road means less stress and having more time for other things.

Here’s how people in South Bend get to work:

  • About 78.3% of South Bend residents drive their own car alone
  • Around 11.0% of South Bend residents carpool with others
  • Up to 2.9% of South Bend residents work from home
  • About 2.8% of South Bend residents take mass transit

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How is the weather like in South Bend, IN?

South Bend averages 172 sunny days per year. The United States average is 205 sunny days. If the weather is one of the key things you’d like to consider before moving to South Bend, the following is a quick snapshot of the city’s weather:

  • South Bend’s summer high in July is around 83 degrees
  • South Bend gets 40 inches of rain on average per year. The U.S. average is 38 inches
  • On average, South Bend gets 63 inches of snow per year. U.S. average is 28 inches
  • South Bend’s winter low in January is 16 degrees
  • South Bend gets 143 days of precipitation every year
moving to South Bend

Top 10 reasons to move to South Bend, IN

People are moving to South Bend for many reasons. As one of the major cities in Indiana, South Bend is constantly attracting people from all over the state and beyond.

Since you’re considering moving to South Bend, the following are the key reasons people are moving to the city:

  • You’ll experience all four seasons in South Bend
  • Its outdoor recreation is superb
  • The arts scene is thriving
  • South Bend has a robust job market
  • Homes are affordable in South Bend
  • South Bend is centrally located
  • The community is neighborly and diverse
  • South Bend’s cost of living is lower than the national average
  • Its dark fiber is a magnet for tech enterprises
  • It’s an education destination
South Bend pros and cons

Pros & cons of moving to South Bend IN

If you’d like to find out if moving to South Bend is right for you or not, we’ve made a list of the pros and cons of living in the city

This can make it easier for you to figure out if moving to South Bend is right for you:

Pros of living in South Bend, IN Cons of living in South Bend, IN
Low cost of livingCold and snowy winters
Friendly peopleLack of diversity
Low crime ratesLimited public transportation
Low TaxesNot much to do
Excellent universitiesDrug use and addiction
Nice 4-season weatherLack of Diversity
Higher EducationPolitical Climate
College and Professional SportsPoor public transport system
The unemployment rate is about half the national averageFlat plains
Outdoor ActivitiesPoor air quality
place to live South Bend

Best places to live in South Bend Indiana

South Bend is home to several beautiful livable neighborhoods. Moving to South Bend gives you the perfect chance to live in any of these neighborhoods.

If you’re moving to South Bend and wondering what neighborhood the best for you is, the following is a list of the ten best neighborhoods in South Bend:

  • 1. Johnson Rd / Main St
  • 2. Riverside Manor Park
  • 3. Crumstown / Westfield
  • 4. Liberty Hwy / Roosevelt Rd
  • 5. Roseland / University of Notre Dame
  • 6. Inwood Rd / Ireland Trl
  • 7. South Bend Regional Airport
  • 8. Georgetown North
  • 9. Southeast Pond
  • 10. Swanson Park / Bercliff Estates

Tip:When you’ve got a home to move in South Bend, Indiana, getting the best moving quote will be your goal. Request moving company quotes to save on moving cost.

cost of living in South Bend

Cost of living in South Bend, IN

Affordable living in a big city is one of the key perks of moving to South Bend IN. The cost of living in South Bend is 75.0. The United States average is 100.

South Bend’s average cost of living is below the national average. The following are the key components that make up South Bend’s cost of living:

Living Expense South Bend Indiana National Average
Overall7583.7100
Grocery89.692.9100
Health93.594.4100
Housing47.563.8100
Median home cost$138,500$186,100$291,700
Utilities89.697.2100
Transportation77.285.4100
Miscellaneous94.9102100

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South Bend IN Housing Market

If you’re interested in buying a home after moving to South Bend, we have the key information you need to know about the city’s housing market. This will make it easier for you to make up your mind about buying a home or not if you’re moving to South Bend, Indiana:

  • South Bend’s median home cost is $138,500
  • Over the last ten years, home values in South Bend have risen by 65.4%
  • Currently, South Bend’s home values have appreciated by 15.5%
  • Around 34.9% of South Bend’s residents are renters
  • Up to 5.5% of homes and apartments in South Bend are open to rent

What’s the average home rental price in South Bend, IN?

South Bend’s rental market is known for its affordable homes. If you’re considering renting a home or an apartment after moving to South Bend, look at the average rental prices below:

  • South Bend IN average rent for a studio apartment is $641
  • South Bend IN average rent for a 1-bedroom home or apartment is $745
  • South Bend IN average rent for a 2-bedroom home or apartment is $888
  • South Bend IN average rent for a 3-bedroom home or apartment is $1,134
  • The average rent for a 4-bedroom home or apartment is 1,204
jobs in South Bend

How is the job market in South Bend Indiana?

How fast can you get a job if you need one in South Bend? The COVID-19 pandemic has affected several job markets across the United States and South Bend wasn’t left out.

Since you’re considering moving to South Bend, here’s a breakdown of the city’s job market:

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  • South Bend’s unemployment rate is 6.9%. The U.S. average is 6.0%
  • South Bend’s job growth has been positive so far
  • Over the past year, South Bend’s jobs have grown by 21.8%
  • South Bend’s future job growth is predicted to hit 36.04%
  • Getting a job in South Bend is easier compared to other similar sized cities in the state
Employment Information South Bend, Indiana United States
The income per Cap$21,100$31,177
Household Income$37,441$57,652
Unemployment Rate6.9%6.0%
Recent Job Growth-8.29%-6.18%
Future Job Growth36.04%33.51%

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What are the top career options in South Bend, IN?

You’ll find lots of jobs to choose from if you’re moving to South Bend. Which ones should you opt for? You may be interested in some of the city’s highest-paying jobs. The following is the list of the highest-paying jobs in South Bend, IN:

Rank Job Title Average Salary Entry Level Salary # Of People
1Surgeons$260,990$134,45060
2Physicians and Surgeons, All Other$220,450$68,610450
3Dentists, General$197,410$98,180100
4Chief Executives$168,100$80,690220
5Family and General Practitioners$166,460$85,720140
6Physician Assistants$138,880$80,43040
7Business Teachers, Postsecondary$135,420$36,360250
8Architectural and Engineering Managers$122,870$71,80090
9Lawyers$122,010$48,790270
10Pharmacists$114,120$98,700220

What is a good salary in South Bend IN?

Moving to South Bend could mean getting a new job. But how many bucks can you earn in the city? Will you be earning more money or less compared to where you are right now? Let’s find out:

  • South Bend’s average annual pay for average jobs is $49,783
  • South Bend’s average hourly pay is $23.93 per hour
  • South Bend’s average weekly pay is $957 per week
  • South Bend’s average monthly payment is $4,148 per month
  • Indiana’s minimum wage is $10 per hour

Top Industries in South Bend, Indiana

Like several other large cities, South Bend’s economy is powered by several industries. The best part is that whether you work in a small or large industry, you’ll most likely find a suitable spot for your job in South Bend. The following is a list of the city’s largest industries since you’re considering moving to South Bend IN:

  • Food & agribusiness
  • Educational and health services
  • Trade, transportation, and utilities
  • Manufacturing
  • Government
  • Professional and business services
  • Leisure and hospitality
  • Finance
  • Construction and mining
  • Trade, transportation, and utilities
  • Information
  • Financial activities
  • Professional and business services
  • Educational and health services
  • Leisure and hospitality
taxes in South Bend

Taxes in Indiana

If you’re moving to South Bend from out of state, you may have to get familiar with Indiana’s taxes.

The following are the key components that make up the city’s taxes since you’re considering moving to South Bend Indiana:

  • The Income tax in Indiana is 3.23% state-wide flat rate (counties may charge additional rates)
  • Sales tax in Indiana is 7%
  • Property tax in Indiana has a 0.81% average effective rate
  • Indiana Gas tax is 31 cents per gallon of regular gasoline and 51 cents per gallon of diesel

State-wide income tax in Indiana has decreased twice in recent years. In 2015, it lowered from a flat rate of 3.40% to 3.30%. In 2017 and beyond, it decreased further to 3.23%.

South Bend to do

Best things to do in South Bend Indiana

There are lots of exciting things you can do in South Bend. The city is home to several attractions, and you’ll find lots of amazing things to do in South Bend.

If you’re moving to South Bend, we’ve made a list of the various things you can do and places to visit and explore. Check out this list of the best things to do in South Bend Indiana:

  • Snite Museum of Art
  • Potawatomi Zoo
  • Healthworks! Kids’ Museum
  • Navarre Cabin
  • Studebaker National Museum
  • The History Museum
  • East Race Waterway
  • River Lights
  • The Oliver Mansion
  • The Morris Performing Arts Center
  • South Bend Chocolate Factory
  • South Bend Museum of Art
  • Four Winds Field
  • The Indiana Whiskey Company
  • Circa Arts Gallery

What is the crime rate in South Bend, Indiana?

Is South Bend a safe city for you and your loved ones? Like several other large cities in the United States, South Bend has its fair share of crime problems. The following are key stats about the city’s crime rates since you’re considering moving to South Bend, IN:

  • The violent crime rate in South Bend is 42.1. The national average is 22.7
  • The property crime rate in South Bend is 69.3. The national average is 35.4
  • Residents have a 1 in 57.9 chance of being the victim o f a violent crime
  • Residents have a 1 in 27.3 chance of being the victim of a property crime
Statistic Count Raw South Bend/ 100k People Indiana/ 100k People National/ 100k People
Total Crimes Per 100K5,5065,391.72,140.92,346.0
Violent Crime1,7651,728.4357.7387.8
Murder2827.47.56.5
Robbery238233.162.473.9
Aggravated Assault1,4211,391.5253.0279.7
Property Crime3,7413,663.41,783.21,958.2
Burglary659645.3280.4314.2
Larceny2,5112,458.91,274.31,398.0
Car Theft571559.2228.5246.0

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schools in South Bend

Best Schools & Universities in South Bend Indiana?

South Bend is home to several top-quality schools. If you’re moving to South Bend, you’ll have easier access to several excellent schools from universities and colleges to elementary, middle, and high schools.

The following is a list of the best schools in the city if you’re moving to South Bend IN:

Top 5 Public Elementary Schools in South Bend, IN

  • Swanson Traditional School
    Public, K-5 | 431 students, Rating: 8/10

  • Kennedy Primary Academy
    Public, K-5 | 738 students, Rating: 8/10

  • Tarkington Elementary School
    Public, K-5 | 184 students, Rating: 7/10

  • Hamilton Traditional School
    Public, K-5 | 428 students, Rating: 7/10

  • Clay Intermediate Center
    Public, K-8 | 427 students, Rating: 7/10

Top 5 Public Middle Schools in South Bend, IN

  • Lasalle Intermediate Academy
    Public, 6-8 | 635 students, Rating: 8/10

  • Jefferson Traditional School
    Public, 6-8 | 510 students, Rating: 8/10

  • Career Academy Middle School
    Charter, 6-8 | 340 students, Rating: 8/10

  • Clay Intermediate Center
    Public, K-8 | 427 students, Rating: 7/10

  • Jackson Middle School
    Public, 6-8 | 652 students, Rating: 7/10

Top 5 Public High Schools in South Bend, IN

  • Career Academy High School
    Charter, 9-12 | 305 students, Rating: 8/10

  • Adams High School
    Public, 9-12 | 1,913 students, Rating: 8/10

  • Riley High School
    Public, 9-12 | 1,148 students, Rating: 8/10

  • Clay High School
    Public, 9-12 | 988 students, Rating: 7/10

  • Washington High School
    Public, 9-12 | 778 students, Rating: 7/10

Top colleges and universities in South Bend, IN

  • Bethel university

  • Purdue University School of Technology

  • Holy Cross College

  • University of Notre Dame

  • Ivy Tech Community College

  • Tri-State University

  • Saint Mary's College

  • Indiana University South Bend

  • Civil rights heritage center

  • Trine University

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is South Bend Indiana good place to live?

South Bend is a good place to live in. Residents in South Bend enjoy a dense suburban feel, and the majority own their homes. Parks and bars are prevalent in South Bend. South Bend has a large population of families and young professionals, and its citizens lean liberal. South Bend's public schools perform above average.

Why is South Bend so cheap?

South Bend has a low cost of living for many reasons. The fact that Social Security is not taxed in Indiana, where South Bend is located, is one factor in making it a more affordable location to reside. While property taxes are often minimal, Social Security is exempt from state income tax.

Why should I move to South Bend Indiana?

A short trip to the east will take you to Middlebury and Shipshewana, two Indiana towns in Amish Country that are thriving with Amish-owned stores and cafes as well as outdoor activities. Nearby Mishawaka is brimming with retail and dining options and a booming outdoor recreation scene. South Bend is centrally located.

How often does it snow in South Bend Indiana?

The average annual snowfall is 64.5". Snowfall in January is most likely to be significant. The snowiest day was May 26, 1961, and the snowiest day was September 25, 1942. The last snowfall of the season often occurs in mid-April, while the first snowfall of the fall usually occurs around the first of November.

What is winter like in South Bend Indiana?

South Bend, Indiana experiences winter weather. Daily highs hover around 37°F, rarely dropping below 18°F or rising over 56°F. On January 23, the daily maximum temperature is at its lowest, 32°F. Daily lows drop by 4°F, from 30 to 26, and rarely dip below 1°F or rise over 41°F.

What is South Bend known for?

South Bend is known for its health care, education, small business, and tourism. Crowe, Honeywell, and AM General are some of the local significant firms that are still in operation. The adjacent University of Notre Dame has an impact on the business and culture of the area.

Is South Bend walkable?

Views from the Seitz Park area on the St. Joseph River are quite stunning. South Bend is fantastic since there are lots of paths you may use to enjoy the landscape and/or get in a good run or walk.

How much do jobs pay in Indiana?

In Indiana, the yearly average wage as of January 23 is $48,596. In case you need a quick pay estimator, that comes out to be roughly $23.36 per hour. This is equal to $4,049 per month or $934 per week. In Indiana, the median yearly wage falls between $34,424 (25th percentile) and $60,204 (75th percentile).

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