Cost of Living in South bend, IN
South bend cost of living index: 67.77 (below the US average). Median home price: $187,400.
Updated 2026 • Based on 11 local zip codes
📍 Some data sourced from nearby metro area
% below the national average
Housing
Data from 11 zip codes
Housing costs in South bend, IN based on real market data from 11 local zip codes.
Considering a move to South bend, IN? With a housing index of 46.93, the affordability mix here is promising. The median home price stands at 187400.0, suggesting opportunities for homeownership, especially given the steady demand seen in similar regions. Additionally, renting appears reasonable, with average rentals for a 2-bedroom apartment at 37454.0 and a house at . Additionally, the cost of living in South bend is typically lower than national averages, providing a good balance between quality of life and affordability. Make informed choices for your next chapter!
Last updated: January 2026
Utilities
The cost of utilities such as electricity, natural gas, and other services can significantly impact the overall cost of living.
Living in South bend, IN could entail variable utility costs. Electricity costs sit at $14.89, while natural gas is priced at data unavailable per Thousand Cubic Feet. Expect to budget about $103.6 monthly for other services like water and garbage.
Cost Breakdown by Category
Local Income & Economy in South bend, IN
How far does your money go in South bend? Understanding the relationship between income and cost of living is key to evaluating affordability.
How We Calculate Adjusted Purchasing Power in South bend
The adjusted purchasing power shows what a South bend, IN household income is actually worth after accounting for local prices. We calculate it using the formula: Purchasing Power = Median Income ÷ Cost of Living Index × 100
For South bend, that's $49,056 ÷ 67.77 × 100 = $72,386. This means a household earning the median income in South bend has the equivalent buying power of $72,386 in a city where the cost of living index equals the national baseline of 100.
South bend is well below the national cost of living average at 67.77, making it one of the more affordable places to live in IN. The median income of $49,056 has an effective purchasing power of $72,386 — a meaningful boost that allows residents to save more, invest in real estate, or enjoy a higher standard of living compared to expensive metro areas.
However, it's important to note that the poverty rate in South bend is 16%, which is above the national average. While living costs are low, income levels may also be lower for some households. Understanding both the cost of living and local income distribution is important when evaluating whether South bend, IN is the right fit for your budget and lifestyle.
💡 Purchasing power is calculated by dividing the local median household income by the cost of living index and multiplying by 100. A result higher than the nominal income means your money goes further; a lower result means local prices erode your earnings. The US baseline cost of living index is 100.
Pros & Cons of Living in South bend
Pros
- • Access to Notre Dame events
- • Supportive educational programs
- • Strong local community vibe
- • Family-friendly activities abound
- • Developing arts scene
- • Affordable cost of living
- • Low housing prices
- • Plenty of parks and trails
- • Growing job market in tech
- • Diverse food options available
Cons
- • Harsh winter weather conditions
- • Few job opportunities for grads
- • Some socio-economic struggles
- • Higher crime rates reported
- • Limited nightlife options
- • Limited shopping destinations
- • Public transport is lacking
- • Not very walkable city
- • Racial tensions in some areas
- • Schools can be underfunded
💡City Insights
South bend scores 8/10 for affordability, 5/10 for safety, and 5/10 for family-friendliness — an good overall profile. Its strongest aspect is affordability, making it particularly suitable for budget-conscious buyers. This balanced profile makes South bend worth considering for various lifestyle priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in South bend, IN? ▼
The cost of living in South bend, IN is 32% lower than the national average, with a cost of living index of 68 (where 100 represents the U.S. average). Housing typically accounts for the largest portion of living expenses. See full cost of living breakdown →
How much does it cost to buy or rent a home in South bend, IN? ▼
In South bend, IN, The median home price is $187,400. requiring approximately $83,014 annual income to afford. Average rent is $37,454/month (requiring ~$1,498,160/year income). The local median household income is $49,056, making homeownership attainable for typical residents. Explore South bend real estate data →
Is South bend, IN a safe place to live? ▼
South bend, IN is average in terms of safety, with crime rates near the national average. Safety varies significantly by neighborhood. View detailed South bend crime statistics →
What salary do you need to live comfortably in South bend, IN? ▼
To live comfortably in South bend, IN and afford a median-priced home of $187,400, you would typically need a household income of $46,850 to $58,562 per year. The local median household income is $49,056. Renting requires approximately $1,498,160/year (at $37,454/month). See full affordability analysis →
What are the best neighborhoods in South bend, IN? ▼
The best neighborhoods in South bend, IN depend on your priorities. For families, look for areas near top-rated schools with lower crime rates. For affordability, neighborhoods throughout the city offer good value since the median home price of $187,400 is below the national average.
How are the taxes in South bend, IN? ▼
Tax rates in South bend, IN include state and local components. The cost of living index of 68 suggests a lower overall tax and expense burden cost environment compared to the national average. View detailed South bend tax information →
How does South bend, IN compare to nearby cities? ▼
South bend, IN offers a more affordable alternative to nearby communities. With a cost of living index of 68, median home prices of $187,400, and a crime rate of 0 per 1,000 residents, you can compare these metrics side-by-side. Use the compare feature to evaluate specific cities.
What is the weather like in South bend, IN? ▼
Weather in South bend, IN varies by season. Climate data varies by season. View detailed South bend climate & environment data →
What factors affect cost of living in South bend, IN? ▼
The main factors affecting cost of living in South bend, IN include housing costs (the biggest factor), utilities, groceries, transportation, and healthcare. Local taxes and the overall economic conditions also play a role.
Housing Costs by Zip Code
Detailed housing data across 11 zip codes in South bend, IN.
| Zip Code | Median Home Price | Avg Rent | 2BR Rent | For Sale | For Rent |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 46601 | $199,900 | $1,292/mo | $2,138/mo | 15 | 13 |
| 46613 | $110,000 | $1,105/mo | $1,100/mo | 35 | 17 |
| 46614 | $219,900 | $1,272/mo | $1,029/mo | 126 | 6 |
| 46615 | $174,900 | $1,539/mo | $1,275/mo | 33 | 16 |
| 46616 | $150,000 | $1,452/mo | $1,675/mo | 16 | 12 |
| 46617 | $479,000 | $3,731/mo | $975/mo | 49 | 27 |
| 46619 | $128,200 | $1,078/mo | $1,050/mo | 42 | 10 |
| 46624 | — | — | — | — | — |
| 46628 | $99,900 | $1,246/mo | $999/mo | 361 | 23 |
| 46635 | $259,900 | $1,958/mo | $363,000/mo | 22 | 4 |
| 46637 | $279,500 | $1,929/mo | $1,299/mo | 102 | 13 |
Explore More About South bend, IN
📅 Last Updated: January 2026
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (ACS), Bureau of Labor Statistics, Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER), Zillow, Redfin