South Bend, IN

Very Low · 58

Indiana · Population 102,866 · Updated March 2026

$1,000
Median Rent / Month
$52,512
Median Income
$124,500
Median Home Value
$901
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in South Bend

22.9%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Affordable
Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

Tax Burden in Indiana

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

3.05%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
7.0%
Sales Tax
0.83%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$12,000
Annual Rent
$1,602
State Income Tax
$1,033
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

South Bend is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 58 (where 100 equals the national median), South Bend residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,000/month while earning a median household income of $52,512/year.

The median home value in South Bend, IN is $124,500, with typical monthly owner costs around $901 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 22.9% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

Indiana has a moderate income tax rate of 3.05%. Combined with a 7.0% sales tax rate and 0.83% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in South Bend.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in South Bend

What is the cost of living in South Bend, IN?
The cost of living index in South Bend, IN is 58 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $1,000, median household income is $52,512/year, and the median home value is $124,500.
Is South Bend, IN affordable?
Yes, South Bend is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 58. The rent-to-income ratio is 22.9%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in South Bend, IN?
The median gross rent in South Bend, IN is $1,000 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $12,000.
What is the median household income in South Bend?
The median household income in South Bend, IN is $52,512 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in Indiana?
Indiana has a top income tax rate of 3.05%, a sales tax of 7.0%, and an effective property tax rate of 0.83%.