Mishawaka, IN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
51,021
0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$54,291/yr
2.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
25,024
1.2% year-over-year change

Mishawaka population

How many people live in Mishawaka

Mishawaka is home to 51,021 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Mishawaka locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
51,021
0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
25,311
Female
50.4%
25,710
Value Percent YoY change
Male 25,311 49.6% -1.5%
Female 25,710 50.4% 2.0%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Mishawaka is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.5% are children under 15, then 14.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.2% of the population, while another 23.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
36
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.5%
15 to 24
14.6%
25 to 44
28.2%
45 to 64
23.2%
Over 65
16.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 8,915 17.5% -5.2%
15 to 24 7,430 14.6% 5.9%
25 to 44 14,368 28.2% -3.2%
45 to 64 11,823 23.2% 4.8%
Over 65 8,485 16.6% 1.4%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Mishawaka, 92.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 75.3% of locals are Caucasian, 11.1% are African American and 2.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 9.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.6%
Non-citizens
4.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 47,020 92.2% -0.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,830 3.6% 11.3%
Non-citizens 2,171 4.3% 12.3%
Racial breakdown
White
75.3%
Black or African American
11.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
2.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9.3%
Other
1.8%
Value Percent
White 38,405 75.3%
Black or African American 5,658 11.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 27 0%
Asian 1,240 2.4%
Two or more races 4,752 9.3%
Other 939 1.8%

Households in Mishawaka

A peek inside Mishawaka households

Mishawaka has 22,850 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 49.8% are families, while the remaining 50.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
22,850
1.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
11,468
Family households
11,382
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 11,468 50.2% 4.3%
Family households 11,382 49.8% -0.5%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Mishawaka

The housing landscape of Mishawaka

Mishawaka's housing consists of 25,024 units, with 49.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.2% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 4.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
25,024
1.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 12,382 49.5%
1 unit, attached 1,539 6.2%
2 units 312 1.2%
3 or 4 units 1,854 7.4%
5 to 9 units 2,798 11.2%
10 to 19 units 1,989 8%
20 to 49 units 1,645 6.6%
50 or more units 1,468 5.9%
Mobile home 1,037 4.1%
Homes built since 2020
403
119.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Mishawaka

In Mishawaka, the median construction year is 1975. About 19.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 4,926 19.7% 13.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,410 5.6% 2.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,118 8.5% -16.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,027 8.1% -13.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,799 15.2% -2.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,052 12.2% 0.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,608 10.4% 11.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,384 9.5% 1.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,297 9.2% -1.9%
Built in 2020 or later 403 1.6% 119.0%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Mishawaka occupancy rates

Out of the 22,850 occupied housing units in Mishawaka, 49.3% are owner-occupied, while 50.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
22,850
1.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
11,579
Owner occupied
11,271
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 11,579 50.7% 2.1%
Owner occupied 11,271 49.3% 1.7%
Unoccupied housing units
8.7%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Mishawaka housing costs

Housing costs in Mishawaka come to a median of $1,018 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,070.

Median housing costs per month
$1,018/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Mishawaka
$1,070/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Mishawaka

Mishawaka education at a glance

About 40.9% of the population in Mishawaka went to high school, while 24.2% pursued college studies. Another 6.7% earned an associate degree and 16.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 654 1.6% 10.1%
High school diploma 16,533 40.9% -1.5%
College diploma 9,772 24.2% 4.7%
Associate degree 2,699 6.7% -8.8%
Bachelor's degree 6,788 16.8% 2.8%
Graduate degree 3,983 9.8% 7.2%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Mishawaka

How much people earn in Mishawaka

The average annual household income in Mishawaka was $76,017 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $54,291, reflecting a +2.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Mishawaka
$76,017/year
4.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Mishawaka
$54,291/year
2.2% year-over-year change

Mishawaka income by age

In Mishawaka, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $59,529. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $62,446 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $49,938, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $38,138 in earnings. Overall, 83.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $49,938 -2.9%
25 - 44 $59,529 -6.1%
45 - 64 $62,446 1.5%
Over 65 $38,138 10.4%
Above poverty level
40,994
Below poverty level
8,117
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 40,994 83.5% 0.9%
Below poverty level 8,117 16.5% 3.2%

Average renter income in Mishawaka

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Mishawaka, their median household income was $39,755 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 32.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$39,755
Rent-to-income ratio
32.3%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Mishawaka

Workforce and job types in Mishawaka

The job market in Mishawaka is powered by 25,492 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.7% run their own businesses, 67.3% are employed by private companies, and 13% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
25,492
2.6% year-over-year change
White collar
18,999
Blue collar
6,493
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 18,999 74.5% 3.2%
Blue collar 6,493 25.5% 0.9%
Employer type
Self employees
6.7%
Private companies
67.3%
Governmental workers
13%
Not for profit companies
13.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,699 6.7% 21.1%
Private companies 17,151 67.3% -1.7%
Governmental workers 3,308 13% 24.4%
Not for profit companies 3,334 13.1% 0.1%
Unemployment rate
6.8%
3.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Mishawaka stands at 6.8%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Mishawaka

How people get around in Mishawaka

Commuting methods vary: 87.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 21,909 87.4% 2.9%
Taxicab 57 0.2% 375.0%
Bus or trolleybus 222 0.9% -17.2%
Subway or elevated 41 0.2% N/A
Motorcycle 135 0.5% 27.4%
Bicycle 6 0% -80.0%
Walk 457 1.8% -16.1%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Mishawaka by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
46544 31,077 12,839 $58,829 $81,535
46545 26,606 11,878 $56,865 $75,497

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FAQs about Mishawaka demographics 

What is the total population of Mishawaka?

Mishawaka has a total population of 51,021 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Mishawaka?

The gender ratio in Mishawaka is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (25,311 residents)
  • 50.4% females (25,710 residents)

What is the median age in Mishawaka?

The median age in Mishawaka is 36.

What is the age distribution of the population in Mishawaka?

The age distribution in Mishawaka is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.5% (8,915 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.6% (7,430 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.2% (14,368 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.2% (11,823 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.6% (8,485 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Mishawaka?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Mishawaka is as follows:
  • White: 75.3% (38,405 residents)
  • Black or African American: 11.1% (5,658 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (27 residents)
  • Asian: 2.4% (1,240 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.3% (4,752 residents)
  • Other: 1.8% (939 residents)

What percentage of the population in Mishawaka are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.2% of the population in Mishawaka.

How many housing units are there in Mishawaka?

There are 25,024 housing units in Mishawaka, reflecting a +1.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Mishawaka and what is the average household size?

Mishawaka has a total of 22,850 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Mishawaka?

Mishawaka has a median household income of $54,291, representing a +2.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Mishawaka?

The employment rate is 93.2% in Mishawaka, with a workforce of 25,492 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.5% (18,999 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.5% (6,493 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.7% (1,699 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.3% (17,151 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13% (3,308 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.1% (3,334 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025