South Bend, IN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
103,085
0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$55,786/yr
6.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
47,775
0.5% year-over-year change

South Bend population

How many people live in South Bend

South Bend is home to 103,085 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.8% of South Bend locals are male, and 52.2% are female.

Total population
103,085
0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.8%
49,330
Female
52.2%
53,755
Value Percent YoY change
Male 49,330 47.8% 0.6%
Female 53,755 52.2% -0.2%
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 South Bend is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.9% are children under 15, then 13.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.6% of the population, while another 21.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.9%
15 to 24
13.8%
25 to 44
28.6%
45 to 64
21.7%
Over 65
15%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 21,572 20.9% -1.7%
15 to 24 14,231 13.8% -5.0%
25 to 44 29,473 28.6% 1.6%
45 to 64 22,376 21.7% 0.0%
Over 65 15,433 15% 6.0%
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 South Bend, 90.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 53.5% of locals are Caucasian, 22.7% are African American and 2.3% have Asian roots. Another 0.5% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 5.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 15% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
90.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.6%
Non-citizens
5.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 93,398 90.6% 0.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,749 3.6% -1.3%
Non-citizens 5,938 5.8% -6.0%
Racial breakdown
White
53.5%
Black or African American
22.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
2.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
15%
Other
5.8%
Value Percent
White 55,192 53.5%
Black or African American 23,444 22.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 510 0.5%
Asian 2,364 2.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 78 0.1%
Two or more races 15,497 15%
Other 6,000 5.8%

Households in South Bend

A peek inside South Bend households

South Bend has 41,282 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 54.7% are families, while the remaining 45.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
41,282
0.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
18,696
Family households
22,586
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 18,696 45.3% -1.1%
Family households 22,586 54.7% 1.6%
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 South Bend

The housing landscape of South Bend

South Bend's housing consists of 47,775 units, with 71.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.3% 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 0.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
47,775
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 34,215 71.6%
1 unit, attached 1,562 3.3%
2 units 1,448 3%
3 or 4 units 1,871 3.9%
5 to 9 units 2,772 5.8%
10 to 19 units 1,870 3.9%
20 to 49 units 1,701 3.6%
50 or more units 2,001 4.2%
Mobile home 335 0.7%
Homes built since 2020
248
24.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in South Bend

In South Bend, the median construction year is 1955. About 28.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 12.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 13,526 28.3% 5.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 5,937 12.4% 5.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 9,570 20% -6.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4,305 9% 0.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,314 9% -8.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,304 4.8% -0.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,908 6.1% -10.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,545 5.3% 15.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,118 4.4% 16.0%
Built in 2020 or later 248 0.5% 24.6%
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.

South Bend occupancy rates

Out of the 41,282 occupied housing units in South Bend, 60.2% are owner-occupied, while 39.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
41,282
0.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
16,421
Owner occupied
24,861
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 16,421 39.8% -3.0%
Owner occupied 24,861 60.2% 2.8%
Unoccupied housing units
13.6%
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.

South Bend housing costs

Housing costs in South Bend come to a median of $924 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,033.

Median housing costs per month
$924/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 South Bend
$1,033/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 South Bend

South Bend education at a glance

About 41.8% of the population in South Bend went to high school, while 19.6% pursued college studies. Another 7.5% earned an associate degree and 16.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,749 3.6% -3.9%
High school diploma 32,087 41.8% 4.9%
College diploma 15,033 19.6% -4.8%
Associate degree 5,772 7.5% 0.1%
Bachelor's degree 12,899 16.8% 1.4%
Graduate degree 8,277 10.8% -1.7%
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 South Bend

How much people earn in South Bend

The average annual household income in South Bend was $75,985 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $55,786, reflecting a +6.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in South Bend
$75,985/year
4.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in South Bend
$55,786/year
6.2% year-over-year change

South Bend income by age

In South Bend, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $61,080. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $65,367 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $28,490, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $41,244 in earnings. Overall, 79.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $28,490 -4.0%
25 - 44 $61,080 6.0%
45 - 64 $65,367 6.1%
Over 65 $41,244 0.8%
Above poverty level
79,058
Below poverty level
20,702
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 79,058 79.2% 2.6%
Below poverty level 20,702 20.8% -7.1%

Average renter income in South Bend

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in South Bend, their median household income was $34,741 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 35.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$34,741
Rent-to-income ratio
35.7%
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 South Bend

Workforce and job types in South Bend

The job market in South Bend is powered by 46,783 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 73.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.8% run their own businesses, 67.6% are employed by private companies, and 9.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
46,783
-0.3% year-over-year change
White collar
34,422
Blue collar
12,361
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 34,422 73.6% -0.7%
Blue collar 12,361 26.4% 0.8%
Employer type
Self employees
6.8%
Private companies
67.6%
Governmental workers
9.8%
Not for profit companies
15.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 3,181 6.8% 8.0%
Private companies 31,643 67.6% 0.2%
Governmental workers 4,599 9.8% -3.5%
Not for profit companies 7,360 15.7% -3.5%
Unemployment rate
6.5%
8.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in South Bend stands at 6.5%, 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 South Bend

How people get around in South Bend

Commuting methods vary: 82.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.2% 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 37,767 82.7% -0.8%
Taxicab 247 0.5% -0.8%
Bus or trolleybus 708 1.6% -7.2%
Railroad 14 0% 133.3%
Motorcycle 28 0.1% -17.6%
Bicycle 523 1.2% 0.6%
Walk 1,003 2.2% -11.6%
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 South Bend by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
46619 21,729 7,858 $48,081 $74,338
46628 27,685 10,787 $61,759 $77,858
46635 6,410 2,718 $81,944 $87,302
46601 4,800 2,066 $30,789 $49,913
46613 12,279 4,244 $42,537 $52,630
46614 29,602 12,206 $74,153 $93,332
46615 14,190 6,337 $62,964 $78,675
46616 5,979 2,501 $58,537 $72,669
46617 10,032 4,465 $74,186 $133,089

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FAQs about South Bend demographics 

What is the total population of South Bend?

South Bend has a total population of 103,085 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 South Bend?

The gender ratio in South Bend is as follows:
  • 47.8% males (49,330 residents)
  • 52.2% females (53,755 residents)

What is the median age in South Bend?

The median age in South Bend is 34.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in South Bend?

The age distribution in South Bend is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.9% (21,572 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.8% (14,231 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.6% (29,473 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.7% (22,376 residents)
  • Over 65: 15% (15,433 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of South Bend?

The racial and ethnic makeup of South Bend is as follows:
  • White: 53.5% (55,192 residents)
  • Black or African American: 22.7% (23,444 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (510 residents)
  • Asian: 2.3% (2,364 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (78 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 15% (15,497 residents)
  • Other: 5.8% (6,000 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 90.6% of the population in South Bend.

How many housing units are there in South Bend?

There are 47,775 housing units in South Bend, reflecting a +0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

South Bend has a total of 41,282 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in South Bend?

South Bend has a median household income of $55,786, representing a +6.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for South Bend?

The employment rate is 93.5% in South Bend, with a workforce of 46,783 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.6% (34,422 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.4% (12,361 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.8% (3,181 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.6% (31,643 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.8% (4,599 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 15.7% (7,360 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