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

Total population
1,869
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$45,000/yr
3.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
816
0.6% year-over-year change

South Bend population

How many people live in South Bend

South Bend is home to 1,869 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 56.2% of South Bend locals are male, and 43.8% are female.

Total population
1,869
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
56.2%
1,051
Female
43.8%
818
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,051 56.2% 1.6%
Female 818 43.8% -0.4%
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 48, with the population distributed as follows: about 10% are children under 15, then 18.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 15.8% of the population, while another 36.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
47.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
10%
15 to 24
18.3%
25 to 44
15.8%
45 to 64
36.6%
Over 65
19.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 186 10% -20.2%
15 to 24 342 18.3% 4.9%
25 to 44 296 15.8% -13.4%
45 to 64 684 36.6% 20.2%
Over 65 361 19.3% -6.5%
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, 81.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 8.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 9.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 50.6% of locals are Caucasian, 5% are African American and 5.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 12.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
81.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
8.4%
Non-citizens
9.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 1,531 81.9% -3.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 158 8.4% 77.5%
Non-citizens 180 9.6% 1.1%
Racial breakdown
White
50.6%
Black or African American
5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
5.3%
Asian
5.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
12.7%
Other
20.9%
Value Percent
White 946 50.6%
Black or African American 93 5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 99 5.3%
Asian 103 5.5%
Two or more races 237 12.7%
Other 391 20.9%

Households in South Bend

A peek inside South Bend households

South Bend has 758 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 64.8% are families, while the remaining 35.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
758
2.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
267
Family households
491
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 267 35.2% -7.0%
Family households 491 64.8% 7.9%
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 816 units, with 67.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 14.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
816
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 551 67.5%
3 or 4 units 32 3.9%
5 to 9 units 9 1.1%
10 to 19 units 26 3.2%
20 to 49 units 16 2%
50 or more units 67 8.2%
Mobile home 115 14.1%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in South Bend

In South Bend, the median construction year is 1966. About 32.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 264 32.4% -2.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 28 3.4% -26.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 68 8.3% 19.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 78 9.6% 16.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 149 18.3% 9.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 130 15.9% 31.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 44 5.4% -46.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 33 4% -15.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 22 2.7% -4.3%
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 758 occupied housing units in South Bend, 64% are owner-occupied, while 36% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
758
2.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
273
Owner occupied
485
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 273 36% -8.7%
Owner occupied 485 64% 9.5%
Unoccupied housing units
7.1%
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 $988 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,010.

Median housing costs per month
$988/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
$1,010/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 36.4% of the population in South Bend went to high school, while 25.7% pursued college studies. Another 8.2% earned an associate degree and 13.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 176 11.2% 18.9%
High school diploma 570 36.4% 5.8%
College diploma 402 25.7% -5.4%
Associate degree 129 8.2% 15.2%
Bachelor's degree 210 13.4% -11.0%
Graduate degree 78 5% 27.9%
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 $65,023 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $45,000, reflecting a +3.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in South Bend
$65,023/year
1.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in South Bend
$45,000/year
3.9% 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 $87,625. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $27,167 overall. Overall, 75.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $87,625 12.2%
45 - 64 $27,167 0.7%
Over 65 $41,298 0.3%
Above poverty level
1,378
Below poverty level
439
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 1,378 75.8% 5.6%
Below poverty level 439 24.2% -10.4%

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 $16,136 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 75.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$16,136
Rent-to-income ratio
75.1%
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 714 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 62.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 37.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.8% run their own businesses, 47.6% are employed by private companies, and 38.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
714
12.6% year-over-year change
White collar
447
Blue collar
267
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 447 62.6% 17.6%
Blue collar 267 37.4% 5.1%
Employer type
Self employees
10.8%
Private companies
47.6%
Governmental workers
38.8%
Not for profit companies
2.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 77 10.8% 16.7%
Private companies 340 47.6% -2.9%
Governmental workers 277 38.8% 45.8%
Not for profit companies 20 2.8% -28.6%
Unemployment rate
7.8%
15.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in South Bend stands at 7.8%, 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 South Bend

How people get around in South Bend

Commuting methods vary: 81.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 5.1% 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 546 81.6% 7.7%
Bicycle 30 4.5% N/A
Walk 34 5.1% 25.9%
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
98586 1,801 769 $50,893 $70,822

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FAQs about South Bend demographics 

What is the total population of South Bend?

South Bend has a total population of 1,869 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 +0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in South Bend?

The gender ratio in South Bend is as follows:
  • 56.2% males (1,051 residents)
  • 43.8% females (818 residents)

What is the median age in South Bend?

The median age in South Bend is 47.9.

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

The age distribution in South Bend is as follows:
  • Under 15: 10% (186 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 18.3% (342 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 15.8% (296 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 36.6% (684 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.3% (361 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of South Bend?

The racial and ethnic makeup of South Bend is as follows:
  • White: 50.6% (946 residents)
  • Black or African American: 5% (93 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 5.3% (99 residents)
  • Asian: 5.5% (103 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12.7% (237 residents)
  • Other: 20.9% (391 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 81.9% of the population in South Bend.

How many housing units are there in South Bend?

There are 816 housing units in South Bend, reflecting a +0.6% 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 758 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 $45,000, representing a +3.9% 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 92.2% in South Bend, with a workforce of 714 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 62.6% (447 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 37.4% (267 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.8% (77 residents)
  • Private companies: 47.6% (340 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 38.8% (277 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 2.8% (20 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