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Elkhart, Indiana

USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence

45
Overall Score

Elkhart, Indiana, often recognized as the "RV Capital of the World," is a city with a rich industrial heritage nestled along the St. Joseph River in northern Indiana. Its economy has historically been driven by manufacturing, particularly the recreational vehicle industry, which continues to be a dominant force. The city offers a blend of small-city charm with a focus on community, attracting individuals and families seeking a more affordable lifestyle. Recent years have seen ongoing efforts in downtown revitalization, including cultural venues and riverfront developments, aiming to enhance the city's appeal and quality of life.

About Indiana

Indiana, known as the "Hoosier State," offers a practical and community-oriented lifestyle with a cost of living generally below the national average. Its economy is diverse, with major industries including advanced manufacturing (automotive, steel, pharmaceuticals, medical devices), agriculture (corn, soybeans, hogs), life sciences, and logistics. The state experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by hot, muggy summers and cold, snowy winters, with spring and fall offering more moderate temperatures. Residents often value a relaxed pace of life, strong community ties, and access to outdoor activities and major metropolitan areas.

54,082
Population
$42K
Avg Salary
91
Cost Index
45.0
Quality Score
How this 45/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
Component Readings used Points Weight Contributes
Safety Safety score: 25 / 100 25.0 30% 7.5
Affordability Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 91.0 55.0 25% 13.8
Economy & jobs Median household income: $51,028 Income needed to live here: $66,000 Unemployment rate: 3.8% 38.8 20% 7.8
Growth Population growth rate: no usable reading Job growth rate: 2% 60.0 15% 9.0
Business climate assessment Business climate assessment: 70 / 100 70.0 10% 7.0
Overall score 45.0

Provenance. These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as Gemini (Tier 3 (deep think), q=77), last refreshed 10 October 2026. They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.

Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.

Businesses in Elkhart

Featured local businesses in Elkhart.

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Quality Scores

Business
70
Livability
68
Affordability
85
Growth
55

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Elkhart is notably more affordable than the national average, making it an attractive option for those looking to stretch their budget. Overall, the cost of living is approximately 8.8% lower than the national average. Housing expenses, in particular, are significantly lower, with average rents and home prices well below national figures. Groceries and utilities also contribute to the city's affordability, being slightly less expensive than the U.S. average. While transportation costs are comparable to the national average, the overall lower expenses for essential goods and services make Elkhart a financially accessible place to reside.

Average Rent
$1,090/mo
Groceries
$400/mo
Transport
$385/mo
Utilities
$369/mo
Healthcare
$139/mo
Gym membership (monthly)
$35.00
Cinema ticket
$14.00
Restaurant meal (mid-range)
$20.00
Monthly groceries
$400.00
Doctor visit (without insurance)
$150.00

Salary Insights

Elkhart's job market is heavily influenced by its robust manufacturing sector, with recreational vehicle (RV) production being the cornerstone of its economy. Manufacturing accounts for a substantial portion of nonfarm employment, and a projected increase in RV shipments for 2026 is expected to sustain local manufacturing jobs. Beyond RVs, general manufacturing and a growing healthcare sector also provide significant employment opportunities. The opening of new facilities, such as Amazon's fulfillment center in late 2025, is anticipated to further boost job growth and diversify the local economy. While specific data on remote work is limited, the city's strong industrial base suggests a predominantly in-person workforce.

The average salary in Elkhart is $42,361 per year. You would need approximately $66,000 to live comfortably.

Top Industries

Retail Trade +1.00% Education +0.50% Healthcare +2.00% General Manufacturing +2.00% RV Manufacturing +3.90%

Climate

🌡️
51°F
Avg Temp
☀️
82°F
Summer High
❄️
19°F
Winter Low
🌧️
36.60"
Annual Rain
💧
70.00%
Humidity
🌤️
239
Sunny Days

Transport

Transportation in Elkhart is largely car-dependent, reflected by its low walkability score of 38 and a minimal transit score of 1. Most residents rely on personal vehicles for commuting, with the average commute time being approximately 16.8 minutes, which is shorter than the Indiana average. Public transportation is available through the Interurban Trolley system, offering routes within Elkhart and to neighboring cities like Goshen and South Bend, with affordable monthly passes. Despite the availability of public transit, the city's infrastructure and layout necessitate a high reliance on cars for daily activities.

17 min
Avg Commute
1.00/10
Transit Score
38.00/10
Walkability
High
Car Dependency

Pros & Cons

Advantages
The cost of living in Elkhart is significantly lower than the national average, particularly for housing and groceries.
Elkhart is the "RV Capital of the World," providing a strong and stable manufacturing job market.
Average commute times are shorter than the Indiana state average, enhancing daily convenience for residents.
The city's crime trajectory shows an improving trend, with violent crime decreasing by 15.5% year-over-year.
Access to affordable healthcare services is available through community health centers offering sliding fee scales.
Drawbacks
Elkhart has a high crime rate, with violent crimes significantly above the national average, earning it a safety grade of 'F'.
The city is largely car-dependent, with low walkability and minimal public transit options.
Elkhart's population is currently experiencing a slight annual decline.
The economy is heavily reliant on the cyclical RV manufacturing industry, which can lead to economic fluctuations.
Despite recent improvements, the overall crime rate remains a significant concern compared to other communities.

Questions about Elkhart

What people ask about living in and moving to Elkhart, Indiana.

What should I know about moving to Elkhart from a larger city? Moving Here 1 answer

Moving to Elkhart means adapting to a smaller population and a more relaxed pace of life. Housing is more affordable, but job opportunities may be more limited to certain industries. It’s helpful to visit neighborhoods, talk to locals, and explore community resources such as the city hall and local libraries to get a feel for the area before settling in.

What’s the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Elkhart? Housing 1 answer

The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Elkhart is about $1,090 per month. This figure reflects typical market rates for mid-range units. If you’re looking for cheaper options, consider studios or shared housing, and for higher-end rentals, expect prices to rise. Local real‑estate listings and rental portals will give you current availability and exact pricing.

Is Elkhart a safe place to live? Safety 1 answer

Elkhart’s safety score is 25 out of 100, indicating higher-than-average crime rates compared to national averages. Common concerns include property crime and some violent incidents. It’s advisable to research neighborhood crime statistics, talk to local residents, and review police department reports for the most current information.

What public transportation options are available in Elkhart? Getting Around 1 answer

Elkhart has a local transit authority that operates bus routes connecting residential areas, commercial centers, and nearby cities. Service frequency varies, with more frequent routes during peak hours. Check the transit authority’s schedule and route maps online to plan your commute and see if any special passes or discounts apply.

What are some popular attractions or activities in Elkhart? Things to Do 1 answer

Elkhart offers a mix of outdoor parks, riverside trails, and seasonal festivals that celebrate local heritage. The city also hosts community events such as farmers’ markets, art fairs, and music concerts. For a calendar of upcoming events, check the city’s tourism page or community bulletin boards.

What’s the overall vibe of living in Elkhart? General 1 answer

Elkhart has a friendly, small‑town atmosphere with a strong sense of community. Residents often participate in local events and support nearby businesses. While the city offers essential services and a moderate cost of living, it may lack some amenities found in larger urban centers. If you enjoy a quieter lifestyle with access to nearby larger cities for occasional trips, Elkhart can be a good fit.

How does the cost of living in Elkhart compare to the national average? Cost of Living 1 answer

Elkhart’s cost of living index is 91, which means it’s about 9% lower than the national average. Everyday expenses like groceries, utilities, and transportation are typically less expensive, while housing costs are moderate. This can make the average salary of $42,361 stretch further, especially if you’re on a tight budget. For a detailed breakdown, check local cost calculators or the city’s official economic reports...

What types of jobs are most common in Elkhart? Jobs & Economy 1 answer

Elkhart has a strong manufacturing base, especially in automotive parts and related industries. There are also growing sectors in logistics, healthcare services, and education. Many residents work in nearby larger cities, so commuting is common. Check local job boards and the city’s employment office for current openings and industry trends.

How are the public schools in Elkhart rated? Schools & Education 1 answer

Elkhart’s public schools generally receive moderate ratings, with some schools performing above average on state assessments. The district offers a range of programs, including special education and advanced placement courses. For specific school performance data, visit the district’s official website or consult state education statistics.

What healthcare facilities are in Elkhart? Healthcare 1 answer

Elkhart hosts several healthcare centers that provide general medical services, emergency care, and specialty clinics. The city’s health department oversees public health initiatives and provides resources for preventive care. For detailed information on specific services, consult the city’s health department website or local medical directories.

Some answers here were drafted as a starting point and may be out of date. Live in Elkhart? Add your own.

Frequently Asked Questions

Urblytica benchmarks its Cost of Living Index against a United States national average baseline of 100. A score of 115 means a city is approximately 15% more expensive than the national average, while a score of 85 indicates it is 15% more affordable. This composite calculation is weighted across six primary expenditure categories: housing, utilities, grocery items, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods.

Urblytica aggregates housing data from multiple authoritative sources, including Multiple Listing Service (MLS) feeds, municipal property tax registries, the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (ACS), and verified historical deed transactions. This multi-tier aggregation ensures precision in tracking median home values and rental rates.

A municipality must meet minimum data-density thresholds—including consistent reporting population samples from the U.S. Census and active residential or commercial real estate transaction feeds—to ensure statistical significance before a complete scoring profile is published.

When primary agencies (such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics or U.S. Census Bureau) issue historical data revisions or benchmark corrections, Urblytica's data pipeline automatically re-indexes affected historical archives to maintain longitudinal trend accuracy.

U.S. affordability calculations incorporate federal income tax brackets, state-specific income tax rates, and local municipal tax variations to evaluate the true net tax drag on median household earnings across different states and cities.

Local county and municipal property tax millage rates are factored directly into the housing component of the cost-of-living index to reflect recurring annual tax burdens for homeowners.

The platform aggregates state sales taxes alongside county and city surtaxes to measure consumer basket purchasing power parity accurately across different retail jurisdictions.

Utility calculations apply regional seasonal consumption weightings, incorporating high summer air conditioning loads in southern states and heavy winter heating demands in northern states.

The index tracks average out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, routine outpatient visit costs, and regional health insurance premium benchmarks published by federal health agencies.

Educational metrics aggregate state standardized testing benchmarks, student-to-teacher ratios, high school graduation rates, and per-pupil expenditure data published by state departments of education.

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