Affordable & Income-Based Housing in South Bend

Affordability in South Bend, IN

According to Census ACS 5-Year data (2024), the median monthly rent in South Bend is $1,033, against a median household income of $55,786 per year. About 40% of residents rent their homes, reflecting a sizeable renter community with real demand for affordable options.

Lease Lantern tracks 15 HUD-assisted or income-based properties totaling 1,449 units in South Bend, giving renters a range of subsidized choices across the city.

Safety

According to FBI Crime Data Explorer, the South Bend Police Department reported a violent crime rate of 867 per 100,000 residents in 2024. Note that crime rates are not directly comparable across cities due to differences in reporting practices and jurisdiction definitions.

Getting Around South Bend

According to Walk Score, the area around assisted properties in South Bend scores 72 (Very Walkable) and a Bike Score of 84, indicating strong options for getting around on foot or by bike. No Transit Score was available in the data.

Schools

South Bend is served by 39 public schools across 9 districts, including 23 elementary, 5 middle, and 11 high schools, according to NCES Common Core of Data. Ratings vary by school and district, so renters should check the assigned schools for a specific address.

Housing Costs in South Bend, IN

The median household income in South Bend is $55,786 per year, according to Census ACS 5-Year data. The median gross rent citywide is $1,033 per month, also per Census ACS 5-Year estimates.

For renters who qualify, the 1,449 income-restricted units across South Bend's HUD-assisted and LIHTC properties can offer significant savings compared to market-rate rents. Rents in these programs are tied to area income limits rather than market conditions.

• Median household income: $55,786/year (Census ACS 5-Year)
• Median market rent: $1,033/month (Census ACS 5-Year)
• Renter households: 40% of occupied units in South Bend (Census ACS 5-Year)

Environmental & Flood Risk

All 15 assisted properties in South Bend were mapped for flood zone exposure, and none fall within a high-risk flood zone. Flood risk does not appear to be a notable concern for this portfolio of affordable housing.