A+
13%
Overall NAT. AVG.
5%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
33%
Housing NAT. AVG.
Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.
The cost of living index is based on a national average of 100. For example, if the cost of living score is 90, then the estimated cost of living is 10% lower than the national average. If the score is 110, then the estimated cost of living is 10% higher than average. The overall index is calculated using weighted estimates across major everyday expense categories, including housing (30%), groceries (16%), transportation (12%), healthcare (10%), utilities (8%), lifestyle and entertainment (8%), household expenses (8%), and education and childcare (8%). All values are AI-assisted city-level estimates designed for directional comparisons.
Index Mishawaka Indiana National
Cost of living8789100
Groceries9697100
Health care9997100
Housing6772100
Transportation9496100
Utilities9696100
Lifestyle & Entertainment10095100
Household Items9798100
Education & Childcare9394100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in Mishawaka, IN

Getting a feel for the cost of living in Mishawaka is essential for anyone planning to relocate, as it empowers them to make informed financial decisions, secure a comfortable lifestyle and maintain financial stability in their new environment. The cost of living in Mishawaka is 87, which is 13% lower than the national average. Relocating individuals may need to adjust their savings and investment strategies based on the cost of living in the new location. It influences decisions about retirement planning, investments and financial goals.

What Do Locals Say About the Cost of Living in Mishawaka?

Locals have the inside scoop on their city. So, we polled 6 residents in Mishawaka to learn how they view the cost of living. We asked how they felt about the cost of living in their area, and if they thought that prices were increasing, decreasing or staying the same. The verdict? 83% find it reasonable with decreasing prices, but 17% think it's quite pricey, with prices that continue to rise.

Is Mishawaka Affordable?

Is Mishawaka affordable? This is a pivotal question, especially when mulling over a move, as affordability carries substantial weight in your decision-making process. Factors such as the cost of living index (discussed earlier), housing expenses and income levels all contribute to a location's affordability. For instance, in Mishawaka, the median home price is 41% lower than the national average and monthly rent prices are 13.9% lower than the typical rates. Additionally, the median income levels play a role in affordability, with Mishawaka boasting a median household income of $67,363, 17.2% lower than the national average.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in Mishawaka?

Healthcare: Healthcare expenditures and insurance premium rates can vary significantly, contingent upon the particular city or state. Factors such as the accessibility of healthcare facilities, out-of-pocket expenses for doctor's appointments, dental care charges, prescription medication costs, and expenses related to specialized medical care can all have an impact on the overall cost of living. In Mishawaka, healthcare costs are 1% lower than the national average.

Urbanization: Larger, urban hubs brimming with ample amenities and robust employment opportunities often showcase a heightened cost of living. This surge is primarily attributed to the amplified demand for services and increased residential migration, culminating in elevated home prices and elevated rental rates. Conversely, less densely populated rural locales or regions characterized by reduced demand tend to offer a more limited array of amenities and undergo slower job market growth, ultimately yielding a more affordable cost of living.

Housing: Elevated demand for housing within coveted locales has the propensity to escalate both property values and rental rates, thereby serving as a primary catalyst for an augmented cost of living. Conversely, areas witnessing diminished housing demand, particularly within less desirable environs, often experience an inversely proportional effect, leading to price reductions and subsequently contributing to a more modest cost of living. In Mishawaka, the housing index is 32.9% lower than the national average.

Where is the Data From?

The cost of living estimates displayed for Mishawaka are modeled using a U.S. average baseline of 100, helping provide a useful comparison of local living expenses. Housing calculations include U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all other values are AI-assisted estimates based on regional cost patterns, climate, transportation, and everyday spending expectations. These values are intended for directional comparisons across cities.

Cost Of Living Quick Facts

  • The cost of living in Mishawaka is 2% lower than the Indiana average
  • The cost of living in Mishawaka is 13% lower than the national average
  • Mishawaka housing is 33% lower than the national average
  • Indiana general sales tax is 37% higher than the national average
  • Indiana state income tax is 21% higher than the national average

Most Affordable Places to Live in and Around Mishawaka

See all the best places to live around Mishawaka

Compare Mishawaka, IN Cost of Living

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      Median Income & Debt-To-Income Ratio

      Median Income Per Year Per Month Max Budget (28% DTI) Max Budget (36% DTI)
      Owners$89,187$7,432$2,081$2,676
      Renters$49,567$4,131$1,156$1,487
      To approximate the cost of living and the housing affordability in Mishawaka, IN, we can look at the percentage of income that is available to be spent on monthly housing, otherwise known as the debt-to-income ratio (DTI). To stay on the safe side, a consumer should not spend more than 28% of his or her gross income on housing-related expenses and costs and not more than 36% of income on all expenses and debts. Homeowners in Mishawaka have a median income of $89,187. Therefore, the amount that a consumer should spend on housing costs should be no more than $2,081 per month to avoid calamity and poverty. The renters in the city have an income of about $49,567, which would make their monthly maximum allowable rental costs $1,156.

      Indiana Sales Tax

      State General Sales Tax With Max Surtax
      Indiana 7% 7%

      Indiana Income Tax

      State Income Tax (Low) Income Tax (High)
      Indiana 3.15% 3.15%

      Nearby cities with low cost of living

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      La Paz, IN6548317.3%
      Niles, MI11,5218416.2%
      Lakeville, IN7928416.3%
      South Bend, IN104,7968415.8%
      Elkhart, IN53,8088613.8%
      Mishawaka, IN51,2308712.5%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      North Bethesda, MD51,23816262.1%
      Lakewood, OH51,262946.2%
      Plainfield, NJ51,29512221.5%
      Enid, OK51,3018811.9%
      Poway, CA51,31117978.8%
      Mishawaka, IN51,2308712.5%
      Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.