$225,858Average Value$113Average Price per Sq Ft74Homes For Sale
Riverside living just east of South Bend, Indiana
Sharing a border with South Bend, Mishawaka has many of the same perks, like connectivity to the Michiana region and proximity to significant employers. However, the city boasts lower crime, a slower way of life and a newer selection of homes than its neighbor. Bridges pass over the St. Joseph River, connecting the two halves of Mishawaka – where apartment buildings and shopping centers stand in the north and housing developments expand in the south. According to Matt Lentsch, executive director of development and governmental affairs for the City of Mishawaka and Mishawaka Utilities, the city is only trending upwards. "We do things right, and we've done things right all along," he says. "We don't just look at the next five or 10 years, but we look 20-plus years in the future when we start projects." Despite increased job opportunities, safety, amenities and city improvements, Mishawaka's cost of living remains low. "When we spend money, we do so frugally," Lentsch says. "If we're going to be increasing taxes or spending money on anything, it's going to improve the quality of life for our residents."
The Mishawaka police station has recently moved into the new City Hall building in downtown.
Locals head for the Mishawaka River Walk to get some fresh air and take in the river views.
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Notre Dame and AM General Motors are main employers
Like South Bend to the west, Mishawaka got its start in agriculture. Farming and food production still play a small role in today's economy, driven by a mix of healthcare and education, with Notre Dame, Indiana University South Bend and Saint Joseph Mishawaka Medical Center as leading employers. Many manufacturing companies are based around Mishawaka, including AM General. The heavy automotive manufacturer produced the first model of the Hummer. A growing assortment of modern industry jobs differentiates Mishawaka from South Bend. "A lot of young professionals are moving to the area because it's so close to Notre Dame," says Dan Thompson, Realtor at Lochmondy Realty. "They graduate from there and move here instead of South Bend because there are more diverse job opportunities." Technology, utility, office and sales positions continue to draw young professionals eastward.
Frost Engineering is a large employer in downtown Mishawaka.
The university of Notre Dame is right next door to the residents of Harter Heights.
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Homes well below the national median
Small houses like Cape Cods, bungalows and workers' cottages from the early 1900s are the least expensive in the area, usually selling between $75,000 and $200,000. As the city expanded, styles diversified and ranch-style homes and bi-levels with wider yards became prominent. Up-kept American Foursquare and Colonial Revivals are at the middle of the price range in Mishawaka, between $200,000 and $400,000. Neighborhoods on the outer stretches of the city take advantage of undeveloped space, with new builds sprawling on rolling hills. The large houses start at around $450,000 and top out at $1 million. "House values have doubled or tripled in price, but we also care about those who can't afford a $300,000 home," Lentsch says. "We work closely with Habitat for Humanity to build and repair affordable housing." Despite being up 3% from the previous year, the median home price in Mishawaka is $195,000 – about $200,000 less than the median in the United States, which is around $400,000.
The edges of Mishawaka is seeing some new home developments.
The area surrounding downtown Mishawaka has some of the oldest homes in the area.
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Year-round outdoor fun at Buetter Park
The St. Joseph River winds across the center of the city. Outdoor enthusiasts can take full advantage of this natural resource through the parks, which provide access for fishing and kayaking. There are 28 parks in the city, including Buetter Riverfront Park and the recently revamped Ironworks Plaza. Between its ice-skating rink and summertime concerts, the Plaza at Buetter Park is a scenic gathering spot for all seasons.
Winters in Mishawaka are cold and snowy, and lake-effect snowstorms bring additional cold weather and inches of snow. Residents enjoy ice skating and sledding at multiple locations. Residents can also stay active in the winter months inside The Mishawaka Fieldhouse. "It cost millions of dollars and just opened a few months ago," Thompson says. "It's one of the biggest indoor recreation facilities in the Midwest."
The river floods on occasion, especially after melting snow brings runoff. Homes nearest the river's bends are the most prone to water damage from flooding.
Ironworks Plaza is part of Robert C. Beutter Park on the St. Joseph River in Mishawaka, IN.
Robert C. Beutter Park on the St. Joseph River in Mishawaka, IN.
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Penn-Harris-Madison School Corporation is great for athletes
School City of Mishawaka has a C-plus grade on Niche and serves most of the city. The district has seven elementary, one middle and one high school. Oscar-nominated actor Adam Driver graduated from Mishawaka High School. Some students in the city attend B-minus-rated South Bend Community School Corporation or Penn-Harris-Madison School Corporation, rated an A. Penn-Harris-Madison School Corporation is the top-rated school district in South Bend and the fourth-best district for athletes in the state. Football is a large part of the athletic departments across all three districts serving Mishawaka, and three high schools have claimed state championships.
Fred J. Hums Elementary School in Mishawaka, IN.
Mishawaka High School in Mishawaka, IN.
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Familiar shopping along Grape Road
One of the largest shopping strips of South Bend and St. Joseph County is in the city, bringing jobs and tax breaks. The shopping area along Grape Road and North Main Street has big box, home improvement and grocery stores, along with national chain restaurants and other shops. University Park Mall is on Grape Road with 120 stores. In addition to major shopping, "There's more dining options in Mishawaka than in South Bend," Thompson says. The city has a diverse collection of restaurants serving Czech, Italian, Latin American and Southern cuisines.
Mishawaka Market takes place on Sundays from June through September. Handmade goods, local produce and baked goods, including some from the nearby Amish communities, are for sale. The weekly event also has a designated kids' zone, performances from local musicians and animal adoptions.
The University Park Mall in Mishawaka is the largest indoor mall in northern Indiana.
Grape Rd in Mishawaka is where residents head for all the major retail and chain restaurants.
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In the center of St. Joseph County and Michiana
Interstate 90 intersects the northernmost part of the city. U.S. Route 20 is along the southern border, and Indiana State Road 331 is to the east. "One of our best features is that we're centrally located in the county," Lentsch says. Chicago is 105 miles west, about two hours away by car, traffic depending. South Bend's TRANSPO bus system runs through Mishawaka and the surrounding suburbs. South Bend International Airport is less than 10 miles west. The airport has flights to a limited number of destinations, most of which are large hubs like Charlotte Douglas International and Chicago O'Hare International.
Mishawaka: "More police officers per square mile"
According to information provided by the FBI, both violent and property crimes in Mishawaka happen at a similar rate to the national average. However, violent crimes were notably lower compared to neighboring South Bend. "One of the big things that we don't just talk about but act on is public safety," Lentsch says. "We have more police officers per square mile than any other city in northwestern Indiana. Our police officers are also the highest paid in the state."
Written By
Heather Haggerty
Photography Contributed By
Tyler Bolduc
Video By
Jason Jacot
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Abram Christianson,
an experienced agent in this area.
On average, homes in Mishawaka, IN sell after 30 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Mishawaka, IN over the last 12 months is $194,950, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
***Open House Sunday, November 2 from 2PM-4PM*** This home is a stunning 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom ranch that has been remodeled from wall to wall and is ready for its next lucky owners! This 1,212 sq ft home has been fully updated throughout. The entire floor plan had been reconfigured for maximum living space. Step inside and be wowed by the fresh, open layout featuring new luxury vinyl plank
Whether you're looking for a new home or an investment, this bungalow is a great choice. It's very clean and ready for you to move in. The electric range/oven is new, and there's a washer and gas dryer on the main floor. Ceiling fans and a window A/C unit help keep the home cool in the summer. The roof was replaced in 2024. The yard is fenced with chain link. It's also close to parks, shopping,
Completely renovated and move-in ready! This 3-bedroom, 2-full bathroom home has been beautifully redone from top to bottom—including a brand-new roof—and is freshly painted inside and out. The main level features vinyl plank flooring throughout, an open-concept living area, a bedroom, and a full bathroom. Upstairs, you’ll find two additional carpeted bedrooms and another full bath, offering
Don't miss this prime investment opportunity in a desirable Mishawaka location! This 2-bedroom, 1-bath home features a partially finished basement, offering additional space and potential for added value. Includes a 1-car detached garage and sits on a well-maintained lot. With strong rental demand in the area, this property is ideal for investors or buyers looking to add value with minor updates
OPEN HOUSE 10/12/2025 12-2 PM THIS ELEGANT HOME HAS BEEN RECENTLY UPDATED AND RESTORED TO ITS FORMER GLORY. THE MAIN FLOOR features a KITCHEN with granite counters, refinished cupboards, tile backsplash, newer appliances with a built-in microwave, THE LIVING ROOM has a beamed ceiling and along with the DINING ROOM and PARLOR has polished oak hardwood flooring. The main floor also has a LAUNDRY
BACK ON THE MARKET AT NO FAULT OF THE SELLER! THIS 3 BEDROOM BRICK RANCH IS NESTLED ON A QUIET STREET AND INCLUDES AN ADDITIONAL ADJACENT 1.5 ACRE LOT IN THE BACK FOR ALL TYPES OF ACTIVITIES. The kitchen has a gas stove with hood, oven, refrigerator and a dining area. The living room and bedrooms with ceiling fans, have hardwood floors throughout. The basement is partially finished, and the
The Mill at Ironworks Plaza offers luxury living in downtown Mishawaka. We offer studio, one and two bedroom apartment homes with several different floor plans to choose from.
Newer home in perfect central Mishawaka, Indiana location! Better than apartment living -- no shared walls. Take a look at this beautiful island kitchen with barn sink, tile backsplash, stove, dishwasher and refrigerator. Home is move-in ready with custom decks and air conditioning/heat system. Master bedroom features walk-in closet and attached master bath. Only 25 minutes to New Carlisle.
Welcome to River 109 Apartments, where comfort and convenience come together in the heart of Mishawaka. Our fully renovated apartments feature modern finishes, central heating and cooling, and in-unit washers and dryers. Residents enjoy great community amenities including an outdoor pool and fitness center. Located just steps from Hacienda, Ironworks Plaza, and Central Park, you'll have easy
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