$225,642Average Value$113Average Price per Sq Ft71Homes 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
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Mishawaka, IN sell after 29 days on the market compared to the national average of 52 days. The median sale price for homes in Mishawaka, IN over the last 12 months is $195,900, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
****OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 12-2p***** Welcome to your serene escape in the highly sought-after Penn-Harris-Madison School District! This spacious 4-bedroom, 1-bath tri-level home sits on 1.4 acres of open land, offering comfort, flexibility, and room to grow. Enjoy multiple living areas across three levels—ideal for anyone craving extra space. A large new bay window fills the living room
Open House Sunday Sept. 21, 2025 from 2-4pm This beautifully designed home offers the perfect blend of comfort and versatility with two fully equipped living spaces, each featuring its own kitchen. Ideal for multigenerational living, rental income potential, or hosting extended guests, the layout provides privacy and convenience for all. With a lot of new updates within the last couple of years
***Open House this Saturday, September 20th, from 12:00 TO 2:00*** Don’t miss this spectacular Mishawaka home, full of fantastic updates and ideally located near Mishawaka High School, Merrifield Park, Eberhart Golf Course, and the beautiful Riverwalk! Enjoy newer vinyl siding and windows, a newer roof, and a beautifully updated kitchen featuring white cabinetry, a tiled backsplash, a stainless
Looking for a move-in ready home,This charming 2-bedroom home has been beautifully updated from top to bottom—perfect for anyone looking to downsize, invest, or simply enjoy modern living without the work. Step inside to discover a fresh interior featuring new flooring, a beautifully remodeled kitchen with updated cabinets, a walk-in shower. Need storage or space for projects? You’ll love the
****OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 12-2p***** Welcome to your serene escape in the highly sought-after Penn-Harris-Madison School District! This spacious 4-bedroom, 1-bath tri-level home sits on 1.4 acres of open land, offering comfort, flexibility, and room to grow. Enjoy multiple living areas across three levels—ideal for anyone craving extra space. A large new bay window fills the living room
OPEN HOUSE 8/17/2025 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
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.
Tranquility and satisfaction meet at Indian Lakes Apartments. Our community was designed to accommodate a variety of lifestyles, which is why we offer a host of impressive amenities, services, and a fantastic location thats sure to help you feel right at home. Your four-legged friend will love sharing this joy, too we are a?pet-friendly community. As you turn into our community, youll feel
Nestled on over 32 acres of manicured green space with serene ponds and beautiful landscaping, our apartments in Mishawaka make you feel at home from the moment you step foot in our community. Autumn Lakes Apartments and Townhomes offer one-, two-, and three-bedroom floor plans, excellent services, and ample amenities. Dont forget that were a pet-friendly community! A true retreat for
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