What to know when moving to Osceola, IN
Osceola at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 14.1% of residents rent and the median household income is $83,520.
- The Major Draw:
- Access to 11 postsecondary institutions within the surrounding area.
- The Reality Check:
- With a poverty rate of 10.8%, some residents may face financial challenges.
- Commute:
- Just 0.2% of the population uses public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for a median rent of $1,137 per month.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Osceola has a population of about 14,499, with a relatively low renter percentage of 14.1%. The community is moderately educated, with 26.1% holding a bachelor's degree or higher. However, only 0.2% of residents commute via public transit, which indicates a strong reliance on personal vehicles for transportation. The area also faces a 10.8% poverty rate, highlighting some economic challenges.
Probably not your spot if you prefer a high rental rate or stronger public transportation options.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median rent is $1,137 and the median home value is $208,200, making it reasonably priced compared to some areas.
- Approximately 26.1% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, contributing to community character.
- The poverty rate stands at 10.8%, indicating some financial challenges among residents.
- With 14.1% of the population renting, the housing market is primarily owner-occupied.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Indiana's crime rates show a mix of trends. The state experiences a property crime rate of 1,121.6 per 100,000, which is 27.5% lower than the national average. Violent crime in Indiana stands at 269.3 per 100,000, also below the national rate by 17.2%. Notably, the homicide rate has decreased by 48.1% since 2022.
- Violent crime: 269.3 per 100k vs. national 325.3, down 27.2% since 2022.
- Property crime: 1,121.6 per 100k vs. national 1,546.9, down 34.7% since 2022.
- Notable trend: Homicide rate down 48.1% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Indiana).
Schools & Higher Ed
Osceola residents have access to 11 postsecondary institutions in the surrounding area, including notable schools like the University of Notre Dame and Indiana University-South Bend.
- Postsecondary institutions: 11
- Nearby institutions include: University of Notre Dame, Bethel University, and Holy Cross College.
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
St. Joseph County sees an annual precipitation of 44.5 inches, with about 133 rainy days each year. Spring and summer typically receive 10.5 and 19 inches of rain, respectively. The area is great for outdoor activities with parks like Central Park and Howard Park, both receiving high ratings from visitors.
- Parks & outdoor spots worth checking out:
- Central Park - 4.6 stars (2,388 reviews)
- Howard Park - 4.8 stars (1,699 reviews)
- Studebaker National Museum - 4.8 stars (1,868 reviews)
- Ox Bow Park - 4.7 stars (1,434 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In St. Joseph County, the unemployment rate is at 3.0%, with a labor force of 130,867 individuals. Around 126,950 are currently employed, indicating a stable job market.
- Unemployment rate: 3.0% (December 2025)
- Employed: 126,950
- Labor force: 130,867
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.