What to know when moving to Peru, IN
Peru at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 29% of residents are renters and the median household income is $56,722.
- The Major Draw:
- Affordable living with a median gross rent of $822.
- The Reality Check:
- 17.7% of the population lives below the poverty line.
- Commute:
- Only 0.3% of residents use public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Prepare for 116 rainy days a year; investing in rain gear is wise.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Peru has a population of about 23,129 residents, with a median household income of $56,722. The education level is relatively low, with only 15.9% of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher. With 29% of the population renting, housing is more accessible than in many urban areas.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for a highly educated community, as the degree attainment is below the national average.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $822, making it relatively affordable compared to many other areas.
- Median owner-occupied home value stands at $111,200, offering a reasonable entry point for homebuyers.
- Poverty rate is 17.7%, indicating some economic challenges within the community.
- Only 0.3% of residents commute using public transit, suggesting a car-dependent lifestyle.
Source: Census ACS 5-Year Data Profile.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Indiana has seen a decline in crime rates over recent years, which is reflected in state-level statistics.
- Violent crime rate is 269.3 per 100,000 residents, which is 17.2% lower than the national average.
- Property crime rate is 1,121.6 per 100,000 residents, 27.5% lower than the national average.
- Notable trend: The homicide rate has decreased by 48.1% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Indiana).
Weather & Getting Outside
Miami County experiences around 26.4 inches of precipitation annually, with 116 rainy days each year. Snowfall averages about 2.9 inches, occurring over an estimated 20 days.
- Grissom Air Museum - 4.8 stars (864 reviews)
- Seven Pillars Nature Preserve - ACRES Land Trust - 4.8 stars (350 reviews)
- Maconaquah Park - 4.4 stars (333 reviews)
- River Walkway Park - 4.7 stars (123 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Miami County, the unemployment rate is 3.2% as of December 2025, which is relatively low. The labor force consists of 15,811 individuals, with 15,303 currently employed.
- Unemployment rate: 3.2% (December 2025)
- Total employment: 15,303
- Labor force: 15,811
Source: BLS Local Area Unemployment Statistics.