Living in Mishawaka, Indiana: A Guide for Homebuyers and Sellers
Mishawaka sits right next to South Bend, but it has its own downtown, its own school district and a reputation as one of Michiana's most convenient places to live. Here's what buyers and sellers should know about the "Princess City."
Mishawaka at a glance
Population: about 51,000 at the 2020 census, up from about 48,000 in 2010.
Location: on the St. Joseph River in St. Joseph County, directly east of South Bend. The two cities form one metro area, and many residents live in one and work in the other.
Getting around: the Indiana Toll Road and the US-20/31 bypass are close, and South Bend International Airport is a short drive west.
Shopping, parks and the river
The Grape Road and Main Street corridor north of the river is the region's main shopping area, with University Park Mall, big-box stores and many of the area's chain restaurants. Closer to the center of town, the Mishawaka Riverwalk runs through Beutter Park along the St. Joseph River, and Shiojiri Garden in Merrifield Park is a local favorite. The city maintains about 29 parks.
Schools: check the district, not just the city
This is the most important thing to know when buying in Mishawaka. A Mishawaka address can fall in one of three school districts:
School City of Mishawaka, which serves the central city and Mishawaka High School.
Penn-Harris-Madison, which serves much of the north and east side and Penn High School.
South Bend Community School Corporation, which serves some areas near the South Bend line.
If schools matter to you, confirm the assigned schools for the exact address before you make an offer. District lines also affect resale value.
The homes
Mishawaka has a wide range of housing: older homes near downtown and the river, mid-century neighborhoods across the city, newer subdivisions on the north and east sides, and condos and apartments near the Grape Road corridor. That variety means a buyer can find a starter home, a move-up home or a low-maintenance condo without leaving town.
What homes cost
Prices vary a lot by school district and neighborhood. Homes in Penn-Harris-Madison areas and newer subdivisions generally sell for more than older homes near the city center. Ask me for recent sales in the area you're considering.
Work and everyday life
Mishawaka has its own employers, including AM General, which has built military vehicles here since the Hummer era, plus a major medical campus and the retail corridor. Notre Dame, downtown South Bend and Elkhart are all reachable in a short drive.
Who Mishawaka fits
Mishawaka suits families focused on a specific school district, buyers who want to be close to shopping and the highway, and people who work in South Bend, Mishawaka or Elkhart and want to split the difference.
Buying or selling in Mishawaka?
I'm Jennifer Lillie, a REALTOR® with Cressy & Everett Real Estate, and I help buyers and sellers across Mishawaka, South Bend and Granger. I'll help you compare neighborhoods and school districts and price your home against the right comparables. Contact me or call 574-286-9667. Also see my guide to St. Joseph County property taxes.