South Bend Area, IN 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities
Located in the heart of northern Indiana, the South Bend area offers a unique blend of Midwestern charm and big city amenities. One of the region's significant draws is its proximity to Lake Michigan, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and enjoying the beach.
The area is also home to numerous parks, trails, and natural areas, including the Indiana Dunes National Park, which features over 15,000 acres of dunes, wetlands, and forests. South Bend is the home of the University of Notre Dame and the historic Fighting Irish football team.
The area offers a welcoming community, a high quality of life, and an abundance of activities for active adults looking for 55+ communities in the South Bend area.
Here are three local websites that provide helpful information for those considering a move or visit to the area:
South Bend Area Affordability and Cost of Living
The South Bend area is an affordable place to live, with a lower cost of living than many other cities in the United States. Housing costs in the region are lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for retirees looking to downsize or buy a home, median home prices in the area range between $192,700 and $215,500.
Groceries, healthcare, and utility costs are a bit lower than average and transportations costs are significantly lower than the U.S. average. The area has a robust public transportation system, including buses and trains, that offer affordable options for getting around. The cost of entertainment and recreation varies depending on individual preferences, but the area offers plenty of free or low-cost options, such as hiking in local parks, visiting museums, and attending community events.
Indiana has a flat rate income tax of 3.23 percent and while Social Security is exempt other forms of retirement income are fully taxable. Individual counties may charge additional income tax. Indiana sales and property taxes are comparable to the rest of the nation.
South Bend Area Climate and Geography
Located in a humid continental climate, the area has four distinct seasons. During summer, the temperatures usually reach the mid-80s (Fahrenheit) with occasional thunderstorms. It is cold and snowy during the winter, with average low temperatures in the teens and occasional temperatures below zero. The spring season is usually rainy and the occasional bouts of heavy rain can cause localized flooding in the area.
Northern Indiana features rolling hills, rivers, lakes, forests, parks, and nature preserves. The area has ample opportunities for outdoor recreation such as hiking, fishing, and camping. The region is also home to the St. Joseph River, a popular spot for canoeing and kayaking. South Bend's proximity to Lake Michigan offers access to beaches, boating, and other water activities.
Recreation, Shopping, and Entertainment in the South Bend Area
The South Bend area offers a wide variety of recreational activities, cultural events, shopping, and entertainment options. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the region has several parks and trails for hiking, biking, and boating. The area is also home to numerous museums, historical sites, and performing arts venues, making it a great destination for those interested in arts and culture. Additionally, the area has plenty of shopping and dining options, as well as several festivals and fairs throughout the year.
Golf and Racquet Sports
- Warren Golf Course at Notre Dame
- Blackthorn Golf Club
- Juday Creek Golf Course
- St. Joseph County Parks Tennis Center
Hiking, Biking, and Boating
- St. Patrick's County Park
- Rum Village Nature Center
- Pumpkinvine Nature Trail
- East Bank Trail
Museums and Historical Sites
- Studebaker National Museum
- The History Museum
- The RV/MH Hall of Fame
- South Bend Chocolate Company Factory Tour
Performing Arts
- Morris Performing Arts Center
- South Bend Civic Theatre
- The Lerner Theatre
- DeBartolo Performing Arts Center at Notre Dame
Shopping
- University Park Mall
- Granger Farmers Market
- Mishawaka Farmers Market
- South Bend Farmers Market
Parks and Gardens
- Potawatomi Zoo
- Wellfield Botanic Gardens
- Merrifield Park
- Pinhook Park
Festivals and Fairs
- Elkhart Jazz Festival
- Notre Dame Shakespeare Festival
- St. Joseph County 4-H Fair
- Mishawaka Summerfest
South Bend Area Health and Wellness
There are many opportunities for maintaining good health and wellness for residents of 55+ communities in the South Bend Area. Nearby medical centers such as Memorial Hospital of South Bend and Elkhart General Hospital, ensure that residents have access to top-quality medical care.
There are many local options for keeping fit, including fitness centers, yoga studios, and walking trails. The Mishawaka Riverwalk is a popular destination for those looking to get some exercise while enjoying the beautiful scenery of the St. Joseph River. The area also has a number of farmers markets and community-supported agriculture programs that offer fresh, locally-grown produce, supporting healthy eating habits.
Recommended Itinerary for Visiting South Bend Area 55+ Communities
Day One
Morning:
- Enjoy a relaxing breakfast and coffee at Biggby Coffee in Granger.
- Head to the Potawatomi Zoo in South Bend to see a variety of animals from all over the world.
- Visit the University of Notre Dame, take a guided campus tour, and explore the beautiful campus and its landmarks, such as the Golden Dome, Basilica of the Sacred Heart, and Notre Dame Stadium.
Afternoon:
- Stop for lunch at Evil Czech Brewery in Mishawaka and try some of their delicious brews along with their unique menu items.
- Spend the afternoon at the Wellfield Botanic Gardens in South Bend, which spans 36 acres and features a variety of gardens, ponds and wetlands.
- Take a scenic drive along the St. Joseph River and enjoy the stunning views of the water and surrounding nature.
Evening:
- Head to dinner at Cafe Navarre in downtown South Bend for a delicious meal in a sophisticated atmosphere.
- Catch a show at The Morris Performing Arts Center, which hosts a variety of concerts, plays, and other performances throughout the year.
Day Two
Morning:
- Start the day with a hearty breakfast at The Early Bird Eatery in South Bend.
- Meet with your local 55places expert retirement community partner agent to discuss retirement communities in the area and tour some potential options.
Afternoon:
- Grab a quick lunch at Between the Buns near Mishawaka.
- Head to the South Bend Chocolate Company for a tour and tasting of their famous chocolates.
- Take a relaxing walk through the Mishawaka Riverwalk, which has a beautiful view of the St. Joseph River and a variety of shops and restaurants.
Evening:
- End your trip with dinner at LaSalle Grill in downtown South Bend, which offers fine dining in an elegant atmosphere.
Getting to the South Bend Area
The South Bend area is easily accessible by several modes of transportation, making it a convenient location for visitors from near and far.
If you are driving, there are several major highways that lead to the area, including:
- I-80/I-90 (Indiana Toll Road): runs east-west through northern Indiana, connecting the region to major cities like Chicago, Detroit, and Cleveland.
- US-31: runs north-south through the region, connecting to Indianapolis and South Bend.
The closest major airport to the South Bend area is South Bend International Airport (SBN), located in South Bend, Indiana. Several major airlines serve SBN, including Delta, American Airlines, and United Airlines. The airport primarily serves flights to and from hubs in Chicago, Detroit, and Atlanta.
South Bend is served by the South Shore Line, a commuter rail service that connects the region to downtown Chicago. In addition, several bus companies operate in the area, including Greyhound and Coach USA.
Communities Near South Bend Area
- South Bend Area (2)
Stonebridge Villas at Edison Lakes
- High $200ks - Low $400ks
- 96 Homes
- No Age Restrictions
- Resale Homes Only
- 2008 - 2018
-
5 Rating (1 Review)
Cobblestone Square Villas
- High $400ks - High $500ks
- 22 Homes
- No Age Restrictions
- New Homes Only
- 2017 - Present
- Be the first to leave a review!