Home Value
$244,000
13% lower than US avg
Violent Crime
381/100K
0% lower than US avg
Bachelor's+
45.0%
34% higher than US avg
Obesity Rate
38.1%
19% higher than US avg
Unemployment
0.0%
100% lower than US avg
Poverty Rate
0.0%
100% lower than US avg
How Oswego Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)
People
Population284
Median Age31.7 yrs
Density604/mi²
Male / Female63% / 37%
Largest GroupWhite 97%
Veterans0.0%
Economy
Per Capita$31,627
Unemployment0.0%
Poverty0.0%
County GDP$7,836M
Housing
Home Value$244,000
Ownership91.5%
Zillow$334,187
Housing Units206
Rent Burden26.1%
Crime
F
Violent381/100K
Property3,171/100K
Health
Obesity38.1%
Smoking14.8%
Depression25.3%
Heart Disease5.6%
Climate
Avg Temp50°F (10°C)
AQI41 (Good)
Rain39.8 in/yr
Sunny Days275/yr
Elevation842 ft (257 m)
Education
A+
Bachelor's+45.0%
High School+100.0%
Graduate+0.0%
School Score6.04
Community
2024 VoteR 75% / D 23%
Broadband100.0%
EV Stations1
Libraries6
Is Oswego a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, Oswego receives an overall livability score of 2.8 out of 5.0, earning a grade of C+. Key strengths include low unemployment, a highly educated population, affordable housing, abundant sunshine. Oswego has some notable strengths but also faces challenges that prospective residents should consider.
Economy & Jobs
The job market is very strong with unemployment at just 0.0%. Only 0.0% of residents live below the poverty line, well below the national rate of 12.4%.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in Oswego is $244,000, 13% below the national median / offering relatively affordable homeownership.
Safety & Crime
The violent crime rate of 381 per 100,000 is above the national average of 380 / something for prospective residents to consider. Property crime occurs at a rate of 3,171 per 100,000, 62% above the national average.
Education
Educational attainment is solid, with 45.0% holding a bachelor's degree or higher, near the national average. 100.0% have completed high school. Area schools have an average test score of 6/10.
Climate & Weather
Oswego experiences four distinct seasons with an average temperature of 50°F. Winters average 24°F in January while summers reach 73°F in July. With 275 sunny days per year, residents enjoy well above the national average of sunshine. Annual precipitation totals 39.8 inches, including 47.3 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 41.
Oswego has a population of 284 with a density of 604 people per square mile, spread across 0.5 square miles. The median age is 31.7 years, 19% younger than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 36.6% female and 63.4% male. The city is predominantly White (96.8%). English is the primary language spoken at home by 100% of residents. 0.0% of the population are veterans, below the national rate of 6.0%. 34.8% of residents have a disability (above the 13.0% national average). 100.0% have health insurance coverage.
Population
31.7yrs
Median Age
19% below US avg
Language Spoken at Home
English Only
100.0%
27% above US avg
Spanish
0.0%
100% below US avg
Per capita income is $31,627 (below the $39,052 national figure). The average weekly wage is $1,133, 21% lower than the U.S. average. The unemployment rate is 0.0% (below the 3.6% US average). 0.0% of residents live below the poverty line, lower than the national rate of 12.4%. The area has 2,157 business establishments, including 180 restaurants. The cost of living index is 93.3, below the national baseline of 100 / offering relatively affordable living. 28.2% of workers work from home (above the 15.2% national rate).
Income
| |
| Per Capita Income | $31,627 |
| Avg Weekly Wage | $1,133 |
| IRS Avg AGI | $77,961 |
| Gini Index | 0.413 (0=equal, 1=unequal) |
Employment & Poverty
| Unemployment | 0.0% |
| 100% below US avg |
| Poverty Rate | 0.0% |
| 100% below US avg |
| Establishments (County) | 2,157 |
| County GDP | $7,836M |
Business (County)
| Restaurants | 180 |
| Healthcare | 173 |
| Retail | 284 |
| Manufacturing | 181 |
Tax & Cost of Living
| Property Tax (IRS) | $4,375 |
| 25% above US avg |
| Cost of Living | 93.30 (100=avg) |
| Effective Tax Rate | 1.79% |
Commute & Transportation
| Drive Alone | 71.8% |
| Public Transit | 0.0% |
| Work from Home | 28.2% |
The median home value in Oswego is $244,000, 13% below the national median of $281,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $334,187, higher than the Census estimate. Fair market rent ranges from $882 for a one-bedroom to $1,096 for a two-bedroom apartment. 91.5% of housing units are owner-occupied (above the 65.4% national rate). There are 206 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1999. The average annual property tax is $4,375 (higher than the $3,500 national average). 26.1% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing.
Home Values
| Census Median | $244,000 |
| 13% below US avg |
| Zillow ZHVI | $334,187 |
Real Estate Market (Redfin)
Rental Costs
HUD Fair Market Rent
| Studio | $816 |
| 1 Bedroom | $882 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,096 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,391 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,590 |
Ownership & Property
| Homeownership | 91.5% |
| Owner-Occupied | 91.5% |
| Renter-Occupied | 8.5% |
| Housing Units | 206 |
| Median Year Built | 1999 |
Property Tax
| Avg Tax (IRS) | $4,375 |
| 25% above US avg |
| Effective Rate | 1.79% |
In Oswego, 38.1% of adults are obese, above the national rate of 32.1%. 10.5% have diabetes. Heart disease affects 5.6% of residents. 34.6% have high blood pressure. 14.8% are current smokers. 18.4% report binge drinking. 23.8% are physically inactive. 25.3% report depression (above the 20.0% national average). 17.5% experience frequent mental distress. The primary care physician ratio is 1:2,289. The dentist ratio is 1:3,109. 59.7% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The food environment index is 8.2 out of 10.
Health Metrics: Oswego vs U.S. Average (%)
Chronic Conditions
| Obesity | 38.1% |
| 19% above US avg |
| Diabetes | 10.5% |
| Heart Disease | 5.6% |
| High Blood Pressure | 34.6% |
| Asthma | 10.6% |
| COPD | 6.3% |
| Cancer | 7.4% |
| Stroke | 2.7% |
Behaviors & Mental Health
| Smoking | 14.8% |
| 6% above US avg |
| Binge Drinking | 18.4% |
| Physical Inactivity | 23.8% |
| Depression | 25.3% |
| Mental Distress | 17.5% |
| Physical Distress | 12.2% |
| Short Sleep | 34.8% |
Healthcare Access
| Insurance Rate | 100.0% |
| |
| Primary Care | 1:2,289 |
| Dentists | 1:3,109 |
| Mental Health | 1:525 |
| Checkup Rate | 77.3% |
| Dental Visits | 64.6% |
| Premature Death | 9,156/100K |
Food & Exercise
| Food Environment | 8.2/10 |
| Exercise Access | 59.7% |
| Healthcare Facilities | 173 |
Oswego has a violent crime rate of 381 per 100,000 residents, 0% below the national average of 380. Property crime stands at 3,171 per 100,000, 62% above the U.S. average. The county recorded 9 fatal traffic crashes. Overall, Oswego receives a safety grade of F.
Crime Rates: Oswego vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)
Violent Crime
| Total Violent | 381.4/100K |
| 0% below US avg |
| |
Property Crime
| Total Property | 3,170.9/100K |
| 62% above US avg |
Traffic Safety
| Fatal Crashes (County/yr) | 9 |
| Avg Accident Severity | 0.0 / 4.0 |
Safety Score
| Safety Grade | F |
| Safety Score | 1.0 / 5.0 |
Oswego experiences four distinct seasons with an average annual temperature of 50°F (10°C). Winters average 24°F in January while summers reach 73°F in July. The area gets 275 sunny days per year, well above the U.S. average of 205 / making it one of the sunnier locations in the country. Annual precipitation totals 39.8 inches. The area receives 47.3 inches of snow annually, making winter weather a significant factor for residents. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 41. The city sits at an elevation of 842 feet.
Temperature
24°F Jan (-4°C)
73°F Jul (23°C)
| Annual Average | 50.1°F |
| 7% below US avg |
| January Average | 24°F (-4°C) |
| July Average | 73°F (23°C) |
| Sunny Days | 275 days/yr |
Geography
| Elevation | 842 ft (257 m) |
| Area | 0.5 sq mi (1.2 km²) |
| Population Density | 604/sq mi |
| Coordinates | 41.3224°N, 85.7871°W |
| Timezone | America/Indiana/Indianapolis |
| County | Kosciusko County County |
| Nearest Airport | South Bend International (SBN) 38 miles away |
Precipitation & Snow
Annual Rainfall
39.8"
5% above US avg
Wettest Month (Jun)
4.06"
Air Quality
| AQI Median | 41.0 |
| Rating | Good |
Natural Hazard Risk
| Overall Risk | Relatively Low |
| Risk Score | 66.3 / 100 |
| Social Vulnerability | 44.2 / 100 |
| Community Resilience | 79.1 / 100 |
Hazard Breakdown
| Tornado |
Relatively Moderate |
| Hurricane |
Very Low |
| Earthquake |
Relatively Low |
| Wildfire |
Very Low |
| Flood |
Relatively Low |
| Hail |
Relatively Low |
| Strong Wind |
Relatively High |
| Heat Wave |
Relatively Low |
| Winter Weather |
Relatively Low |
| Lightning |
Relatively Moderate |
| Ice Storm |
Relatively Low |
| Drought |
Relatively Low |
| Cold Wave |
Relatively Moderate |
| Landslide |
Very Low |
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.20 (Dec 2025)
Earthquake History
6 earthquakes (M2.5+) within 150 km since 1990.
Strongest: M4.2. Most recent: M3.3 on Jun 30, 2015.
| May 2, 2015 |
5 km S of Galesburg, Michigan |
M4.2 |
106 km |
| Jun 30, 2015 |
5 km NNE of Burlington, Michigan |
M3.3 |
110 km |
| Jan 26, 2012 |
5 km NE of Topeka, Indiana |
M3.0 |
38 km |
| Apr 17, 1990 |
8 km NW of Fort Recovery, Ohio |
M3.0 |
124 km |
| Jun 12, 2015 |
6 km NW of Convoy, Ohio |
M2.6 |
95 km |
| Jan 30, 2004 |
2 km S of Rockford, Ohio |
M2.5 |
120 km |
Source: USGS (M2.5+, 1990–2025)
Tornado History
498 tornadoes (EF0+) within 100 km since 1950.
Strongest: EF4. Total: 143 fatalities, 1,852 injuries.
| Date |
Rating |
Distance |
Fatalities |
| Apr 11, 1965 |
EF4 |
92 km |
4 |
| Apr 11, 1965 |
EF4 |
34 km |
5 |
| Apr 11, 1965 |
EF4 |
45 km |
36 |
| Apr 11, 1965 |
EF4 |
84 km |
21 |
| Apr 11, 1965 |
EF4 |
32 km |
31 |
| Apr 11, 1965 |
EF4 |
69 km |
23 |
| Mar 6, 1956 |
EF4 |
86 km |
1 |
| Mar 31, 2023 |
EF3 |
95 km |
0 |
| May 27, 2019 |
EF3 |
48 km |
0 |
| May 27, 2019 |
EF3 |
89 km |
0 |
| Aug 24, 2016 |
EF3 |
75 km |
0 |
| Jun 5, 2010 |
EF3 |
83 km |
0 |
| Oct 18, 2007 |
EF3 |
32 km |
0 |
| May 30, 2004 |
EF3 |
72 km |
0 |
| Oct 24, 2001 |
EF3 |
63 km |
1 |
| Mar 27, 1991 |
EF3 |
64 km |
1 |
| May 15, 1986 |
EF3 |
96 km |
0 |
| Mar 12, 1976 |
EF3 |
72 km |
0 |
| Apr 3, 1974 |
EF3 |
29 km |
5 |
| May 16, 1968 |
EF3 |
66 km |
1 |
Source: NOAA SPC (EF0+, 1950–2024)
Tsunami History
1 tsunami recorded within 500 km.
Highest wave on record: 3.0 m (10 ft).
| Year |
Location |
Cause |
Max Wave |
Deaths |
Distance |
| 1954 |
MICHIGAN CITY, IN (LAKE MICHIGAN) |
Avalanche |
3.0 m |
7 |
100 km |
Source: NOAA/NCEI Historical Tsunami Database. Sorted by wave height.
Monthly Weather
| Month |
Avg Temperature |
Precipitation |
Summary |
| January |
24°F (-4°C) |
1.9 in |
Coldest |
| February |
27°F (-3°C) |
1.8 in |
Driest |
| March |
37°F (3°C) |
2.8 in |
|
| April |
48°F (9°C) |
3.7 in |
|
| May |
60°F (15°C) |
3.7 in |
|
| June |
69°F (20°C) |
4.1 in |
Wettest |
| July |
73°F (23°C) |
3.7 in |
Warmest |
| August |
71°F (21°C) |
3.7 in |
|
| September |
64°F (18°C) |
3.5 in |
|
| October |
52°F (11°C) |
2.8 in |
|
| November |
40°F (5°C) |
3.1 in |
|
| December |
29°F (-2°C) |
2.8 in |
|
Oswego has a seasonal temperature swing of 48°F / from 24°F in January to 73°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 37.5 inches, with June being the wettest month (4.1") and February the driest (1.8").
Average costs for common services in Oswego. Prices are estimated based on regional cost of living data and may vary by provider.
Healthcare
| Doctor Visit (Primary Care) |
$233 ($140–$373) |
| Specialist Visit |
$327 ($187–$513) |
| Urgent Care Visit |
$187 ($93–$327) |
| Emergency Room Visit |
$2,053 ($746–$4,665) |
| Dental Cleaning |
$121 ($70–$187) |
| Dental Filling |
$233 ($140–$373) |
View all 40 services
Auto Repair
| Oil Change (Conventional) |
$42 ($23–$70) |
| Oil Change (Synthetic) |
$70 ($47–$112) |
| Brake Pad Replacement |
$280 ($140–$467) |
| Tire Rotation |
$37 ($19–$70) |
| New Tires (Set of 4) |
$560 ($373–$933) |
| Battery Replacement |
$187 ($93–$327) |
View all 18 services
Home Services
| Plumber (Per Hour) |
$93 ($56–$140) |
| Electrician (Per Hour) |
$84 ($47–$131) |
| HVAC Repair |
$373 ($140–$746) |
| HVAC System Install |
$6,531 ($3,732–$11,196) |
| Roof Repair |
$933 ($373–$1,866) |
| Roof Replacement |
$8,397 ($5,132–$13,995) |
View all 25 services
Legal
| Divorce (Uncontested) |
$1,400 ($467–$3,266) |
| Divorce (Contested) |
$13,995 ($4,665–$27,990) |
| DUI Defense |
$4,665 ($1,866–$9,330) |
| Bankruptcy (Chapter 7) |
$1,400 ($746–$2,799) |
| Will Preparation |
$467 ($187–$933) |
| Trust Preparation |
$2,333 ($933–$4,665) |
View all 12 services
Personal Care
| Men's Haircut |
$23 ($14–$42) |
| Women's Haircut |
$51 ($28–$93) |
| Hair Coloring (Full) |
$140 ($70–$233) |
| Manicure |
$23 ($14–$42) |
| Pedicure |
$37 ($23–$61) |
| Massage (1 Hour) |
$75 ($47–$121) |
View all 12 services
Food & Grocery
| Gallon of Milk (per gallon) |
$3.83 ($2.80–$5.13) |
| Dozen Eggs (per dozen) |
$3.27 ($2.33–$4.67) |
| Loaf of Bread |
$3.55 ($2.33–$5.13) |
| Chicken Breast (per lb) |
$4.20 ($2.80–$6.06) |
| Ground Beef (per lb) |
$5.13 ($3.73–$7.00) |
| Rice (per lb) |
$0.93 ($0.56–$1.68) |
View all 20 services
Utilities
| Electricity (Monthly) |
$131 ($75–$233) |
| Natural Gas (Monthly) |
$65 ($28–$140) |
| Water/Sewer (Monthly) |
$65 ($37–$112) |
| Internet (Monthly) |
$65 ($37–$93) |
| Cell Phone Plan (Monthly) |
$61 ($28–$93) |
| Cable TV (Monthly) |
$79 ($47–$140) |
View all 8 services
Transportation
| Monthly Parking (Downtown) |
$187 ($70–$467) |
| Car Insurance (Annual) |
$1,866 ($1,120–$3,266) |
| Bus Pass (Monthly) |
$65 ($28–$121) |
| Taxi/Uber (5-Mile Ride) |
$14 ($7.46–$23) |
| Car Registration (Annual) |
$93 ($28–$233) |
| Driver's License Renewal |
$28 ($14–$70) |
View all 8 services
Education & Childcare
| Daycare (Infant, Monthly) |
$1,120 ($560–$2,333) |
| Daycare (Toddler, Monthly) |
$933 ($467–$1,866) |
| After-School Care (Monthly) |
$373 ($187–$653) |
| Tutoring (Per Hour) |
$47 ($23–$93) |
| SAT/ACT Prep Course |
$933 ($373–$2,333) |
| Private School (K-12, Annual) |
$11,663 ($4,665–$27,990) |
View all 8 services
Pets
| Vet Visit (Routine Checkup) |
$56 ($28–$93) |
| Dog Vaccination (Annual) |
$93 ($47–$187) |
| Dog Grooming |
$56 ($28–$93) |
| Pet Boarding (Per Night) |
$37 ($19–$70) |
| Dog Spay/Neuter |
$280 ($140–$467) |
| Cat Spay/Neuter |
$187 ($93–$373) |
View all 9 services
Frequently Asked Questions About Oswego
What is the population of Oswego?
Oswego has a population of 284 residents and is located in Indiana. The population density is 604 people per square mile, spread across 0.5 square miles. The median age of residents is 31.7 years, which is younger than the national median of 38.9 years. The population is 36.6% female and 63.4% male.
Is Oswego expensive to live in?
Oswego is more affordable than the national average, with a cost of living index of 93.3 / below the baseline of 100. The median home value is $244,000 (13% below the U.S. median).
Is Oswego safe?
The violent crime rate in Oswego is 381 per 100,000 residents, above the national average of 380. Prospective residents should research specific neighborhoods, as crime rates can vary significantly within the city. Property crime occurs at a rate of 3,171 per 100,000 (above the national average). Overall, Oswego receives a safety grade of F based on combined crime data.
What is the weather like in Oswego?
Oswego has a four-season climate with an average annual temperature of 50°F (10°C). Winter temperatures average 24°F in January, while summers reach an average of 73°F in July. The area receives 275 sunny days per year, well above the national average of 205. Annual rainfall totals 39.8 inches, with 47.3 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median Air Quality Index (AQI) of 41.
How is the job market in Oswego?
The job market in Oswego is very strong, with unemployment at just 0.0% / well below the national rate of 3.6%. The average weekly wage is $1,133. There are 2,157 business establishments in the area, including 180 restaurants and food service locations.
How much does housing cost in Oswego?
The median home value in Oswego is $244,000. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $334,187. The homeownership rate is 91.5%. The average annual property tax is $4,375.
How are the schools in Oswego?
Schools in Oswego score 6 out of 10 on standardized testing, near the national average. 45.0% of adults in Oswego hold a bachelor's degree or higher, above the national average of 33.7%. 100.0% have completed high school. 0.0% hold a graduate or professional degree.
How healthy is Oswego?
The obesity rate in Oswego is 38.1% (above the national rate of 32.1%). 14.8% of adults are smokers. 23.8% are physically inactive. 25.3% of residents report depression. 59.7% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The primary care physician ratio is 1:2,289.
What are the demographics of Oswego?
The racial and ethnic makeup of Oswego is 96.8% White. 100% of residents speak only English at home. 0.0% of the population are military veterans. 34.8% of residents have a disability. 100.0% have health insurance coverage.