Porter, IN

Indiana · Porter County · Chicago-Naperville-Elgin Metro

Porter is a small city in Indiana with a population of 5,208. Residents earn $74,155 per year, which is 1% below the national average.

3.3 /5.0

B Good

5,208 Population 843/sq mi density

$74,155 Median Income $37,778 per capita

$259,700 Home Value $291,307 Zillow

$1,161 Median Rent 20.5% income on rent

50°F Avg Temperature 275 sunny days/yr

166 Violent Crime/100K 477 property/100K

Overall

3.3 / 5.0

Good overall score based on economy, affordability, safety and education

Economy

4.2 / 5.0

$74,155 median income, 3.9% unemployment

A+

Affordability

4.7 / 5.0

$259,700 home value, $1,161/mo rent

Safety

1.0 / 5.0

166 violent crimes/100K (56% below avg)

Education

3.1 / 5.0

26.3% bachelor's degree or higher

Discover Porter, IN

Explore over 40 sections covering people, economy, housing, health, crime, climate, community, costs, trends, schools, colleges, hospitals, treatment centers, industries, museums, libraries, breweries, farmers markets, grocery stores, pharmacies, campgrounds, parks, trails, stadiums, ski resorts, daycare centers, nursing homes, churches, fire stations, cell towers, bridges, power plants, EV stations, prisons, radio stations, airports, police stations, post offices, Amtrak stations, superfund sites, UNESCO sites, and more.
Use the tabs and dropdown menus below to navigate every data point we track for this city.

Full City Profile

Median Income $74,155

1% lower than US avg

Home Value $259,700

8% lower than US avg

Violent Crime 166/100K

56% lower than US avg

Bachelor's+ 26.3%

22% lower than US avg

Median Rent $1,161

0% lower than US avg

Obesity Rate 39.6%

23% higher than US avg

Unemployment 3.9%

8% higher than US avg

Poverty Rate 1.5%

88% lower than US avg

How Porter Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)

People

Population5,208

Median Age41.8 yrs

Density843/mi²

Male / Female45% / 55%

Largest GroupWhite 85%

Veterans8.0%

Economy

Median Income$74,155

Per Capita$37,778

Unemployment3.9%

Poverty1.5%

County GDP$9,875M

Commute27 min

Housing

A+

Home Value$259,700

Rent$1,161

Ownership77.2%

Zillow$291,307

Housing Units2,153

Rent Burden20.5%

Crime

Violent166/100K

Property477/100K

Murder0.0/100K

Assault145/100K

Burglary62/100K

Health

Obesity39.6%

Uninsured7.4%

Smoking14.6%

Depression25.3%

Heart Disease5.4%

Climate

Avg Temp50°F (10°C)

AQI44 (Good)

Rain39.2 in/yr

Sunny Days275/yr

Elevation664 ft (202 m)

Education

Bachelor's+26.3%

High School+96.4%

Graduate+9.1%

School Score6.64

Community

2024 VoteR 54% / D 44%

Commute27 min

Broadband96.5%

EV Stations1

Libraries7

Is Porter a Good Place to Live?

Based on current data, Porter receives an overall livability score of 3.3 out of 5.0, earning a grade of B. Key strengths include low crime rates, abundant sunshine, a low poverty rate, high health insurance coverage. Areas to be aware of include high obesity rates. Porter offers a solid quality of life with a good balance of affordability, safety, and opportunity.

Economy & Jobs

The median household income in Porter is $74,155, roughly in line with the national average of $75,149. Unemployment stands at 3.9%, indicating a healthy job market. Only 1.5% of residents live below the poverty line, well below the national rate of 12.4%. Workers commute an average of 27 minutes.

Cost of Living & Housing

The median home value in Porter is $259,700, roughly aligned with the national median of $281,900. Renters pay a median of $1,161 per month. A price-to-income ratio of 3.5x indicates a reasonably affordable housing market.

Safety & Crime

Violent crime in Porter is below the national average at 166 per 100,000 residents (U.S. avg: 380). Property crime occurs at a rate of 477 per 100,000, 76% below the national average.

Education

26.3% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 96.4% have completed high school. Local schools score 6.6/10 in standardized testing, reflecting strong academic performance.

Climate & Weather

Porter experiences four distinct seasons with an average temperature of 50°F. Winters average 25°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 39.2 inches, including 40.3 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 44.

Porter has a population of 5,208 with a density of 843 people per square mile, spread across 6.5 square miles. The median age is 41.8 years, 7% older than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 54.8% female and 45.2% male. The city is predominantly White (84.9%), with 3.2% Hispanic, 1.2% Black. English is the primary language spoken at home by 93.7% of residents, while 6.3% speak Spanish. 8.0% of the population are veterans, above the national rate of 6.0%. 10.2% of residents have a disability (below the 13.0% national average). 93.6% have health insurance coverage.

Population

5,208

Total Population

843

People / sq mi

41.8yrs

Median Age

7% above US avg

6.5mi²

Land Area

Gender Distribution

Male 45.2%

Female 54.8%

Race & Ethnicity

Porter vs U.S. Average

Language Spoken at Home

English Only 93.7%

19% above US avg

Spanish 6.3%

53% below US avg

Social Characteristics

Porter vs U.S. Average

The median household income in Porter is $74,155, which is 1% below the national average of $75,149. Per capita income is $37,778. The average weekly wage is $1,120, 22% lower than the U.S. average. The unemployment rate is 3.9% (above the 3.6% US average). 1.5% of residents live below the poverty line, lower than the national rate of 12.4%. The area has 4,215 business establishments, including 369 restaurants. The cost of living index is 93.3, below the national baseline of 100 / offering relatively affordable living. Workers commute an average of 27 minutes. 12.0% of workers work from home (below the 15.2% national rate).

Income: Porter vs U.S.

Commute Mode

Income

Median HH Income	$74,155
	1% below US avg
Per Capita Income	$37,778
Avg Weekly Wage	$1,120
IRS Avg AGI	$88,304
Gini Index	0.428 (0=equal, 1=unequal)

Employment & Poverty

Unemployment	3.9%
	8% above US avg
Poverty Rate	1.5%
	88% below US avg
Establishments (County)	4,215
County GDP	$9,875M

Business (County)

Restaurants	369
Healthcare	439
Retail	464
Manufacturing	151

Tax & Cost of Living

Property Tax (IRS)	$4,957
	42% above US avg
Cost of Living	93.30 (100=avg)
Effective Tax Rate	1.91%

Commute & Transportation

Commute Time	26.9 min
Drive Alone	78.1%
Public Transit	0.8%
Work from Home	12.0%

Walkability

The median home value in Porter is $259,700, 8% below the national median of $281,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $291,307, higher than the Census estimate. Homes sell for 99.9% of their list price. Monthly rent averages $1,161 (0% below the national average of $1,163). Fair market rent ranges from $1,082 for a one-bedroom to $1,317 for a two-bedroom apartment. 77.2% of housing units are owner-occupied (above the 65.4% national rate). There are 2,153 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1986. The average annual property tax is $4,957 (higher than the $3,500 national average). 20.5% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing. The home price-to-income ratio is 3.5x.

Home Value Sources

Ownership Split

Home Values

Census Median	$259,700
	8% below US avg
Zillow ZHVI	$291,307
Median List Price	$268,000

Real Estate Market (Redfin)

Median List Price	$268,000
$/Sq Ft	$160
Homes Sold	4
Sale-to-List Ratio	99.9%
Price Drops	42.9%
Inventory	14

Rental Costs

Census Median Rent	$1,161
	0% below US avg
Rent Burden	20.5%

HUD Fair Market Rent

Studio	$959
1 Bedroom	$1,082
2 Bedrooms	$1,317
3 Bedrooms	$1,612
4 Bedrooms	$1,744

Ownership & Property

Homeownership	77.2%
Owner-Occupied	77.2%
Renter-Occupied	22.8%
Housing Units	2,153
Median Year Built	1986

Property Tax

Avg Tax (IRS)	$4,957
	42% above US avg
Effective Rate	1.91%

In Porter, 39.6% of adults are obese, above the national rate of 32.1%. 10.3% have diabetes. Heart disease affects 5.4% of residents. 34.2% have high blood pressure. 14.6% are current smokers. 17.7% report binge drinking. 23.4% are physically inactive. 25.3% report depression (above the 20.0% national average). 18.0% experience frequent mental distress. 7.4% of residents lack health insurance. The primary care physician ratio is 1:1,778. The dentist ratio is 1:1,665. 79.4% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The food environment index is 8.0 out of 10.

Health Metrics: Porter vs U.S. Average (%)

Chronic Conditions

Obesity	39.6%
	23% above US avg
Diabetes	10.3%
Heart Disease	5.4%
High Blood Pressure	34.2%
Asthma	11.2%
COPD	6.4%
Cancer	7.2%
Stroke	2.7%

Behaviors & Mental Health

Smoking	14.6%
	4% above US avg
Binge Drinking	17.7%
Physical Inactivity	23.4%
Depression	25.3%
Mental Distress	18.0%
Physical Distress	12.5%
Short Sleep	37.2%

Healthcare Access

Insurance Rate	93.6%
Uninsured	7.4%
	14% below US avg
Primary Care	1:1,778
Dentists	1:1,665
Mental Health	1:422
Checkup Rate	77.9%
Dental Visits	66.0%
Premature Death	7,441/100K

Food & Exercise

Food Environment	8.0/10
Exercise Access	79.4%
Healthcare Facilities	439

Porter has a violent crime rate of 166 per 100,000 residents, 56% below the national average of 380. This breaks down to aggravated assault at 145.2 per 100,000, robbery at 0.0, rape at 20.7. The murder rate is 0.0 per 100,000 (below the national rate of 6.3). Property crime stands at 477 per 100,000, 76% below the U.S. average. This includes larceny/theft at 394, burglary at 62, vehicle theft at 21 per 100,000 residents. The county recorded 24 fatal traffic crashes. Overall, Porter receives a safety grade of F.

Crime Rates: Porter vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)

Violent Crime

Total Violent	165.9/100K
	56% below US avg
Murder	0.0/100K
	100% below US avg
Rape	20.7/100K
Robbery	0.0/100K
Assault	145.2/100K

Property Crime

Total Property	477.1/100K
	76% below US avg
Burglary	62.2/100K
Theft	394.1/100K
Vehicle Theft	20.7/100K
Arson	0.0/100K

Traffic Safety

Fatal Crashes (County/yr)	24
Avg Accident Severity	0.0 / 4.0

Safety Score

Safety Grade	F
Safety Score	1.0 / 5.0

View full crime details →

Porter experiences four distinct seasons with an average annual temperature of 50°F (10°C). Winters average 25°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 39.2 inches. The area receives 40.3 inches of snow annually, making winter weather a significant factor for residents. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 44. 66% of days have good air quality. The city sits at an elevation of 664 feet.

Temperature

25°F Jan (-4°C) 73°F Jul (23°C)

Annual Average	50.2°F
	7% below US avg
January Average	25°F (-4°C)
July Average	73°F (23°C)
Sunny Days	275 days/yr

Geography

Elevation	664 ft (202 m)
Area	6.5 sq mi (16.8 km²)
Population Density	843/sq mi
Coordinates	41.6275°N, 87.0827°W
Timezone	America/Indiana/Indianapolis
County	Porter County County
Nearest Airport	Porter County Regional (VPZ) 13 miles away

Precipitation & Snow

Annual Rainfall 39.2"

3% above US avg

Snowfall 40.3"

Wettest Month (Jun) 4.29"

Driest Month (Feb) 1.57"

Air Quality

AQI Median	44.0
Rating	Good
Good Days %	66.4%
Unhealthy Days	2

Air Pollutants (EPA 2023)

Ozone (O₃)	0.0465 ppm
SO₂ (Sulfur Dioxide)	2.55 ppb
PM2.5 (Fine Particles)	9.7 μg/m³

Natural Hazard Risk

Overall Risk	Relatively Moderate
Risk Score	81.4 / 100
Social Vulnerability	13.4 / 100
Community Resilience	89.0 / 100

Hazard Breakdown

Tornado	Relatively High
Hurricane	Very Low
Earthquake	Relatively Low
Wildfire	Very Low
Flood	Relatively Moderate
Hail	Very Low
Strong Wind	Relatively High
Heat Wave	Relatively Low
Winter Weather	Relatively Moderate
Lightning	Relatively Moderate
Ice Storm	Relatively Low
Drought	No Rating
Cold Wave	Relatively High
Landslide	Very Low
Coastal Flood	Very Low

Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.20 (Dec 2025)

Earthquake History

7 earthquakes (M2.5+) within 150 km since 1990. Strongest: M3.8. Most recent: M2.6 on Mar 15, 2025.

Feb 10, 2010	2 km NW of Lily Lake, Illinois	M3.8	123 km
Nov 4, 2013	1 km SSW of Lyons, Illinois	M3.2	65 km
Jul 15, 2024	2 km WNW of Somonauk, Illinois	M3.1	135 km
Jan 26, 2012	5 km NE of Topeka, Indiana	M3.0	133 km
Mar 25, 2015	3 km WNW of Lake in the Hills, Illinois	M2.9	123 km
Jun 10, 2013	4 km NNE of Virgil, Illinois	M2.6	125 km
Mar 15, 2025	6 km W of Dwight, Illinois	M2.6	133 km

Source: USGS (M2.5+, 1990–2025)

Tornado History

520 tornadoes (EF0+) within 100 km since 1950. Strongest: EF4. Total: 123 fatalities, 1,860 injuries.

Date	Rating	Distance	Fatalities
Jun 29, 1979	EF4	96 km	0
Jun 13, 1976	EF4	76 km	2
Sep 28, 1972	EF4	98 km	0
Apr 21, 1967	EF4	62 km	33
Apr 11, 1965	EF4	85 km	31
Apr 11, 1965	EF4	74 km	36
Apr 17, 1963	EF4	98 km	1
Jun 20, 2021	EF3	93 km	0
Jun 5, 2010	EF3	84 km	0
Oct 18, 2007	EF3	84 km	0
Oct 24, 2001	EF3	54 km	1
Mar 27, 1991	EF3	85 km	0
Apr 2, 1982	EF3	99 km	0
May 13, 1980	EF3	97 km	0
Mar 12, 1976	EF3	12 km	0
Mar 12, 1976	EF3	87 km	1
Mar 12, 1976	EF3	53 km	0
Jun 20, 1974	EF3	48 km	0
Oct 24, 1967	EF3	14 km	0
Nov 26, 1965	EF3	49 km	0

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	18 km

Source: NOAA/NCEI Historical Tsunami Database. Sorted by wave height.

Wildfire History

12 wildfires (100+ acres) within 100 km. Largest: UNNAMED (1,741 ac, 2019).

Year	Name	Acres	Distance
2019	UNNAMED	1,741	95 km
2019	UNNAMED	1,664	90 km
2000	UNNAMED	1,602	82 km
2021	NORTHEAST PRAIRIE UNIT 3	978	84 km
2024	NORTHEAST PRAIRIE 3 RX	938	84 km
1986	OGDEN DUNS	863	12 km
2021	UNNAMED	738	85 km
2021	MIDDLE GRANT CREEK	700	94 km
2019	UNNAMED	698	84 km
2021	21-INDU TOLLESTON DUNES EAST	594	11 km
2017	UNNAMED	549	94 km
2017	17 INDU COWLES DUNES	522	3 km

Source: NIFC/IRWIN (100+ acres)

Monthly Weather

Month	Avg Temperature	Precipitation	Summary
January	25°F (-4°C)	1.9 in	Coldest
February	27°F (-3°C)	1.6 in	Driest
March	37°F (3°C)	2.7 in
April	48°F (9°C)	3.7 in
May	59°F (15°C)	3.7 in
June	69°F (20°C)	4.3 in	Wettest
July	73°F (23°C)	3.7 in	Warmest
August	71°F (22°C)	3.7 in
September	64°F (18°C)	3.8 in
October	53°F (11°C)	3.0 in
November	41°F (5°C)	3.4 in
December	29°F (-2°C)	2.7 in

Porter has a seasonal temperature swing of 48°F / from 25°F in January to 73°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 38.2 inches, with June being the wettest month (4.3") and February the driest (1.6").

View full weather details →

Porter is located in Porter County. It is classified as Metro / 1 million+, part of a metropolitan area. 26.3% of adults hold a bachelor's degree or higher, 22% below the national average of 33.7%. 96.4% have completed high school. 9.1% hold a graduate or professional degree (below the 13.1% national rate). Area schools have an average test score of 6.6 out of 10. In the 2024 presidential election, the county voted Republican with 54.3% of the vote, a 10.5-point margin. 96.5% of households have broadband internet access. The area has 1 EV charging stations. There are 7 public libraries serving the community. 439 healthcare facilities operate in the area. 78.1% of workers drive alone to work.

2024 Presidential Election (County)

R 54.3%

D 43.8%

Winner: Republican by 10.5 points

Safety & Disasters

Fatal Crashes (County/yr)	24
Avg Accident Severity	0.0 / 4.0

F Safety Grade (1.0/5.0)

Education

Bachelor's Degree+	26.3%
	22% below US avg
High School+	96.4%
Graduate Degree+	9.1%
School Test Score	6.64

B Education Grade (3.1/5.0)

Area & Infrastructure

RUCC Code 1	Metro / 1 million+
Population Density	843/sq mi
Total Area	6.5 sq mi
County	Porter County County

Services

Broadband Access	96.5%
Avg Download Speed	106.4 Mbps
Avg Upload Speed	10.0 Mbps
Max Download Speed	1,000 Mbps
EV Charging Stations	1
Alt Fuel Stations	1
Public Libraries	7
Healthcare Facilities	439
Restaurants	369
Retail Stores	464

Commute & Transportation

Avg Commute	26.9 min
Drive Alone	78.1%
Public Transit	0.8%
Work from Home	12.0%

Average costs for common services in Porter. 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

Top Industries in Porter County

Largest private-sector industries by employment (BLS QCEW 2024 data, county level).

Industry	Jobs	Establishments	Avg Annual Pay	Location Quotient
Health Care & Social Assistance	9,735	452	$58,188	1.06
Manufacturing	9,713	184	$88,224	1.85
Retail Trade	7,165	434	$35,432	1.13
Accommodation & Food Services	6,677	359	$21,897	1.15
Construction	4,796	413	$86,298	1.43
Professional & Technical Services	3,237	563	$66,511	0.73
Other Services	2,588	346	$36,723	1.35
Administrative & Waste Services	2,426	241	$49,346	0.65
Transportation & Warehousing	2,410	173	$62,171	0.89
Educational Services	1,942	60	$37,551	1.47
Finance & Insurance	1,275	252	$86,524	0.49
Information & Technology	739	64	$58,206	0.62
Real Estate	673	168	$53,245	0.68
Management of Companies	524	30	$100,642	0.49
Arts & Entertainment	424	51	$28,307	0.40

Schools in Porter

2 public schools (NCES 2022-23 data).

School	Level	Enrollment	Teachers	Student/Teacher
Discovery Charter School (Charter)	Elementary	569	34	16.7:1
Newton Yost Elementary School	Elementary	369	26	14.2:1

View full schools details →

Radio Stations near Porter

6 stations within ~55 km.

Station	Genre	Quality
Cosy 103.7	—	AAC+ 64 kbps
WSRB 106.3 FM Chicago's R&B - Lansing, IL	rap hiphop rnb, soul	AAC 64 kbps
WJOB 1230 AM - 104.7 FM Hammond, IN	local talk, sports talk	MP3 128 kbps
Ancient Faith Music	—	AAC+ 96 kbps
Vocalo Radio	urban contemporary	MP3 128 kbps
Ancient Faith Talk	—	AAC+ 96 kbps

Campgrounds Near Porter

5 campgrounds found near Porter.

Name	Rating	Sites	Price
Chellberg Farm Picnic Shelters	5.0/5	3	$25–$50
Dunewood Campground	4.4/5	66	$25
Dunbar Group Site	4.3/5	1	$100
Central Avenue Walk-in Sites	3.4/5	5	$25
West Beach Picnic Shelters	2.0/5	8	$25

National Parks Near Porter

16 national parks and monuments found near Porter.

Park	Type	Fee
Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park	State Park	Free
Bass Lake State Beach	State Park	Free
Calumet Park	State Park	Free
Grand Mere State Park	State Park	Free
Harbor Park Promenade	State Park	Free
Indiana Dunes National Park	National Park	$20
Indiana Dunes State Park	State Park	Free
Jasper Dairy Road Park	State Park	Free
Lake Park Expansion	State Park	Free
Potato Creek State Park	State Park	Free
Pullman National Historical Park	National Historical Park	Free
Tippecanoe River State Park	State Park	Free
Van Buren State Park	State Park	Free
Van Buren Trail State Park	State Park	Free
Warren Dunes State Park	State Park	Free
Warren Woods State Park	State Park	Free

Historical Trends — Porter

Population and economic data over time (US Census / ACS estimates).

Population

Median Household Income

Year	Population	Median Income
2013	4,864	$63,325
2015	4,846	$76,053
2017	4,814	$94,519
2019	4,841	$91,667
2021	5,234	$79,247
2023	5,203	$74,155

Museums in Porter

Name	Type	Address	Phone	Annual Revenue
BRAUER MUSEUM OF ART	ART MUSEUM		2194645365	$144,152,834
TALTREE ARBORETUM & GARDENS	ARBORETUM, BOTANICAL GARDEN, OR NATURE CENTER		2194620025	$1,344,296
UNITED WAY OF GREATER LA PORTE COUNTY	SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY MUSEUM OR PLANETARIUM		2192103534	$1,005,698
PORTER COUNTY HERITAGE CORPORATION	GENERAL MUSEUM		2194653595	$256,446
MICHIGAN HISTORICAL MUSEUM	HISTORIC PRESERVATION		5173733559	$83,894
OLD LIGHTHOUSE MUSEUM	GENERAL MUSEUM	1 WASHINGTON STREET	2198726133	$83,894
MICHIGAN CITY ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY	ZOO, AQUARIUM, OR WILDLIFE CONSERVATION	115 LAKE SHORE DR	2198731510	$46,816
BAILLY HOMESTEAD AND CHELLBERG FARM	GENERAL MUSEUM	HIGHWAY 20 & MINERAL SPRINGS ROAD	2199267561
BARKER MANSION	HISTORIC PRESERVATION		2198731520
BARTHOLOMEW ALYCE CHLD MUSEUM	GENERAL MUSEUM		2198748222
BEVERLY SHORES MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY	ART MUSEUM	525 BROADWAY	2198781517
DUNELAND HISTORICAL SOCIETY	HISTORIC PRESERVATION		2199839715
GREAT LAKES MUSEUM OF MILITARY HISTORY	GENERAL MUSEUM
HISTORIC PRESERVATION OF PORTER COUNTY	HISTORIC PRESERVATION
HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF OGDEN DUNES INDIANA	HISTORIC PRESERVATION
HOBART HISTORICAL SOCIETY	HISTORIC PRESERVATION	706 E 4TH ST	2199420970
INDIANA AVIATION MUSEUM	GENERAL MUSEUM
INDIANA DUNES NATIONAL LAKESHORE	HISTORIC PRESERVATION		2199267561
LAKE STATION HISTORICAL SOCIETY	HISTORIC PRESERVATION
MEMORIAL OPERA HOUSE FOUNDATION	HISTORIC PRESERVATION		2195489137
NORTHWEST INDIANA STEEL HERITAGE PROJECT	GENERAL MUSEUM		2197877156
POLISH AMERICAN HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION	HISTORIC PRESERVATION
PORTAGE COMMUNITY HISTORICAL SOCIETY	HISTORIC PRESERVATION	5250 US HIGHWAY 6	2197628349
RAG TOPS MUSEUM OF MI CITY	GENERAL MUSEUM		2198781514
ROSS TOWNSHIP HISTORICAL SOCIETY	HISTORIC PRESERVATION
WANATAH HISTORICAL SOCIETY	HISTORIC PRESERVATION
WESTCHESTER TOWNSHIP HISTORY MUSEUM	HISTORY MUSEUM		2199839715
WESTVILLE COMMUNITY HISTORICAL SOCIETY	HISTORIC PRESERVATION

Libraries in Porter

Name	Address	Annual Visits
PORTER COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM	103 JEFFERSON STREET	624,753
WESTCHESTER PUBLIC LIBRARY	200 WEST INDIANA AVENUE	309,760
MICHIGAN CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY	100 EAST 4TH STREET	225,626
WESTVILLE-NEW DURHAM TOWNSHIP PUBLIC LIBRARY	153 MAIN STREET	7,596
WANATAH PUBLIC LIBRARY	114 SOUTH MAIN STREET	5,045

Farmers Markets in Porter

Name	Address	Season	Hours	Organic	Website
Chesterton's European Market	220 Broadway	May to October	Sat:8:00 am - 2:00 pm;	Yes	Visit
Hobart Summer Market on the Lake	Festival Park - 111 E. Old Ridge Road	06/05/2014 to 09/04/2014	Thu: 3:00 PM-8:00 PM;		Visit
Miller Beach Farmers Market	667 S Lake St	05/07/2017 to 09/24/2017	Sun: 10:00 AM-3:00 PM;		Visit
Portage Community Farmer's Market	6300 South Founders Square Park		Sun: 11:00 AM-3:00 PM;	Yes	Visit
Riverside Market	234 East 2nd Street
St. Stanislaus of Michigan City Farmer's Market	109 Ann Street	04/30/2016 to 10/29/2016	Sat: 8:00 AM-1:00 PM;	Yes
Valparaiso Market	68 Lafayette Street	06/03/2017 to 10/21/2017	Tue: 8:00 AM-2:00 PM;Sat: 8:00 AM-2:00 PM;		Visit

Breweries in Porter

Name	Type	Address	Phone	Website
Brew Basic	Brewers	113 York St	2192103184
Brick Brewing Co	Micro-breweries	305 Main St	2199422337
Figure 8 Brewing	Breweries, Food & Drink	150 S Washington St	2194772000
Figure Eight Brewery	Brewery	150 Washington Saint Valparaiso In 46383	2194772000
Hunter's Brewing	Food & Drink, Breweries, Brewery	1535 S Calumet Rd	2197286729	Visit
Ironwood Brewing Llc	Brewery	6 Roosevelt Rd
Salad Bar Michigan City	Restaurants, Barbecue, Breweries & Brew Pubs, Bar & Grill Restaurants, Caterers, Restaurant Delivery	415 E Us Highway 20	2192620610	Visit
Sporting Life Liquors	Liquor Stores, IN>Brewery, Gary, IN, Shopping & Stores, Gary Liquor Stores	4635 Melton Rd	2199381075

EV Charging Stations in Porter

Name	Address	Network	Level 2	DC Fast	Connectors	Access
INDIANA DUNES V PARKING LOT	1215 IN-49	ChargePoint Network	2		J1772	public

Cell Towers in Porter

Address	Structure Type	Height (ft)
236 East County Road 600 North (61448)	GTOWER	96
236 East County Road 600 North (61448)	GTOWER	96
700 West Fourth Street (15747)	LTOWER	81
700 West Fourth Street (15747)	LTOWER	81
11233 West 600 South (410)	LTOWER	78
11233 West 600 South (410)	LTOWER	78
8738 WEST COUNTY ROAD 1300 SOUTH (24652)	LTOWER	76
8738 WEST COUNTY ROAD 1300 SOUTH (24652)	LTOWER	76
1931 LAKE SHORE CR (99242)	GTOWER	75
1931 LAKE SHORE CR (99242)	GTOWER	75
9555 West County Road 125 South (404)	LTOWER	67
9555 West County Road 125 South (404)	LTOWER	67
478 E. County Road 1000 N. (14770)	MTOWER	61
930 South Woodland Avenue (16626)	MTOWER	61
930 South Woodland Avenue (16626)	MTOWER	61
478 E. County Road 1000 N. (14770)	MTOWER	61
Waterford Site 3613 N 950 W - HV218/421 & 94	TOWER	61
3100 Calumet Ave (81939)	MTOWER	60
3100 Calumet Ave (81939)	MTOWER	60
5914 MELTON ROAD (476)	MTOWER	59
5914 MELTON ROAD (476)	MTOWER	59
9555 W. 125 South	TOWER	56
6075 MELTON ROAD (61457)	LTOWER	49
6075 MELTON ROAD (61457)	LTOWER	49
ROUTE 20 AND ROUTE 49 (61451)	LTOWER	47
ROUTE 20 AND ROUTE 49 (61451)	LTOWER	47
3810 EAST 7TH AVENUE (392)	MTOWER	37
3810 EAST 7TH AVENUE (392)	MTOWER	37

Fire Stations in Porter

Name	Address	Type	Active Firefighters	Volunteers	Phone
Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore Fire Management	1100 N Mineral Springs RD	Mostly volunteer			219-926-7561
Porter Fire Department	550 W Beam ST	Mostly volunteer			219-926-1226

Bridges in Porter

Type	Kind	Year Built	Length (ft)	Daily Traffic	Condition
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel continuous	1969	236	80,516	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel continuous	1969	195	80,516	G
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel continuous	1969	156	80,516	G
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel continuous	1969	195	40,435	G
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel continuous	1969	156	40,081	G
Stringer/Multi-beam	Prestressed concrete continuous	1993	119	7,745	F
Box Beam (Multiple)	Prestressed concrete	1966	139	5,130	P
Tee Beam	Prestressed concrete	2010	93	5,060	G
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel continuous	1966	236	4,035	G
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel continuous	1968	151	1,680	G
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel continuous	1969	214	1,254	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Prestressed concrete continuous	1930	204	1,191	G
Stringer/Multi-beam	Prestressed concrete	2011	72	920	G
Box Beam (Multiple)	Prestressed concrete	1964	60	400	P
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel continuous	1969	314	180	F
Box Beam (Multiple)	Prestressed concrete	1975	77	160	F

Superfund Sites Near Porter

4 EPA Superfund sites (hazardous waste cleanup locations).

Site	Address	County
BETA STEEL	6600 U.S. HIGHWAY 12	PORTER
BETA STEEL	6600 U.S. HIGHWAY 12	PORTER
OIL TECHNOLOGY, INC./U.S. STEEL GARY	ONE NORTH BROADWAY	LAKE
PORTSIDE ENERGY CORP	6290 US HWY 12	PORTER

Airports Near Porter

50 airports within the area.

Airport	IATA	Type
Chicago Midway International Airport	MDW	Large Airport
Gary/Chicago International Airport	GYY	Medium Airport
Michigan City Municipal Airport	MGC	Medium Airport
Porter County Municipal Airport	VPZ	Medium Airport
Alley Oop Airport	—	Small Airport
Andrews University Airpark	—	Small Airport
Arens Field	—	Small Airport
Baroda Airport	—	Small Airport
Benedick Airport	—	Small Airport
Benoit Airport	—	Small Airport
Blackhawk Airport	—	Small Airport
Blackmon Field	—	Small Airport
Bodin Airport	—	Small Airport
Bult Field	—	Small Airport
Chain-O-Lakes Airport	—	Small Airport
Crown Point Airfield	—	Small Airport
Culp Airport	—	Small Airport
Dague Strip	—	Small Airport
Ddt Field	—	Small Airport
Dillon Airport	—	Small Airport
Drake Field	—	Small Airport
Dreessen Field	—	Small Airport
Flying M Airport	—	Small Airport
Flying U Ranch Airport	—	Small Airport
Gilmore Airport	—	Small Airport
Griffith-Merrillville Airport	—	Small Airport
Gutwein Airport	—	Small Airport
Gutwein Airport	—	Small Airport
Hallmark Airport	—	Small Airport
Hancock Airport	—	Small Airport
Heritage Farm Field	—	Small Airport
Hobart Sky Ranch Airport	—	Small Airport
Hustons Airport	—	Small Airport
I & C Field	—	Small Airport
Jasper County Airport	RNZ	Small Airport
Johnson Airport	—	Small Airport
La Porte Municipal Airport	LPO	Small Airport
Lake Village Airport	—	Small Airport
Lansing Municipal Airport	—	Small Airport
Lou Abbett Farms Airport	—	Small Airport
Lowell Airport	—	Small Airport
Loy Airport	—	Small Airport
May's Strip	—	Small Airport
Meadow Creek Airport	—	Small Airport
Mussman Airport	—	Small Airport
Myers Airport	—	Small Airport
Norm's Airport	—	Small Airport
Norman Airport	—	Small Airport
North West Indiana Air Airport	—	Small Airport
Orthodontic Strip	—	Small Airport

Police Stations in Porter

9 police stations.

Station	Address	Phone
Chesterton Police Department	791 Broadway
Hobart Police Department	East 4th Street
Long Beach Police Dept.
Michigan City Police Department	1201 East Michigan Boulevard
Valparaiso Police Department
Valparaiso Police Department
Valparaiso University Police Department
Winfield Police Department	10645 Randolph Street
Winfield Police Department	10645 Randolph Street

Grocery Stores in Porter

2 grocery stores.

Store	Type	Address
Porter Zip Foods Inc	Convenience Store	29 Franklin St
V Shore Stop	Convenience Store	2 E Dunes Hwy

Treatment Centers in Porter

15 treatment centers.

Center	Type	Phone
Fresh Start Counseling Services	Substance Abuse	219-548-9400
Heartland Wellness Center	Both	219-690-7025
Ibekie Foundation Inc	Both	219-769-4400
Indiana Center for Recovery - Outpatient Services LLC	Substance Abuse	219-327-2977
Midwest Ctr for Youth and Families - South Shore Academy	Mental Health	888-629-3471 x101
Northshore Health Centers	Both	219-763-8112
NorthShore Health Centers	Substance Abuse	219-763-8112
PACT Recovery Connection	Substance Abuse	219-510-6501
Pillars of Wellness	Both	219-323-3311
Porter Starke Services Inc	Both	219-531-3500
Porter Starke Services Inc	Mental Health	219-531-3500
Porter Starke Services Inc	Both	219-762-9557
Porter Starke Services Inc - Recovery Center/Valparaiso	Substance Abuse	219-476-4676
Regional Health Systems - Ridgewood	Both	219-769-4005
Semoran Treatment Center - Metro Treatment of Gary LP	Substance Abuse	219-938-4651

Churches & Religious Organizations in Porter

3 religious organizations (IRS tax-exempt data).

Name	Address
PORTER UNITED METHODIST CHURCH	100 E BEAM ST
SCRIPTURE MEMORY MINISTRY	110 S MINERAL SPRINGS RD
STEP BY STEP MINISTRIES INC	815 S BABCOCK RD

Explore Near Porter

Haunted Places

Locations with documented reports of paranormal activity and sightings

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UFO Sightings

Reported UFO sightings from the National UFO Reporting Center database

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Historic Markers

Officially designated historical markers from the Historical Marker Database

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Frequently Asked Questions About Porter

What is the population of Porter?

Porter has a population of 5,208 residents and is located in Indiana. The population density is 843 people per square mile, spread across 6.5 square miles. The median age of residents is 41.8 years, which is older than the national median of 38.9 years. The population is 54.8% female and 45.2% male.

Is Porter expensive to live in?

Porter is more affordable than the national average, with a cost of living index of 93.3 / below the baseline of 100. The median household income is $74,155, 1% below the national average of $75,149. The median home value is $259,700 (8% below the U.S. median). Renters pay a median of $1,161 per month. The home price-to-income ratio is 3.5x, indicating housing is reasonably affordable relative to local income levels.

Is Porter safe?

Porter is safer than the national average, with a violent crime rate of 166 per 100,000 compared to the U.S. rate of 380. Property crime occurs at a rate of 477 per 100,000 (below the national average). Overall, Porter receives a safety grade of F based on combined crime data.

What is the weather like in Porter?

Porter has a four-season climate with an average annual temperature of 50°F (10°C). Winter temperatures average 25°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 39.2 inches, with 40.3 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median Air Quality Index (AQI) of 44.

How is the job market in Porter?

Porter has a healthy job market with an unemployment rate of 3.9%, near the national average of 3.6%. The average weekly wage is $1,120. There are 4,215 business establishments in the area, including 369 restaurants and food service locations. The average commute time is 27 minutes, and 12.0% of workers work from home.

How much does housing cost in Porter?

The median home value in Porter is $259,700. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $291,307. For renters, the median monthly rent is $1,161. Fair market rent is $1,082 for a 1-bedroom and $1,317 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is 77.2%. The average annual property tax is $4,957.

How are the schools in Porter?

Schools in Porter score 6.6 out of 10 on standardized testing, near the national average. 26.3% of adults in Porter hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the national average of 33.7%. 96.4% have completed high school. 9.1% hold a graduate or professional degree.

How healthy is Porter?

The obesity rate in Porter is 39.6% (above the national rate of 32.1%). 14.6% of adults are smokers. 23.4% are physically inactive. 25.3% of residents report depression. 7.4% lack health insurance. 79.4% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The primary care physician ratio is 1:1,778.

What is transportation like in Porter?

The average commute in Porter is 27 minutes. 78.1% of workers drive alone to work, and 12.0% work from home.

What are the demographics of Porter?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Porter is 84.9% White, 1.2% Black or African American, 3.2% Hispanic or Latino. 93.7% of residents speak only English at home, while 6.3% speak Spanish. 8.0% of the population are military veterans. 10.2% of residents have a disability. 93.6% have health insurance coverage.

Nearby Cities

Burns Harbor, IN 2,198 pop · 2.3 mi Chesterton, IN 14,326 pop · 2.4 mi Portage, IN 37,951 pop · 5.6 mi Ogden Dunes, IN 1,213 pop · 5.7 mi South Haven, IN 7,177 pop · 6.8 mi Salt Creek Commons, IN 1,973 pop · 8.6 mi Lake Station, IN 13,109 pop · 9.5 mi Valparaiso, IN 34,377 pop · 10.3 mi New Chicago, IN 2,348 pop · 10.9 mi Westville, IN 5,291 pop · 11.1 mi Shorewood Forest, IN 3,030 pop · 12.1 mi Michigan City, IN 31,894 pop · 12.5 mi Trail Creek, IN 1,983 pop · 12.7 mi Hobart, IN 29,646 pop · 12.7 mi

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Porter, IN

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City Guide — Porter

Overview 11/11

People 10/10

Economy 13/13

Housing 13/17

Health 25/26

Crime & Safety 11/12

Climate & Environment 19/19

Community 14/14

Cost of Services 2/3

Historical Trends 3/3

Geography 6/6

Places & Facilities 19/32

Explore (Map Features) 3/3

How Porter Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)

People

Economy

Housing

Crime

Health

Climate

Education

Community

Is Porter a Good Place to Live?

Economy & Jobs

Cost of Living & Housing

Safety & Crime

Education

Climate & Weather

Population

Gender Distribution

Race & Ethnicity

Porter vs U.S. Average

Language Spoken at Home

Social Characteristics

Porter vs U.S. Average

Income: Porter vs U.S.

Commute Mode

Income

Employment & Poverty

Business (County)

Tax & Cost of Living

Commute & Transportation

Walkability

Home Value Sources

Ownership Split

Home Values

Real Estate Market (Redfin)

Rental Costs

HUD Fair Market Rent

Ownership & Property

Property Tax

Health Metrics: Porter vs U.S. Average (%)

Chronic Conditions

Behaviors & Mental Health

Healthcare Access

Food & Exercise

Crime Rates: Porter vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)

Violent Crime

Property Crime

Traffic Safety

Safety Score

Temperature

Geography

Precipitation & Snow

Air Quality

Air Pollutants (EPA 2023)

Natural Hazard Risk

Hazard Breakdown

Earthquake History

Tornado History

Tsunami History

Wildfire History

Monthly Weather

2024 Presidential Election (County)

Safety & Disasters

Education

Area & Infrastructure