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Wheeler, IN
Indiana · Porter County · Chicago-Naperville-Elgin Metro
Wheeler is a small town in Indiana with a population of 135. Residents earn $36,184 per year, which is 52% below the national average.
Data updated April 2026
2.6
/5.0
C+
Fair
135
Population
51/sq mi density
$36,184
Median Income
$30,861 per capita
$143,200
Home Value
$263,902 Zillow
51°F
Avg Temperature
275 sunny days/yr
163
Violent Crime/100K
2,136 property/100K
C+
Overall
2.6 / 5.0
Fair overall score based on economy, affordability, safety and education
B
Economy
3.2 / 5.0
$36,184 median income, 0.0% unemployment
A
Affordability
4.5 / 5.0
$143,200 home value
F
Safety
1.0 / 5.0
163 violent crimes/100K (57% below avg)
D
Education
1.6 / 5.0
8.1% bachelor's degree or higher
Discover Wheeler, 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.
Median Income
$36,184
52% lower than US avg
Home Value
$143,200
49% lower than US avg
Violent Crime
163/100K
57% lower than US avg
Bachelor's+
8.1%
76% lower than US avg
Obesity Rate
41.4%
29% higher than US avg
Unemployment
0.0%
100% lower than US avg
Poverty Rate
16.3%
31% higher than US avg
How Wheeler Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)
People
Population135
Median Age64.0 yrs
Density51/mi²
Male / Female50% / 50%
Largest GroupWhite 100%
Veterans5.2%
Economy
BMedian Income$36,184
Per Capita$30,861
Unemployment0.0%
Poverty16.3%
County GDP$9,875M
Commute35 min
Housing
AHome Value$143,200
Ownership100.0%
Zillow$263,902
Housing Units135
Rent Burden29.0%
Crime
FViolent163/100K
Property2,136/100K
Health
Obesity41.4%
Uninsured8.8%
Smoking17.8%
Depression26.5%
Heart Disease6.0%
Climate
Avg Temp51°F (10°C)
AQI41 (Good)
Rain40.3 in/yr
Sunny Days275/yr
Elevation675 ft (206 m)
Education
DBachelor's+8.1%
High School+89.6%
Graduate+6.5%
School Score6.64
Community
2024 VoteR 54% / D 44%
Commute35 min
Broadband88.0%
EV Stations4
Libraries7
Is Wheeler a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, Wheeler receives an overall livability score of 2.6 out of 5.0, earning a grade of C+. Key strengths include low unemployment, low crime rates, affordable housing, abundant sunshine. Areas to be aware of include an elevated poverty rate, below-average incomes, high obesity rates. Wheeler has some notable strengths but also faces challenges that prospective residents should consider.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in Wheeler is $36,184, 52% below the national average of $75,149. The job market is very strong with unemployment at just 0.0%. The poverty rate of 16.3% exceeds the national average of 12.4%, indicating economic hardship for a significant portion of the population. Workers commute an average of 35 minutes.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in Wheeler is $143,200, 49% below the national median / offering relatively affordable homeownership. A price-to-income ratio of 4x indicates a reasonably affordable housing market.
Safety & Crime
Violent crime in Wheeler is below the national average at 163 per 100,000 residents (U.S. avg: 380). Property crime occurs at a rate of 2,136 per 100,000, near the national average.
Education
8.1% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 89.6% have completed high school. Local schools score 6.6/10 in standardized testing, reflecting strong academic performance.
Climate & Weather
Wheeler experiences four distinct seasons with an average temperature of 51°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 40.3 inches, including 40.0 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 41.
Wheeler has a population of 135 with a density of 51 people per square mile, spread across 2.7 square miles. The median age is 64.0 years, 65% older than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 49.6% female and 50.4% male. The city is predominantly White (100%). English is the primary language spoken at home by 100% of residents. 5.2% of the population are veterans. 18.7% of residents have a disability (above the 13.0% national average). 83.9% have health insurance coverage.
Population
135
Total Population
51
People / sq mi
64.0yrs
Median Age
65% above US avg
2.7mi²
Land Area
Gender Distribution
Race & Ethnicity
Wheeler vs U.S. Average
Language Spoken at Home
Social Characteristics
Wheeler vs U.S. Average
The median household income in Wheeler is $36,184, which is 52% below the national average of $75,149. Per capita income is $30,861 (below the $39,052 national figure). The average weekly wage is $1,120, 22% lower than the U.S. average. The unemployment rate is 0.0% (below the 3.6% US average). 16.3% of residents live below the poverty line, higher 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 35 minutes (longer than the 28-minute US average). 27.1% of workers work from home (above the 15.2% national rate).
Income: Wheeler vs U.S.
Commute Mode
Income
| Median HH Income | $36,184 |
| 52% below US avg | |
| Per Capita Income | $30,861 |
| Avg Weekly Wage | $1,120 |
| IRS Avg AGI | $88,304 |
| Gini Index | 0.428 (0=equal, 1=unequal) |
Employment & Poverty
| Unemployment | 0.0% |
| 100% below US avg | |
| Poverty Rate | 16.3% |
| 31% above 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 | 3.46% |
Commute & Transportation
| Commute Time | 34.8 min |
| Drive Alone | 72.9% |
| Public Transit | 0.0% |
| Work from Home | 27.1% |
Walkability
The median home value in Wheeler is $143,200, 49% below the national median of $281,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $263,902, higher than the Census estimate. Fair market rent ranges from $882 for a one-bedroom to $1,096 for a two-bedroom apartment. 100.0% of housing units are owner-occupied (above the 65.4% national rate). There are 135 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1975. The average annual property tax is $4,957 (higher than the $3,500 national average). 29.0% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing. The home price-to-income ratio is 4x.
Home Value Sources
Ownership Split
Home Values
| Census Median | $143,200 |
| 49% below US avg | |
| Zillow ZHVI | $263,902 |
Real Estate Market (Redfin)
Rental Costs
| Rent Burden | 29.0% |
HUD Fair Market Rent
| Studio | $816 |
| 1 Bedroom | $882 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,096 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,391 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,590 |
Ownership & Property
| Homeownership | 100.0% |
| Owner-Occupied | 100.0% |
| Renter-Occupied | 0.0% |
| Housing Units | 135 |
| Median Year Built | 1975 |
Property Tax
| Avg Tax (IRS) | $4,957 |
| 42% above US avg | |
| Effective Rate | 3.46% |
In Wheeler, 41.4% of adults are obese, above the national rate of 32.1%. 11.1% have diabetes. Heart disease affects 6.0% of residents. 35.6% have high blood pressure. 17.8% are current smokers (above the 14.0% national rate). 17.4% report binge drinking. 26.8% are physically inactive. 26.5% report depression (above the 20.0% national average). 19.6% experience frequent mental distress. 8.8% 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: Wheeler vs U.S. Average (%)
Chronic Conditions
| Obesity | 41.4% |
| 29% above US avg | |
| Diabetes | 11.1% |
| Heart Disease | 6.0% |
| High Blood Pressure | 35.6% |
| Asthma | 11.7% |
| COPD | 7.7% |
| Cancer | 7.1% |
| Stroke | 3.0% |
Behaviors & Mental Health
| Smoking | 17.8% |
| 27% above US avg | |
| Binge Drinking | 17.4% |
| Physical Inactivity | 26.8% |
| Depression | 26.5% |
| Mental Distress | 19.6% |
| Physical Distress | 14.0% |
| Short Sleep | 39.1% |
Healthcare Access
| Insurance Rate | 83.9% |
| Uninsured | 8.8% |
| 2% above US avg | |
| Primary Care | 1:1,778 |
| Dentists | 1:1,665 |
| Mental Health | 1:422 |
| Checkup Rate | 77.2% |
| Dental Visits | 60.0% |
| Premature Death | 7,441/100K |
Food & Exercise
| Food Environment | 8.0/10 |
| Exercise Access | 79.4% |
| Healthcare Facilities | 439 |
Wheeler has a violent crime rate of 163 per 100,000 residents, 57% below the national average of 380. Property crime stands at 2,136 per 100,000, 9% above the U.S. average. The county recorded 24 fatal traffic crashes. Overall, Wheeler receives a safety grade of F.
Crime Rates: Wheeler vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)
Violent Crime
| Total Violent | 163.0/100K |
| 57% below US avg | |
Property Crime
| Total Property | 2,135.6/100K |
| 9% above US avg |
Traffic Safety
| Fatal Crashes (County/yr) | 24 |
| Traffic Accidents | 2 |
| Avg Accident Severity | 3.0 / 4.0 |
Safety Score
| Safety Grade | F |
| Safety Score | 1.0 / 5.0 |
Wheeler experiences four distinct seasons with an average annual temperature of 51°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 40.3 inches. The area receives 40.0 inches of snow annually, a moderate snowfall amount. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 41. The city sits at an elevation of 675 feet.
Temperature
25°F Jan (-4°C)
73°F Jul (23°C)
| Annual Average | 50.5°F |
| 6% below US avg | |
| January Average | 25°F (-4°C) |
| July Average | 73°F (23°C) |
| Sunny Days | 275 days/yr |
Geography
| Elevation | 675 ft (206 m) |
| Area | 2.7 sq mi (6.9 km²) |
| Population Density | 51/sq mi |
| Coordinates | 41.5105°N, 87.1712°W |
| Timezone | America/Indiana/Indianapolis |
| County | Porter County County |
| Nearest Airport | Porter County Regional (VPZ) 9 miles away |
Precipitation & Snow
Air Quality
| AQI Median | 41.0 |
| Rating | Good |
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)
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 | 32 km |
Source: NOAA/NCEI Historical Tsunami Database. Sorted by wave height.
Monthly Weather
| Month | Avg Temperature | Precipitation | Summary |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 25°F (-4°C) | 1.9 in | Coldest |
| February | 28°F (-3°C) | 1.5 in | Driest |
| March | 38°F (3°C) | 2.6 in | |
| April | 49°F (9°C) | 3.7 in | |
| May | 59°F (15°C) | 3.8 in | |
| June | 69°F (21°C) | 4.3 in | Wettest |
| July | 73°F (23°C) | 3.7 in | Warmest |
| August | 72°F (22°C) | 3.7 in | |
| September | 64°F (18°C) | 3.7 in | |
| October | 53°F (12°C) | 3.0 in | |
| November | 41°F (5°C) | 3.4 in | |
| December | 29°F (-2°C) | 2.6 in |
Wheeler has a seasonal temperature swing of 48°F / from 25°F in January to 73°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 37.8 inches, with June being the wettest month (4.3") and February the driest (1.5").
Wheeler is located in Porter County. It is classified as Metro / 1 million+, part of a metropolitan area. 8.1% of adults hold a bachelor's degree or higher, 76% below the national average of 33.7%. 89.6% have completed high school. 6.5% 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. 88.0% of households have broadband internet access. The area has 4 EV charging stations. There are 7 public libraries serving the community. 439 healthcare facilities operate in the area. 72.9% of workers drive alone to work.
2024 Presidential Election (County)
Winner: Republican by 10.5 points
Safety & Disasters
| Fatal Crashes (County/yr) | 24 |
| Traffic Accidents | 2 |
| Avg Accident Severity | 3.0 / 4.0 |
F
Safety Grade (1.0/5.0)
Education
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 8.1% |
| 76% below US avg | |
| High School+ | 89.6% |
| Graduate Degree+ | 6.5% |
| School Test Score | 6.64 |
D
Education Grade (1.6/5.0)
Area & Infrastructure
| RUCC Code 1 | Metro / 1 million+ |
| Population Density | 51/sq mi |
| Total Area | 2.7 sq mi |
| County | Porter County County |
Services
| Broadband Access | 88.0% |
| Avg Download Speed | 106.4 Mbps |
| Avg Upload Speed | 10.0 Mbps |
| Max Download Speed | 1,000 Mbps |
| EV Charging Stations | 4 |
| Alt Fuel Stations | 8 |
| Public Libraries | 7 |
| Healthcare Facilities | 439 |
| Restaurants | 369 |
| Retail Stores | 464 |
Commute & Transportation
| Avg Commute | 34.8 min |
| Drive Alone | 72.9% |
| Public Transit | 0.0% |
| Work from Home | 27.1% |
Average costs for common services in Wheeler. 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) |
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) |
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) |
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) |
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) |
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) |
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) |
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) |
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) |
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) |
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 |
Radio Stations near Wheeler
34 stations within ~55 km.
| Station | Genre | Quality | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 103.5 KISS FM WKSC Chicago | hits, hot adult contemporary | AAC | |
| 91.5 WBEZ-FM | public radio | AAC 64 kbps | |
| 107.5 WGCI | urban contemporary | AAC | |
| WDCB Jazz | jazz | MP3 128 kbps | |
| WBEZ FM 91.5 | — | AAC 64 kbps | |
| WLS 94.7-FM Chicago, IL | classic hits | MP3 80 kbps | |
| Plus Radio '90 | 90s, devedesete | AAC+ 64 kbps | |
| Klove | gospel | AAC+ 64 kbps | |
| Plus Radio Narodna | folk, narodna | AAC+ 64 kbps | |
| Boys Town Live | dance radio | MP3 128 kbps | |
| WMVP 1000 AM - ESPN Chicago, IL | chicago sports, live sports | MP3 64 kbps | |
| Plus Radio Klinci | kids | AAC+ 80 kbps | |
| WFMT Classical AAC 128 | chicago, classical | AAC 130 kbps | |
| WRTE 90.7 FM | jazz | MP3 128 kbps | |
| Plus Radio Zabavna | pop, zabavna | AAC+ 96 kbps | |
| WBEZ-HD2 "Vocalo Stream" Chicago, IL | chicago, community radio | MP3 128 kbps | |
| CRIS Radio | — | MP3 128 kbps | |
| WFMT Classical AAC 64 | chicago, classical | AAC 130 kbps | |
| Inspiration 1390 | gospel | AAC | |
| WLUW 88.7 FM, Chicago Sound Alliance | independent radio, student radio | AAC+ 64 kbps | |
| mmRadio | 70s, 80s | MP3 320 kbps | |
| Cosy 103.7 | — | AAC+ 64 kbps | |
| WFMT Classical AAC 256 | chicago, classical | AAC 258 kbps | |
| Plus Radio Rock | rock | AAC+ 64 kbps | |
| RebelRadio.com Chicago | hard rock, heavy metal | MP3 256 kbps | |
| Plus Radio Hit | folk, pop folk | AAC+ 64 kbps | |
| Plus Radio Nostalgija | pop | AAC+ 64 kbps | |
| Radio Chrystusa Króla Chicago | — | MP3 160 kbps | |
| 93.9 WLIT-FM LITE FM | pop | AAC | |
| Ancient Faith Talk | — | AAC+ 96 kbps | |
| Vocalo Radio | urban contemporary | MP3 128 kbps | |
| Ancient Faith Music | — | AAC+ 96 kbps | |
| WJOB 1230 AM - 104.7 FM Hammond, IN | local talk, sports talk | MP3 128 kbps | |
| WSRB 106.3 FM Chicago's R&B - Lansing, IL | rap hiphop rnb, soul | AAC 64 kbps |
Campgrounds Near Wheeler
5 campgrounds found near Wheeler.
| 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 Wheeler
15 national parks and monuments found near Wheeler.
| 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 |
| 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 — Wheeler
Population and economic data over time (US Census / ACS estimates).
Population
Median Household Income
| Year | Population | Median Income |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 | 411 | $66,563 |
| 2015 | 347 | $53,839 |
| 2017 | 405 | $63,750 |
| 2019 | 313 | $31,065 |
| 2021 | 217 | — |
| 2023 | 135 | $36,184 |
Museums in Wheeler
| 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 | |
| PORTER COUNTY HERITAGE CORPORATION | GENERAL MUSEUM | 2194653595 | $256,446 | |
| LAKE COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM | HISTORIC PRESERVATION | COURTHOUSE SQUARE SUITE 205 | 2196623975 | $250,860 |
| NATIONAL CIVIL RIGHTS MUSEUM | GENERAL MUSEUM | 2199442661 | $1,499 | |
| AMERICAN MUSEUM OF MILITARY VEHICLES | GENERAL MUSEUM | |||
| BAILLY HOMESTEAD AND CHELLBERG FARM | GENERAL MUSEUM | HIGHWAY 20 & MINERAL SPRINGS ROAD | 2199267561 | |
| BEVERLY SHORES MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY | ART MUSEUM | 525 BROADWAY | 2198781517 | |
| DUNELAND HISTORICAL SOCIETY | HISTORIC PRESERVATION | 2199839715 | ||
| GARY CHILDREN'S MUSEUM | CHILDREN'S MUSEUM | |||
| GARY HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL SOCIETY | HISTORIC PRESERVATION | 2409 W 5TH AVE | ||
| GRIFFITH HISTORICAL SOCIETY | HISTORIC PRESERVATION | |||
| HEBRON HISTORICAL SOCIETY | HISTORIC PRESERVATION | 2919963192 | ||
| 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 | ||
| KANKAKEE VALLEY HISTORICAL SOCIETY | HISTORIC PRESERVATION | 2197662302 | ||
| LAKE COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY | HISTORIC PRESERVATION | 2196623975 | ||
| LAKE STATION HISTORICAL SOCIETY | HISTORIC PRESERVATION | |||
| MEMORIAL OPERA HOUSE FOUNDATION | HISTORIC PRESERVATION | 2195489137 | ||
| NORTHWEST INDIANA STEEL HERITAGE PROJECT | GENERAL MUSEUM | 2197877156 | ||
| NORTHWEST INDIANA WOMENS MUSEUM OF GARY INDIANA | SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY MUSEUM OR PLANETARIUM | |||
| PORTAGE COMMUNITY HISTORICAL SOCIETY | HISTORIC PRESERVATION | 5250 US HIGHWAY 6 | 2197628349 | |
| ROSS TOWNSHIP HISTORICAL SOCIETY | HISTORIC PRESERVATION | |||
| SOUTH LAKE COUNTY AGRICULTURAL HISTORICAL SOCIETY | HISTORIC PRESERVATION | |||
| THREE-CREEKS HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION | HISTORIC PRESERVATION | |||
| WESTCHESTER TOWNSHIP HISTORY MUSEUM | HISTORY MUSEUM | 2199839715 |
Libraries in Wheeler
| Name | Address | Staff | Annual Visits | Circulation | Collection | Programs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LAKE COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY | 1919 WEST 81ST AVENUE | 0.0 | 1,411,529 | |||
| PORTER COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM | 103 JEFFERSON STREET | 0.0 | 624,753 | |||
| WESTCHESTER PUBLIC LIBRARY | 200 WEST INDIANA AVENUE | 0.0 | 309,760 | |||
| CROWN POINT COMMUNITY PUBLIC LIBRARY | 122 NORTH MAIN STREET | 0.0 | 201,916 | |||
| LOWELL PUBLIC LIBRARY | 1505 EAST COMMERCIAL AVENUE | 0.0 | 83,753 |
Farmers Markets in Wheeler
| Name | Address | Season | Hours | Organic | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chesterton's European Market | 220 Broadway | May to October | Sat:8:00 am - 2:00 pm; | Yes | Visit |
| Crown Point Farmers Market | South Main Street | 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 | |
| Market of Life | 3510 W 15th Ave | 05/22/2020 to 07/24/2020 | Fri: 9:00 AM-12:00 PM; | ||
| 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 | |
| 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 | |
| Winfield Farmers Market | 10645 Randolph St. | 06/29/2016 to 09/14/2016 | Wed: 3:00 PM-7:00 PM; | Visit |
Golf Courses in Wheeler
1 golf courses within city radius — OpenStreetMap data
Duck Creek Golf Course
Breweries in Wheeler
| Name | Type | Address | Phone | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 | ||
| Porter Pub | Chesterton, IN, Beverages, Malt Beverages, Chesterton Brewers, Chesterton, IN | 212 Lincoln St | 2199265150 | |
| Shift Change Tap | Breweries & Brew Pubs, Cocktail Lounges, Bar & Grill Restaurants, Cocktail Lounge Restaurants | 295 Melton Rd | 2.20E+09 | |
| Sporting Life Liquors | Liquor Stores, IN>Brewery, Gary, IN, Shopping & Stores, Gary Liquor Stores | 4635 Melton Rd | 2199381075 |
Cell Towers in Wheeler
| Address | Structure Type | Height (ft) |
|---|---|---|
| 236 East County Road 600 North (61448) | GTOWER | 96 |
| 236 East County Road 600 North (61448) | GTOWER | 96 |
| 4024 E. 173rd Street | TOWER | 91 |
| 765-1 WEST 800 SOUTH ST (99243) | MTOWER | 78 |
| 765-1 WEST 800 SOUTH ST (99243) | MTOWER | 78 |
| 1931 LAKE SHORE CR (99242) | GTOWER | 75 |
| 1931 LAKE SHORE CR (99242) | GTOWER | 75 |
| 503 EAST MENTOR ST (111382) | MTOWER | 71 |
| 503 EAST MENTOR ST (111382) | MTOWER | 71 |
| (Kouts) 702 E. Indiana Ave Porter County | TOWER | 70 |
| 478 E. County Road 1000 N. (14770) | MTOWER | 61 |
| 478 E. County Road 1000 N. (14770) | MTOWER | 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 |
| 1450 WEST 180TH LANE (61456) | LTOWER | 59 |
| 1450 WEST 180TH LANE (61456) | LTOWER | 59 |
| 402 OAKLEY AVENUE (24655) | MTOWER | 58 |
| 402 OAKLEY AVENUE (24655) | MTOWER | 58 |
| 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 Wheeler
| Name | Address | Type | Active Firefighters | Volunteers | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Union Fire-Rescue | 551 W State RD 130 | Volunteer | 219-759-3321 |
Bridges in Wheeler
| Location | Type | Kind | Year Built | Length (ft) | Daily Traffic | Condition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stringer/Multi-beam | Steel | 1992 | 85 | 9,563 | P | |
| Girder/Floorbeam | Prestressed concrete | 2000 | 111 | 8,260 | G |
Amtrak Stations in Wheeler
1 Amtrak stations.
| Station | Address | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Gary, IN | 100 West 4th Avenue | BUS |
Superfund Sites Near Wheeler
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 Wheeler
50 airports within the area.
| Airport | IATA | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Chicago Midway International Airport | MDW | Large Airport |
| Chicago O'Hare International Airport | ORD | Large Airport |
| Chicago Executive Airport | PWK | Medium Airport |
| Gary/Chicago International Airport | GYY | Medium Airport |
| Greater Kankakee Airport | IKK | Medium Airport |
| Michigan City Municipal Airport | MGC | Medium Airport |
| Porter County Municipal Airport | VPZ | Medium Airport |
| Alley Oop Airport | — | 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 |
| Braden Farms Airport | — | Small Airport |
| Bult Field | — | Small Airport |
| Crown Point Airfield | — | Small Airport |
| Culp Airport | — | Small Airport |
| Culp Farms Airport | — | Small Airport |
| Dietchweiler Airport | — | 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 |
| Kankakee 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 |
| Neiner Airport | — | Small Airport |
Police Stations in Wheeler
13 police stations.
| Station | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Chesterton Police Department | 791 Broadway | |
| Gary Police Department | 555 Polk Street | |
| Hebron Police Station | 611 N Main Street | |
| Hobart Police Department | East 4th Street | |
| Lake County Sheriff's Department | 2293 North Main Street | |
| Lowell Police Department | 1333 East Commercial Avenue | |
| Merrillvilel Police Substation | 5474 Broadway | |
| Merrillville Police Department | 7820 Broadway | |
| 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 Wheeler
2 grocery stores.
| Store | Type | Address |
|---|---|---|
| Meijer 266 | Super Store | 6050 US Highway 6 |
| Walmart 2544 | Super Store | 6087 US Highway 6 |
Post Offices in Wheeler
1 post offices.
| Post Office | Address |
|---|---|
| Wheeler Post Office | 305 Railroad Avenue |
Treatment Centers in Wheeler
23 treatment centers.
| Center | Type | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Apostolic Youth and Family Servs Inc | Substance Abuse | 219-981-2937 |
| Awakenings Counseling Center | Substance Abuse | 219-791-9083 |
| Crown Counseling LLC | Substance Abuse | 219-663-6353 |
| Dockside Services Inc | Substance Abuse | 219-838-8001 |
| Fresh Start Counseling Services | Substance Abuse | 219-736-5990 |
| Fresh Start Counseling Services | Substance Abuse | 219-548-9400 |
| Heartland Recovery Center | Both | 219-690-7025 |
| Heartland Wellness Center | Substance Abuse | 219-690-7025 |
| 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 | Substance Abuse | 219-763-8112 |
| Northshore Health Centers | Both | 219-763-8112 |
| PACT Recovery Connection | Substance Abuse | 219-510-6501 |
| Pillars of Wellness | Both | 219-323-3311 |
| Porter Starke Services Inc | Mental Health | 219-531-3500 |
| Porter Starke Services Inc | Both | 219-762-9557 |
| Porter Starke Services Inc | Both | 219-531-3500 |
| Porter Starke Services Inc - Recovery Center/Valparaiso | Substance Abuse | 219-476-4676 |
| Regional Health Systems - Ridgewood | Both | 219-769-4005 |
| Regional Health Systems - Strawhun Center | Both | 219-769-4005 |
| Semoran Treatment Center - Metro Treatment of Gary LP | Substance Abuse | 219-938-4651 |
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Get ReportFrequently Asked Questions About Wheeler
What is the population of Wheeler?
Wheeler has a population of 135 residents and is located in Indiana. The population density is 51 people per square mile, spread across 2.7 square miles. The median age of residents is 64.0 years, which is older than the national median of 38.9 years. The population is 49.6% female and 50.4% male.
Is Wheeler expensive to live in?
Wheeler 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 $36,184, 52% below the national average of $75,149. The median home value is $143,200 (49% below the U.S. median). The home price-to-income ratio is 4x, indicating housing is reasonably affordable relative to local income levels.
Is Wheeler safe?
Wheeler is safer than the national average, with a violent crime rate of 163 per 100,000 compared to the U.S. rate of 380. Property crime occurs at a rate of 2,136 per 100,000 (above the national average). Overall, Wheeler receives a safety grade of F based on combined crime data.
What is the weather like in Wheeler?
Wheeler has a four-season climate with an average annual temperature of 51°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 40.3 inches, with 40.0 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median Air Quality Index (AQI) of 41.
How is the job market in Wheeler?
The job market in Wheeler is very strong, with unemployment at just 0.0% / well below the national rate 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 35 minutes, and 27.1% of workers work from home.
How much does housing cost in Wheeler?
The median home value in Wheeler is $143,200. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $263,902. The homeownership rate is 100.0%. The average annual property tax is $4,957.
How are the schools in Wheeler?
Schools in Wheeler score 6.6 out of 10 on standardized testing, near the national average. 8.1% of adults in Wheeler hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the national average of 33.7%. 89.6% have completed high school. 6.5% hold a graduate or professional degree.
How healthy is Wheeler?
The obesity rate in Wheeler is 41.4% (above the national rate of 32.1%). 17.8% of adults are smokers. 26.8% are physically inactive. 26.5% of residents report depression. 8.8% 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 Wheeler?
The average commute in Wheeler is 35 minutes, longer than the national average of 28 minutes. 72.9% of workers drive alone to work, and 27.1% work from home.
What are the demographics of Wheeler?
The racial and ethnic makeup of Wheeler is 100% White. 100% of residents speak only English at home. 5.2% of the population are military veterans. 18.7% of residents have a disability. 83.9% have health insurance coverage.
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