Hammond: The Data Profile (2026)

Hammond, Indiana, presents a distinct economic profile for the 2026 relocation market, characterized by a significant divergence between local income levels and the national median. With a population of 76,181, the city operates as a smaller metropolitan hub within the greater Chicago area. The primary statistical indicator for potential residents is the income-to-cost ratio: the median household income stands at $51,773, which is 30.6% lower than the US average of $74,580.

However, this income disparity is partially offset by a significantly lower cost of living structure. The educational attainment rate is 15.2% for bachelor's degrees or higher, nearly half the US average of 33.1%. This suggests a workforce heavily skewed toward trade and service sectors rather than knowledge economy roles. The statistical target demographic for Hammond in 2026 is the budget-conscious remote worker or the service-sector professional seeking affordability within commuting distance of Chicago, where the cost of living is vastly higher.

Cost of Living Analysis

The cost of living index for Hammond is anchored by housing affordability, which sits at 78.0—a full 22.0% below the national baseline. While income is lower, the purchasing power parity favors the resident compared to the national average. Groceries (90.0), transportation (90.0), and healthcare (92.5) all reflect modest savings of 7.5% to 10.0%.

For 2026, the utility costs remain competitive. Electricity averages 14.77 cents/kWh, undercutting the US average of 16.0 cents/kWh by approximately 7.7%. This creates a tangible reduction in monthly overhead for climate-controlled home offices.

Disposable Income Analysis:
A single earner making the median income of $51,773 (approx. $3,280 monthly after tax) retains roughly $760 in discretionary income after covering the single-person budget. For a dual-income household matching the median, the surplus rises significantly. However, the low median income ceiling limits high-end savings potential compared to national hubs.

Housing Market Deep Dive

The Hammond housing market is defined by a "Buyer's Advantage" in 2026. The median home price is projected at $185,000, which is 42.2% lower than the US average. This creates a massive gap in entry-level ownership costs. Renting remains a viable option, with a 1-bedroom unit averaging $1,050, though the premium for space (3-bedroom) is only $350 more, incentivizing family rentals.

The Housing Index of 78.0 confirms that real estate is the city's primary value proposition. Relative to the national curve, buying is mathematically superior to renting in the long term due to the low principal balance, assuming standard interest rates.

Buy vs. Rent Analysis:
With a median home price of $185,000, a standard 20% down payment ($37,000) results in a monthly mortgage (at 6.5% interest) of approximately $1,170. This is roughly equivalent to the cost of a 2-bedroom rental. However, with rent prices rising 3.5% annually and home values appreciating 4.1% annually, buying builds equity faster than renting absorbs income.

Economic & Job Market Outlook

The economic reality of Hammond in 2026 is heavily influenced by the "Post-Remote" landscape. While local unemployment is healthy at 3.7% (below the US average of 4.0%), the city functions largely as a bedroom community. The $51,773 median income indicates that high-paying corporate roles are not abundant locally.

Commute & RTO Impact:
For those requiring hybrid access to Chicago, the commute is the defining factor. The South Shore Line offers a direct rail link, but total transit time can reach 60-75 minutes to the Loop. Driving is volatile; peak traffic can extend the 25-mile drive to 90+ minutes. The low local cost of living is effectively a subsidy for the time and financial cost of commuting. Local industry relies on steel, manufacturing, and logistics, providing stability but limited upward mobility for white-collar professionals.

Quality of Life Audit

The Quality of Life metrics for Hammond reveal a trade-off: economic affordability is purchased with specific health and lifestyle risks. The overall Health Score of 74.4/100 is rated "Fair," driven by statistically significant risk factors. The obesity rate is 43.2%, drastically higher than the US average of 31.9%. Similarly, diabetes rates (16.2%) and smoking rates (19.7%) are elevated.

Air quality is a moderate concern. The AQI average of 52 falls into the "Moderate" category, meaning air quality is acceptable for most, but there may be a risk for those who are unusually sensitive to air pollution. PM2.5 levels hover around 10.5 µg/m³. Crime rates are essentially identical to the national average, debunking fears of it being a high-crime area, but also failing to offer a safety premium.

Safety & Schools:
Violent crime is 382/100k (US: 380/100k) and property crime is 2123/100k (US: 2,000/100k). These are statistically average. School ratings in Hammond generally lag behind suburban neighbors, with standardized test scores roughly 15-20% below state averages.

Weather Summary:
Hammond experiences a humid continental climate. Current conditions reflect the norm: 37.0°F with rain and snow mix. Winters are harsh with significant snowfall, while summers are hot and humid. The transition seasons are short.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Housing Affordability: At $185,000 median home price, ownership is accessible.
• Utility Savings: Electricity is 7.7% cheaper than the national average.
• Job Stability: Unemployment at 3.7% indicates a resilient local economy.

Cons:

• Income Ceiling: Median income is $51,773, significantly limiting wealth accumulation without external remote income.
• Health Risks: High rates of obesity (43.2%) and diabetes (16.2%) suggest environmental or cultural health challenges.
• Commute Cost: Proximity to Chicago is a double-edged sword; the commute is expensive and time-consuming.

Final Recommendation:
Hammond is a Strong Buy for Remote Workers earning above the local median. If you bring a salary of $80,000+ into the local economy, your purchasing power is exceptional. It is a Hold for Local Hires unless you are in the manufacturing/logistics sectors. It is a Pass for Health-Focused Buyers who prioritize walkability and lower health risk factors.

FAQs

1. What salary is needed to live comfortably in Hammond in 2026?
For a single person, a salary of $60,000 allows for comfortable living, savings, and discretionary spending. For a family, $95,000 is recommended to maintain a standard deviation above the local median.

2. How does Hammond value compare to neighboring Indiana cities?
Hammond offers a 22.0% discount on housing compared to the US average, making it cheaper than Gary but slightly more expensive than some rural Indiana towns. Its value lies in the transit link to Chicago.

3. Are the safety stats reliable?
Yes. The data indicates 382 violent crimes and 2123 property crimes per 100k people. These are statistically average. It is safer than major metros but less safe than quiet suburbs.

4. What is the best timing for relocation?
The current market (Q1 2026) shows stable inventory. However, the best time to buy is typically late winter (Feb-March) to avoid the spring bidding rush. Rents are generally static year-round.