Moving to Kokomo, Indiana: A Comprehensive Relocation Guide

Considering moving to Kokomo, Indiana? This north-central Indiana city of approximately 60,000 residents offers manufacturing heritage and affordable living. Here’s your complete guide to relocating to Kokomo in 2025.

Demographic Profile to Consider If Moving to Kokomo:

Kokomo, the Howard County seat, sits in north-central Indiana approximately 60 miles north of Indianapolis. The city’s population of approximately 60,000 reflects a median age of 40 years. Named after Miami Chief Ma-Ko-Ko-Mo, Kokomo benefited from the Indiana Gas Boom of the 1880s, earning designation as the “City of Firsts” for numerous industrial and technological innovations. Elwood Haynes test-drove an early automobile in Kokomo on July 4, 1894. The community features traditional Midwestern character with mix of historic and modern neighborhoods. Kokomo’s heritage includes automotive manufacturing, glass production, and diverse industry.

Cost of Living to Consider If Moving to Kokomo:

Kokomo offers affordable living with median household income around $54,000. Housing costs remain very accessible, with median home values around $126,500. The poverty rate of approximately 15 percent reflects economic transitions from manufacturing-dependent economy. However, overall living expenses support comfortable middle-class lifestyles for working families. Property taxes, utilities, and daily costs remain well below metropolitan areas. The combination of affordability and small-city amenities makes Kokomo attractive for families, retirees, and workers in manufacturing and healthcare sectors seeking homeownership and value.

Economy and Job Market:

Kokomo’s economy centers on automotive manufacturing with significant Stellantis (formerly Chrysler) operations producing transmissions and components. The StarPlus Energy joint venture between Stellantis and Samsung SDI is constructing a $2.5 billion electric vehicle battery gigafactory scheduled for 2025 production, creating 1,400 new jobs. This represents transformational investment for regional economy. Healthcare employs significant workforce through Ascension St. Vincent Kokomo and Community Howard Regional Health. Manufacturing represents nearly 25 percent of employment, higher than state and national averages. Unemployment fluctuates with manufacturing cycles but has improved. The new battery plant positions Kokomo for growth in electric vehicle supply chain.

Education:

Kokomo School Corporation and Western School Corporation serve area students through elementary schools, middle schools, and Kokomo High School. The districts focus on career and technical education aligned with regional manufacturing needs. Indiana University Kokomo provides higher education with programs emphasizing regional workforce development, nursing, and business. Ivy Tech Community College offers vocational training and associate degrees. Educational programs support manufacturing careers and healthcare professions. The educational infrastructure prepares students for local employment opportunities while providing pathways to four-year degrees.

Recreation and Lifestyle:

Kokomo offers numerous parks and recreational facilities throughout the city. Highland Park features Kokomo Beach Family Aquatic Center. Kokomo Opalescent Glass, operating since 1888, continues producing stained glass and offers tours. The Elwood Haynes Museum celebrates the city’s automotive heritage. The Seiberling Mansion showcases Victorian architecture. Kokomo Automotive Museum displays local automotive history. The city hosts festivals and community events celebrating its heritage. Kokomo Civic Theatre provides performing arts. Numerous golf courses and trails support outdoor recreation. The community maintains family-oriented character with traditional values.

Healthcare and Services:

Ascension St. Vincent Kokomo and Community Howard Regional Health provide comprehensive medical services including emergency care, surgery, cardiac care, and specialty medicine. The healthcare systems ensure access to quality medical services throughout Howard County. Primary care practices and outpatient facilities support community health. Healthcare quality meets regional standards. The sector employs significant workforce while anchoring service economy. Proximity to Indianapolis provides access to academic medical centers for specialized treatments when needed.

Transportation:

U.S. Route 31 runs through Kokomo, providing north-south connectivity between Indianapolis and South Bend. State Road 26 offers east-west access. The city’s central location in north-central Indiana supports convenient regional travel. Kokomo Municipal Airport serves general aviation. Kokomo lacks public transit, with residents relying on personal vehicles. The highway network efficiently connects Kokomo to Indianapolis (approximately one hour), Lafayette, and Fort Wayne. The city’s position supports commuting and freight movement for manufacturing operations.

Conclusion:

Moving to Kokomo in 2025 provides affordable north-central Indiana living anchored by transformational automotive manufacturing investment through the new electric vehicle battery plant. The combination of accessible housing, manufacturing employment opportunities, small-city character, and strategic investment in future industries makes Kokomo appealing for families and skilled workers seeking value and economic growth potential in Howard County.