Cost of Living in Peru, IN
Population 10,835 · Indiana · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Peru's median household income of $46,180 is a meaningful share below the national figure, which shapes most of the downstream economic indicators — from housing affordability to the share of residents living below the poverty line (25% here). At 10.2%, the local unemployment rate runs well above the US figure, pointing to structural rather than cyclical labor-market issues.
Geographically, Peru is about 55 miles west of Fort Wayne, the nearest large metro. Median home values run roughly 51% lower than Fort Wayne's $170,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Peru
The median home value in Peru is $84,000 — 72% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $769/month, 41% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $46,180/year is 38% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 10.2%, above the national average of 4.8%. Indiana's top state income tax rate is 3.0% and the combined sales tax is 7.0%. Overall, Peru has a cost of living index of 40 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 60% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
🏫 Schools
NCES CCD 2019 — public school district data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Peru, IN?
Peru has a cost index of 40 (100 = national average). It is 60% below the national average.
What is average rent in Peru, IN?
The median gross rent in Peru is $769 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Peru?
The median home value in Peru is $84,000 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Peru?
The median household income in Peru is $46,180 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Peru, IN?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Peru is 7.0%. The Indiana state income tax top rate is 3.0%.
Is Peru, IN affordable?
Yes, Peru is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 40 — about 60% below the US national average of 100.
Peru at a Glance
- Population
- 10,835
- Median Income
- $46,180
- Home Value
- $84,000
- Median Rent
- $769/mo
- Unemployment
- 10.2%
- Sales Tax
- 7.0%
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Indiana Rankings
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