Fort Wayne, IN
Fort Wayne is a city in northeast Indiana with a population of approximately 270,000 residents. It is the second-largest city in Indiana and serves as a regional center for business, education, and healthcare. Fort Wayne is home to several universities and colleges, including Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne and the University of Saint Francis. The city also boasts a vibrant downtown area with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, as well as a variety of parks and recreational opportunities, including the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo and the Rivergreenway Trail. Fort Wayne's economy is primarily driven by manufacturing, healthcare, and education, and the city is known for its commitment to sustainability and environmental initiatives.
STATISTICS
INDICATORS
Region
Midwest
Population (2020)
264,169
The chart below displays this city's performance across all indicators vs. averages for the 25 cities
% Non-White Population
28.1
Median Income (2020)
$51,454
Average Home Value (2022)
$209,712
Average Annual Cost of Living
$23,668
Housing, transportation and energy costs as a percent of median income
Averages
City Data
CHALLENGES
Revitalization: Downtown Fort Wayne has undergone a major transformation in recent years with new developments, including the Ash Skyline Plaza and the Promenade Park, bringing new life to the city center.
Education: Fort Wayne is home to several well-regarded universities and colleges, including Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne and the University of Saint Francis.
Arts and Culture: Fort Wayne boasts an array of cultural offerings, including the Fort Wayne Museum of Art, the Fort Wayne Philharmonic, and the Embassy Theatre, a historic venue that hosts concerts, shows, and other events.
Outdoor Recreation: With over 80 parks and 100 miles of trails, Fort Wayne is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is also home to the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo, one of the best zoos in the country.
Strong Economy: Fort Wayne's economy is diverse and growing, with a mix of manufacturing, healthcare, and service industries. The city is home to major employers like Steel Dynamics, Parkview Health, and General Motors.
BRIGHT SPOTS
Poverty: Like many mid-sized cities, Fort Wayne struggles with poverty, with a poverty rate of 18.8% as of 2019.
Crime: While overall crime rates have been declining in recent years, Fort Wayne still has higher rates of violent crime than the national average.
Infrastructure: Fort Wayne's infrastructure is aging, with many roads, bridges, and other facilities in need of repair or replacement.
Transportation: Public transportation options are limited in Fort Wayne, with most residents relying on cars to get around. This can be a barrier for those without access to a vehicle.
Brain Drain: Despite its strong economy and educational offerings, Fort Wayne struggles with "brain drain" as many young professionals leave the city for larger cities or more opportunities elsewhere.