Bloomington Photo

Waterman, Bloomington,IN

Neighborhood Data
Proximitii Score score
? /100
Amenities Score Amenities Score Locked
Transit Score Transit & Commute Score Locked
Schools Score Schools Score Locked
Health & Safety Score Health & Safety Score Locked
City Crime Score Crime (City) Score Locked
Location Crime Score Crime (Location) Score Locked
Economy Score Economy Score Locked
Housing Score Housing Score Locked

Waterman, situated in the north east part of Bloomington, IN, is a charming neighborhood that offers a wonderful blend of suburban comfort and convenient city access. For those considering a move, Waterman stands out with its peaceful streets lined with mature trees and well-maintained homes. The neighborhood radiates a welcoming vibe, perfect for families, retirees, or young professionals looking for a quiet retreat without straying too far from the energy of the city. With a strong sense of community and friendly neighbors, Waterman makes it easy to feel at home from day one.

One of the key attractions of Waterman is its proximity to several parks and recreational areas, offering residents plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Griffy Lake Nature Preserve, just a short drive away, is a favorite spot for hiking, fishing, and picnicking, providing a perfect escape into nature. Additionally, the neighborhood is close to local grocery stores, cafes, and restaurants, making everyday errands and dining out both simple and enjoyable. For families, there are highly rated schools nearby, enhancing the appeal for those with children. With plenty of green space and community amenities, Waterman encourages a balanced, healthy lifestyle.

Despite its tranquil feel, Waterman is conveniently located just a few miles north east of Downtown Bloomington, ensuring residents can easily access the vibrant city center. Whether you're heading out for a night on the town, attending an event at Indiana University, or simply running errands, Downtown Bloomington’s shops, theaters, and cultural venues are within a short drive. This proximity allows Waterman residents to enjoy the best of both worlds – a serene neighborhood to unwind in and a lively city hub just minutes away. For anyone relocating to Bloomington, Waterman offers an ideal combination of comfort, convenience, and community spirit.

Community Snapshot

Population 82
Density (People/sqml.) 1,874
Median Age 34.3
Married Couples
33%
33% of the population of Waterman aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
26%
26% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

About 33% of the Waterman population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 26% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Age Breakdown

Waterman neighborhood age breakdown chart

Waterman demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 82 residents, Waterman is notably smaller than many other Bloomington neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

With a lower than average population density of 1,874 people per square mile, Waterman offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Bloomington neighborhoods. This often means quieter streets, less congestion, and a relaxed atmosphere — all while still providing access to the amenities and conveniences of city living.

With an average age of 34, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

Crime in Waterman

Crime Safety Index Score Locked 1 2 3 4 5

 

Total Crime Incidents
Try for free within 1 mile
Score Locked per 100k people

Types of Crime

Waterman neighborhood age breakdown chart

Waterman Crime Map

The Waterman crime map provides an in-depth look at crime rates throughout the community, using block group data to reveal both safer pockets and places with more frequent incidents. By visualizing these patterns, the crime map helps residents and newcomers alike better understand the dynamics of neighborhood safety. It’s worth noting that higher-crime areas on the map aren’t always indicative of danger — spots near busy commercial centers, transportation hubs, or popular attractions may naturally show more reports due to increased activity.

Housing

? /10
Home Price $166,733
Median Rent $1,038
People/Household 2.1

Home Price Breakdown

Waterman neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 56% Own 44%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 44% After 2010 56%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year YoY data

 

Housing trends offer valuable insight into the accessibility and character of a neighborhood. In Waterman, the median home price is $166,733, which is less than many surrounding areas. This affordability makes it an attractive option for first-time buyers, young families, or anyone looking to enter the housing market without a significant financial barrier. Looking at appreciation rates and past market trends in Waterman can offer valuable insight into the neighborhood’s investment potential. Understanding how home values have changed over time helps buyers gauge future growth, assess long-term stability, and make more informed real estate decisions.

The median rent is around $1,038, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

BloomingTea
Coffee Shop
min.
min.
The Inkwell
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

Classic Bowling Lanes
Bowling Alley
min.
min.
Upland Brewing Company
Attraction
min.
min.

Food & Drink

Hinkle's Hamburgers
Fast Food
min.
min.
Cresent Donuts
Fast Food
min.
min.

Groceries

Rainbow Bakery
Bakery
min.
min.
Bloomingfoods Market & Deli Near West Side
Grocery Store
min.
min.

Parks

Playground
Playground
min.
min.
Crestmont Park
Park
min.
min.

Shops

Kleindorfer's Hardware and Variety Store
Home Improvement
min.
min.
Kleindorfer's Hardware and Variety Store
Home Improvement
min.
min.

Getting Around

Transit Stops

Bus Stop
Bus Stop
min.
min.
Bloomington Transit Center (Bloomington, IN)
Bus Stop
min.
min.

Transit Stations

Bloomington Transit Center
Bus Station
min.
min.
4th and Washington Bus Terminal
Bus Station
min.
min.

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Bloomington Community Based Outpatient Clinic
Clinic
min.
min.
Premier Healthcare
Clinic
min.
min.

Health Care

Southern Indiana Pediatrics
Doctor
min.
min.
Family Allergy & Asthma
Doctor
min.
min.

Safety

Fire Station
Fire Station
min.
min.
Bloomington Fire Dept
Fire Station
min.
min.

Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Lighthouse Christian Academy
1201 W That Rd, Bloomington, IN
High School PK - 12 School Score
Fairview Elementary School
627 W 8Th St, Bloomington, IN
Elementary School PK - 6 School Score
Arlington Heights Elementary Sch
700 W Parrish Rd, Bloomington, IN
Elementary School PK - 6 School Score
Tri-North Middle School
1000 W 15Th St, Bloomington, IN
Elementary School 7 - 8 School Score
Bloomington High School South
1965 S Walnut St, Bloomington, IN
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Excel Center - Bloomington
2088 Liberty Drive, Bloomington, IN
High School 11 - 11 School Score
Bloomington Graduation School
705 W Coolidge Dr, Bloomington, IN
High School 9 - 12 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Waterman. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in Waterman offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.

Economy

? /10
Income Per Capita $27,502
Household Income $44,354
Unemployment 2.4%

Income Breakdown

Waterman Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

Industry Employed
Agriculture & Mining Unlock
Construction Unlock
Manufacturing Unlock
Wholesale & Retail Unlock
Transportation & Warehousing Unlock
Information Unlock
Finance & Insurance Unlock

Local economic factors play a key role in shaping the character and accessibility of a neighborhood, influencing everything from lifestyle to opportunity. Household incomes in Waterman average around $44,354, which is lower than average. This affordability contributes to a more accessible lifestyle, making it an appealing choice for first-time homeowners, young families, and those looking to enjoy the benefits of the area without a high price tag.

The strength of a neighborhood’s local economy is often reflected in its employment landscape, shaping daily life and long-term stability for residents. In Waterman, the unemployment rate is just 2%, indicating a strong and resilient community with steady economic growth, active local businesses, and a high quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the overall lifestyle like?

Waterman in Bloomington, IN offers a balanced lifestyle that blends suburban comfort with access to urban amenities. Residents enjoy peaceful tree-lined streets and spacious yards, making it ideal for families and professionals. The neighborhood's proximity to parks like the Cascades Park provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, and fishing, contributing to a relaxed, nature-oriented lifestyle.

How far is Downtown?

Downtown Bloomington is approximately 3 miles east of Waterman, making it a quick 10-minute drive or a convenient bike ride away. This close proximity allows residents easy access to downtown’s vibrant arts scene, restaurants like the iconic FARM Bloomington, and cultural attractions including the Buskirk-Chumley Theater. It’s close enough to enjoy the city buzz while living in a quieter neighborhood.

Are there any community events or local gatherings throughout the year?

Yes, Waterman residents often participate in community events connected to the wider Bloomington area. The neighborhood benefits from nearby events such as the Bloomington Farmers' Market held downtown every Saturday and seasonal festivals like the Lotus World Music & Arts Festival. Additionally, local parks sometimes host outdoor movie nights and family-friendly activities, fostering a strong sense of community engagement throughout the year.

Compare Nearby Neighborhoods

Location Overall Amenities Health Transit Schools Housing Economy Crime
Unlock to see 82 55 73 79 40 82 43 62
Unlock to see 75 61 40 43 43 30 72 55
Unlock to see 68 35 87 85 56 57 50 36
Waterman Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe
Unlock to see 49 39 88 35 56 67 69 85
Unlock to see 36 73 74 86 56 57 59 66
Unlock to see 25 42 42 84 57 33 57 42

Other Neighborhoods in Bloomington, IN