Bent Oak, Elkhart,IN

If you're considering a move to the southeast part of Elkhart, IN, the Bent Oak neighborhood offers a wonderful blend of comfort and community spirit. Known for its peaceful streets and well-maintained homes, Bent Oak is ideal for families, retirees, and professionals alike. Residents enjoy a quiet, suburban atmosphere while still being within easy reach of various amenities. The neighborhood features beautiful tree-lined roads, friendly neighbors, and plenty of green spaces, making it an inviting spot to settle down and enjoy everyday life.

One of the standout attractions near Bent Oak is the popular Wellfield Botanic Gardens, a serene place perfect for weekend strolls and family outings. Nature lovers will appreciate the proximity to this beautifully landscaped area, which often hosts community events and seasonal festivals. Additionally, Bent Oak is just a short drive away from Downtown Elkhart, making it convenient for those who work or enjoy the vibrant cultural scene there. From boutique shops and local eateries to art galleries and live music venues, downtown offers plenty to explore after a day in the neighborhood.

For everyday conveniences, Bent Oak residents benefit from nearby shopping centers, grocery stores, and excellent schools, making it a practical choice for anyone relocating to Elkhart. The neighborhood is also close to major highways, providing straightforward access to neighboring cities and attractions. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or a community with easy access to urban amenities, Bent Oak strikes a lovely balance, offering both comfort and convenience in one of Elkhart’s welcoming corners.

27% of the Bent Oak population aged 16 and up are married, which is in line with national averages. This balance suggests a neighborhood with a healthy mix of families, couples, and single residents, creating a well-rounded community dynamic. You are likely to find a blend of stability and social variety, appealing to both long-term homeowners and younger professionals alike.

With only 27% 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.

Bent Oak 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 176 residents, Bent Oak is notably smaller than many other Elkhart 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 858 people per square mile, Bent Oak offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Elkhart 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 39, 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.

The Bent Oak crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing trends offer valuable insight into the accessibility and character of a neighborhood. In Bent Oak, the median home price is $171,833, 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 Bent Oak 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 $757, 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.

Education is a key factor in understanding the character and opportunities within a community like Bent Oak. School ratings here reflect important indicators such as academic performance, graduation outcomes, and standardized testing, while NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores offer a valuable national comparison to gauge how local schools measure up. Looking at the overall education level of residents in Bent Oak can also provide meaningful insight into the neighborhood’s focus on learning and long-term growth, helping families choose a community that aligns with their educational goals.