Bend of the River, Marion,IN

If you're considering a move to the southeast side of Marion, Indiana, the Bend of the River neighborhood offers a charming blend of suburban comfort and natural beauty. This area is perfect for families and individuals looking for a peaceful environment with plenty of green space. One of the standout features of Bend of the River is its proximity to the beautiful Marion Riverwalk, a scenic trail that winds along the river and is ideal for walking, jogging, or simply enjoying the outdoors. The neighborhood also benefits from nearby parks like Matter Park, which features playgrounds, picnic areas, and a lovely lake for fishing and kayaking, making it a great spot for weekend relaxation and family outings.

Living in Bend of the River means you’re just a short drive away from Downtown Marion, which is roughly 5 to 7 minutes northwest from the neighborhood. Downtown Marion offers a variety of dining options, local shops, and cultural attractions such as the Marion Civic Theatre and the Grant County Museum. This convenient access allows residents to enjoy the quiet charm of Bend of the River while still being close enough to city amenities for work, entertainment, and social gatherings. The neighborhood itself has a friendly, welcoming vibe that fosters a strong sense of community, making it an inviting place for newcomers to settle in.

In addition to its natural beauty and convenient location, Bend of the River boasts several local schools and community services that make it an attractive choice for families. The neighborhood has a mix of housing options, from cozy single-family homes to larger properties, catering to a range of preferences and budgets. Residents often appreciate the safety and tranquility of the area, paired with the easy access to essential services like grocery stores, healthcare facilities, and recreational centers. Whether you're looking for a quiet place to raise a family or a peaceful spot to enjoy your days, Bend of the River in Marion, IN, is definitely worth considering.

31% of the Bend of the River 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 31% 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.

Bend of the River 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 631 residents, Bend of the River is notably smaller than many other Marion 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 1,429 people per square mile, Bend of the River offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Marion 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 Bend of the River 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 Bend of the River, the median home price is $82,550, 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 Bend of the River 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 $772, 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.

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Bend of the River. 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 Bend of the River 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.