South Bend is the fourth largest city in Indiana and generally considered the cultural and economic center of the northern part of the state. Its location along the St. Joseph River makes it picturesque, while its proximity to the University of Notre Dame keeps its economy flourishing. Kiplinger’s Personal Finance dubbed South Bend eighth in its list of the “Ten Best Cities for Cheapskates” in 2012, no doubt because of its large student population. But for being thrifty, South Bend loses nothing in charm. Its historic Polish Catholic influence is still felt, particularly on Dyngus Day and Fat Tuesday, which are as widely celebrated as Easter and the 4^th of July. Students and young professionals also love the thriving music scene in South Bend, which hosts annual Reggae, Country, Contemporary Christian, and locals-only music festivals that draw tens of thousands of fans to the area. 

With Notre Dame as the city’s largest single employer, students are guaranteed to find housing options to suit their needs.

East Bank Village is a popular choice for students, and a downtown urban neighborhood in the best sense of the term. With everything from historic districts and city parks to new lofts and an artificial whitewater course, East Bank is eclectic, affordable, and poised for greater growth.

The new Eddy Street Commons on the northeast side of town sits directly across from Notre Dame, as well as next to a slew of retail shops and office spaces. Students living in Eddy Street have the luxury of living near to class and South Bend’s best options in dining and shopping. 

Harter Heights, formerly Notre Dame’s nearest satellite community, is near enough to Eddy Street Commons to enjoy the perks of the city, but just far enough to get a break from urban life. Campus is still an easy walk away and architecture varies from historic to modern in this desirable northside neighborhood.