Is Garrett Safe, Pros and cons of living in Garrett
Garrett, Indiana, offers a glimpse into small-town American life, blending a quiet atmosphere with accessible amenities. This community, nestled in DeKalb County, provides a unique living experience for those seeking a change of pace from larger urban centers. Its appeal lies in its grounded community spirit and the practicalities of daily life within its limits.
The town’s character is shaped by its residents and the local environment, offering a distinct setting for families and individuals alike. Understanding the various facets of life in Garrett, from its safety and economic landscape to its educational opportunities and climate, is key for anyone considering making this Indiana town their home.
Is it Safe to Live in Garrett?
Garrett presents a generally safe environment for its residents, with crime rates that are lower than many other communities nationwide. The town’s combined violent and property crime rate is 4 per 1,000 residents, which is lower than 74% of communities across America (according to NeighborhoodScout’s analysis of FBI crime data). This suggests a relatively secure atmosphere for those living within the city limits.
Further analysis indicates that while the violent crime rate is about average for communities of similar size, the property crime rate in Garrett is notably below average compared to national figures. This means that offenses like burglary, larceny, arson, and motor vehicle theft are less common in Garrett than in most other U.S. communities (according to NeighborhoodScout’s analysis of FBI crime data). Residents generally perceive the southeast part of the city as the safest area, with property crime rates varying by neighborhood (according to CrimeGrade.org).
Violent Crime Rates
The chance of becoming a victim of violent crime in Garrett is approximately one in 952, which is considered about average for communities across the nation (according to NeighborhoodScout). This includes crimes such as aggravated assault, murder, and rape.
Property Crime Rates
Property crime in Garrett is below the national average, with a rate of 10.34 per 1,000 residents (according to CrimeGrade.org). This indicates a lower likelihood of experiencing property-related offenses compared to many other U.S. cities.
Housing and Cost of Living
Garrett provides a cost of living that is notably lower than both the state and national averages, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. The overall cost of living in Garrett is 13% lower than the national average, with housing costs being significantly more affordable (according to AreaVibes).
This affordability extends to both homeownership and rental markets. The median home value in Garrett is $187,134 as of March 31, 2026, which has seen a 5.4% increase over the past year (according to Zillow). The median listing price for homes is around $204,995 (according to Realtor.com®).
Housing Costs
For those looking to buy, the median home value in Garrett is $154,200 (according to Niche), which is considerably lower than the national median of $332,700 (according to Data USA). Homeownership is high, with 79.5% of housing units occupied by their owners (according to Data USA).
Rental costs are also competitive, with the median gross rent in Garrett being $858 per month (according to Point2Homes). For apartments, the average rent is $1,025 as of May 2026, which is 47% lower than the national average (according to Zumper).
Cost of Living Index
The overall cost of living in Garrett is 3% lower than the Indiana average and 13% lower than the national average (according to AreaVibes). This is largely driven by housing expenses, which are 38% lower than the national average (according to AreaVibes).
Job Market and Economy
Garrett’s economy is supported by a diverse range of industries, with manufacturing, retail trade, and healthcare and social assistance being the primary sectors employing its residents (according to Data USA). The job market has seen modest growth, with employment increasing by 1.28% from 2023 to 2024 (according to Data USA).
The average annual salary in Garrett is approximately $49,530, with most salaries ranging between $34,163 and $60,762 (according to ZipRecruiter). The median household income in Garrett is $64,179 (according to Point2Homes), with a poverty rate of 15.26% (according to Garrett Population 2026).
Major Employers
Key industries providing employment in Garrett include manufacturing, retail trade, and healthcare and social assistance (according to Data USA). While specific major employers are not detailed in the provided search results, these sectors indicate the primary areas of economic activity within the town.
Unemployment Rate
The employment rate in Garrett is 95.4%, with a workforce of 3,486 residents (according to Point2Homes). The Bureau of Labor Statistics tracks unemployment rates for Indiana, which can provide broader context for the regional job market, though specific current rates for Garrett are not directly available in the provided data.
Climate and Environment
Garrett experiences distinct seasonal weather patterns, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. The temperature typically ranges from 19°F to 83°F throughout the year, rarely dropping below 1°F or exceeding 91°F (according to AccuWeather). The town is characterized by partly cloudy conditions year-round.
Precipitation is distributed throughout the year, with a wetter season lasting from late March to early October. The month with the most wet days is June, averaging 10.9 days with at least 0.04 inches of precipitation. Conversely, February sees the fewest wet days, with an average of 5.1 days (according to AccuWeather).
Average Temperatures
The warm season in Garrett spans from late May to mid-September, with average daily high temperatures exceeding 73°F. July is the hottest month, with average highs around 83°F and lows of 63°F. The cold season lasts from late November to early March, with average daily high temperatures below 43°F. January is the coldest month, with average lows of 20°F and highs of 33°F (according to AccuWeather).
Precipitation
Garrett receives an average annual precipitation of 38.00 inches (according to NOAA Climate Normals 1991-2020 for Garrett, Indiana). The majority of this precipitation falls during the warmer months, contributing to the wetter season.
Education and Demographics
Garrett is served by the Garrett-Keyser-Butler Community School District, which is rated as above average (according to Niche). The district serves approximately 1,657 students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade, with a student-teacher ratio of 13 to 1 (according to Niche).
The town’s population is predominantly White, making up 94% of residents (according to Point2Homes). The median age in Garrett is 39, with a relatively even distribution across age groups, though the 45-64 bracket represents the largest segment of the population (according to Point2Homes).
School Ratings
Garrett High School receives a B grade overall, with a rating of 4.26 out of 5 stars based on 84 reviews (according to Niche). Garrett Middle School holds a B-minus grade, and J.E. Ober Elementary School has a C+ grade (according to Niche).
Demographics
The population of Garrett is 6,642 residents, with 48.8% male and 51.2% female (according to Point2Homes). The median age is 39.4 years (according to Garrett Population 2026). U.S.-born citizens represent 97% of the population (according to Point2Homes).
Pros and Cons of Living in Garrett
Garrett offers a distinct lifestyle with several advantages, including a lower cost of living and a generally safe environment. The median home value is significantly below the national average, making homeownership more accessible (according to Niche). The town’s crime rates are also lower than many comparable communities across the U.S. (according to NeighborhoodScout).
However, like any town, Garrett has its drawbacks. The job market, while stable, may not offer the same breadth of opportunities as larger metropolitan areas. Some residents note that the downtown area could benefit from more development, such as additional shops and cafes, to enhance its vibrancy (according to Niche reviews).