Homes for RV Industry Employees in Elkhart County
Elkhart County is the RV manufacturing capital of the world, employing thousands of people across companies like Jayco, Grand Design RV, Forest River, and dozens of suppliers. This guide covers the best neighborhoods and communities for RV industry employees, with short commutes, affordable housing, and family-friendly amenities.
Major RV employers in Elkhart County
- Jayco - Middlebury
- Grand Design RV - Middlebury
- Forest River - Elkhart and surrounding areas
- Newmar - Nappanee
- Rev Recreation Group - Decatur (near Elkhart)
- Dozens of component suppliers - Throughout Elkhart County
Best communities for RV industry employees
Middlebury
Middlebury is the top choice for employees at Jayco and Grand Design RV, both located in town. The community offers affordable housing ($200,000-$350,000), the Middlebury Community Schools district (Northridge High School), and the Pumpkinvine Nature Trail. Downtown Middlebury offers walkable small-town living, while the rural area offers homes on acreage.
Elkhart
Elkhart is the largest city in the county and home to Forest River and many suppliers. Housing is affordable ($120,000-$280,000) with Elkhart Community Schools and the Elkhart Area Career Center. The city offers urban amenities along the St. Joseph and Elkhart rivers.
Goshen
Goshen is the county seat with a vibrant downtown, Goshen College, and the Maple City Greenway trail system. It is 10 minutes from Elkhart and 15 minutes from Middlebury. Goshen Community Schools serve the city. Housing ranges from $200,000 for historic homes near downtown to $350,000 for newer construction on the south side.
Concord Township (between Elkhart and Goshen)
The Concord area offers suburban living between Elkhart and Goshen, with Concord Community Schools and homes from $180,000 to $350,000. It is convenient to employers in both cities.
Commute times to major RV plants
- Middlebury to Jayco/Grand Design - 5-10 minutes
- Goshen to Middlebury - 15 minutes
- Elkhart to Middlebury - 20 minutes
- Goshen to Elkhart - 10 minutes
- Concord to Elkhart - 10 minutes
- Concord to Goshen - 10 minutes
Home prices for RV industry employees
Elkhart County offers affordable housing options across all price points:
- Entry-level ($100,000-$200,000) - Affordable homes in Elkhart and established areas of Goshen
- Mid-range ($200,000-$350,000) - Newer construction in Middlebury, Goshen south side, and Concord
- Larger homes ($250,000-$450,000) - Rural properties with acreage in Middlebury and surrounding areas
Indiana property tax advantage
Indiana caps property taxes at 1% of assessed value for owner-occupied homes with the homestead deduction. This makes homeownership more affordable and predictable than in Michigan, where property taxes are based on a millage system. Compare Indiana vs Michigan taxes and costs
Things to do in Elkhart County
- Pumpkinvine Nature Trail - Multi-use trail connecting Middlebury, Goshen, and Shipshewana
- Downtown Goshen - Shops, restaurants, Goshen Theater, farmers market
- Essenhaus - Regional Amish-style dining destination in Middlebury
- Shipshewana - Amish community with auctions, shops, and events (15 minutes from Middlebury)
- Elkhart River and St. Joseph River - Fishing, kayaking, and riverfront recreation
Frequently asked questions about RV industry housing
Where should RV industry employees live in Elkhart County?
Middlebury is ideal for Jayco and Grand Design employees. Elkhart is best for Forest River and supplier employees. Goshen offers a vibrant downtown and central location. Concord Township is convenient to both Elkhart and Goshent employers.
How much does a home cost near RV factories in Elkhart County?
Homes near RV factories range from $100,000 for entry-level homes in Elkhart to $350,000 for newer construction in Middlebury and Goshen. Rural properties with acreage range from $250,000 to $450,000.
What school districts serve Elkhart County?
Multiple districts serve the county: Elkhart Community Schools, Goshen Community Schools, Middlebury Community Schools (Northridge High School), and Concord Community Schools. Middlebury and Concord are well-regarded for academics.
How far is Middlebury from Elkhart?
Middlebury is about 20 minutes from Elkhart and 15 minutes from Goshen. The Indiana Toll Road (I-80/90) provides quick access across the county.
What is the Pumpkinvine Nature Trail?
The Pumpkinvine Nature Trail is a popular multi-use trail connecting Middlebury to Goshen and Shipshewana, running through scenic Elkhart County countryside. It is used for biking, walking, and running.
Related guides
Working in the RV industry? Find your home.
Call or text Caleb Worm at 574-240-WORM. I help RV industry employees find homes near Jayco, Grand Design, Forest River, and employers across Elkhart County.