Elkhart County Economy  

About Elkhart...

Elkhart is located in Northern Indiana near the Indiana/Michigan border.  The community has a diverse population of approximately 51,000 and possesses Midwestern charm well-known to small communities.  Easing through its boundaries are both the St. Joseph and Elkhart Rivers providing a pleasing scenic view throughout the city.

While Elkhart is a relatively small midwestern city, its location provides access to the larger metropolitan areas of Chicago, Indianapolis, and South Bend -- famous as home to the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.  South Bend is only a short 30 minute drive.  Big city life is close at hand --  just 2 hours from Chicago and 3 hours from Indianapolis.

Go Back in Time...

Elkhart County delights in being home to one of the nation's largest Amish communities.  Driving through the rural countryside of Elkhart County can take visitors back in time to an era of century-old traditions and horse-drawn buggies.  Quiet people with a strong sense of community, the Amish value simple living and quiet, peaceful lives.  The countryside is rich in heritage and well-worth a leisurely drive.  If a self-guided tour through the Elkhart County area sounds interesting, contact the Elkhart County Convention & Visitors Bureau for more information. 

Economy

Elkhart County is recognized as the headquarters of the recreational vehicle (RV) industry and is home to RV manufacturers like Coachman, Starcraft, Jayco, Four Winds, Monaco, and Newmar.  RV and RV related industry represents the single largest economic segment of the local economy.  Manufactured housing and luxury van and SUV conversion production also comprise a key part of the economy.

Although Elkhart boasts a thriving manufacturing and RV industry, its diversity also makes it America's band instrument capital with the major instrument manufacturer Conn-Selmer calling it home.  In addition, Bayer AG (a German-based pharmaceutical giant) produces One-A-Day vitamins, Bactine, and Alka-Selzer here at the former Miles Laboratory site.

For more information on Elkhart economy, visit the Elkhart Chamber of Commerce.