Hammond
The Region's working heart
Hammond is one of Lake County's largest cities and a community with deep industrial roots. Today it's reinventing itself with new dining, entertainment, and a proud working-class identity that defines "The Region."
- Town
- Hammond
- Population
- ~78,000
- Founded
- 1884
- Vibe
- Industrial heritage, resilient community, authentic
What makes Hammond worth knowing
Wolf Lake Memorial Park
A beautiful park on the shore of Wolf Lake with trails, picnic areas, and waterfront views stretching into Illinois.
Hessville Neighborhood
A tight-knit Hammond neighborhood with its own identity, local restaurants, and community pride.
Erie-Lackawanna Trail Terminus
Hammond marks one end of the Erie-Lackawanna Trail, connecting the city to Crown Point and beyond.
GGC EATERY
A new-school dining concept bringing fresh energy to Hammond's evolving food scene.
What makes Hammond a great place to call home
Most affordable housing in Lake County with excellent South Shore Line commuter rail access to Chicago
Wolf Lake Memorial Park with a beach, trails, fishing, and a waterpark on the Indiana-Illinois border
Deep industrial roots and a proud working-class identity with ongoing revitalization and new dining options
Parks and outdoor spaces in Hammond
Hammond offers several parks and green spaces for outdoor recreation. Wolf Lake Memorial Park is a 400-plus-acre outdoor recreation area on the Indiana-Illinois border with a beach, waterpark, walking and biking trails, fishing spots, and a concert pavilion. The Erie-Lackawanna Trail has its terminus in Hammond, connecting the city to Crown Point and beyond.
Getting around Hammond
Hammond is located along I-80/94 and I-65 with excellent South Shore Line commuter rail access to Millennium Station in downtown Chicago. It is approximately 24 miles from downtown Chicago, about a 33 to 41 minute drive depending on traffic. The city has the closest proximity to Chicago of any Lake County community.
Schools in Hammond
Hammond is served by the School City of Hammond. Contact the school district for the most current information on school ratings and programs.
What's on the calendar in Hammond
Buying in Hammond
Hammond offers some of the most affordable housing in Lake County. The city has a wide range of properties from historic homes near the lake to newer developments in outlying areas. For buyers who value affordability and proximity to Chicago — Hammond has excellent commuter rail access — this is a strong option. The city's ongoing revitalization adds long-term value potential.
Talk to Liz about Hammond
Frequently asked questions about Hammond
Is Hammond a good place to live?
Hammond is one of the largest cities in Lake County, Indiana. It offers a resilient community with deep industrial roots, Wolf Lake Memorial Park, and the most affordable housing in the county with excellent commuter rail access to Chicago.
What schools are in Hammond?
Contact the local school district for the most current information on schools in Hammond.
How far is Hammond from Chicago?
Hammond, Indiana is approximately 24 miles from downtown Chicago, about a 33 to 41 minute drive depending on traffic.
What is there to do in Hammond?
Hammond offers parks, local dining, and community events throughout the year. Highlights include Wolf Lake Memorial Park, the Erie-Lackawanna Trail terminus, and the Hessville neighborhood.
Is Hammond family-friendly?
Yes. Hammond is known for its affordable housing, lakefront parks, and strong sense of community pride.