Kokomo IN

Nestled in the heart of Indiana, Kokomo is a welcoming blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Known as the “City of Firsts” for its history of innovation and invention, Kokomo proudly celebrates its roots while embracing progress. From scenic parks and vibrant festivals to rich automotive heritage and a strong sense of community, this city offers a laid-back lifestyle with plenty to explore. Whether you're strolling along Heritage Trail, soaking in live music downtown, or discovering local eats, Kokomo invites you to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures of Midwest living.

• Population: ~59,000
• Weather: Four distinct seasons; warm summers (70-85°F), cold winters (20-35°F), with colorful springs and falls.
• Places To Visit: Seiberling Mansion, Kokomo Opalescent Glass Factory, Wildcat Creek Walk of Excellence, Jackson Morrow Park, Kokomo Automotive Museum.
• Top Activities: Biking the trails, visiting local art galleries, attending the Haynes Apperson Festival, discovering local shops downtown, exploring family-friendly events year-round.
• Famous Food: Breaded pork tenderloin sandwiches, homestyle pies from local diners, award-winning BBQ, and refreshing scoops from local ice cream spots like Scoops Ice Cream.

Kokomo, Indiana, often referred to as the “City of Firsts” for its rich history in automotive innovation, has a diverse job market rooted in advanced manufacturing, healthcare, education, and public service. As industries evolve, the city continues to offer solid career paths for skilled professionals and entry-level workers alike. Here are the top five jobs in Kokomo, based on demand, salary, and long-term growth potential.

Top 5 Jobs in Kokomo, IN

Kokomo, Indiana may be a small city, but it’s full of charm, chill vibes, and hidden gems where students can kick back, relax, and have a little fun. Whether you're from IU Kokomo or just looking for cool places to hang with friends, Kokomo has more to offer than you might think.

Foster Park – Located in the heart of downtown, Foster Park is a peaceful spot with open green spaces, walking trails, and a beautiful fountain. It's the perfect place to clear your head, have a quick study break, or toss a frisbee with friends on a sunny day.

Kokomo Municipal Stadium – Catch a Kokomo Jackrabbits baseball game in the summer. It’s affordable, energetic, and a great way to enjoy the community while snacking on hot dogs and cheering with the crowd.

Rhum Academy of Music’s Live Shows – For students who love music, Rhum Academy often hosts open-mic nights and local band performances. It’s a cozy, laid-back vibe where you can discover fresh talent or show off your own.

Kokomo Beach Family Aquatic Center – When it’s hot out, this is the go-to spot to cool down. Floating around in the lazy river with friends or racing down water slides is a great way to kick back after exams.

Half Moon Restaurant & Brewery – While the brewery is more for the 21+ crowd, this local spot offers tasty food and a relaxed setting. Grab some wings or share a giant pretzel with friends—it's casual and welcoming for everyone.

American Dream Hi-Fi – A fun, quirky record store that doubles as a music venue and hangout. Their weekend events and DJ nights are an easy way to hang out, dance a little, and support local artists.

Highland Park – With trails, playgrounds, and rustic scenery, Highland Park is a nature-filled escape just minutes from campus. Bring a picnic, hike the trails, or check out Old Ben, the world’s largest preserved steer (yes, really).

Main Street Cafe – If you love coffee and cozy vibes, this downtown spot is perfect for meetups or quiet solo study sessions with a latte in hand. They often feature local art and live music, adding to the chill atmosphere.

Kokomo may be low-key, but it’s full of soulful spots and community hangouts perfect for students who need a break or just want to have a good time. Whether you’re into nature, food, music, or a little bit of everything, there’s a place for you here.

Kokomo, Indiana, offers students unique educational opportunities, with access to both renowned public and private colleges and universities. Whether you’re looking for career-focused programs, vibrant student life, or supportive faculty, Kokomo’s higher education landscape holds something for everyone.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Kokomo

Indiana University Kokomo (IU Kokomo) – As the leading public university in the region, IU Kokomo offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs focusing on business, education, nursing, sciences, and the arts. The university is well-known for its supportive community and affordable tuition.

Ivy Tech Community College Kokomo – Ivy Tech is Indiana’s largest public postsecondary institution and has a strong presence in Kokomo. It offers associate degrees, technical certificates, and workforce training, making it ideal for students seeking practical skills and transfer opportunities.

Purdue Polytechnic Institute Kokomo – As a branch of Purdue University, this campus specializes in cutting-edge fields such as engineering technology, computer graphics, and organizational leadership. Purdue Polytechnic in Kokomo supports hands-on learning with a strong focus on career readiness.

Kokomo Area Career Center – Serving high school students as well as adults, this public center offers career and technical education in healthcare, information technology, culinary arts, and more. It’s a fantastic starting point for those wanting to enter the workforce quickly.

Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) – Kokomo Education Center – While Indiana Wesleyan is a private university, its Kokomo Education Center collaborates with public entities to provide accessible evening classes and adult education programs for the Kokomo community.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Kokomo

Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) – IWU stands out for its Christ-centered education and strong programs in business, education, and nursing. Though the main campus is in Marion, IWU’s Kokomo Education Center is popular for its supportive approach and flexible adult-focused degrees.

Crossroads Bible College – Kokomo Extension – This private Christian college offers ministry, theology, and leadership programs at its Kokomo extension, providing students a solid foundation for church leadership or advanced religious studies.

Ancilla College (partnered programs in Kokomo) – Although based in Donaldson, Ancilla has partnered with Kokomo-area institutions to deliver associate degrees and transfer pathways for nursing, business, and criminal justice students.

Huntington University – Adult Education, Kokomo – Huntington delivers several adult degree programs in the Kokomo area, including business administration and counseling, designed with a supportive, faith-based environment.

Trine University – Kokomo Regional Office – Trine offers accelerated degree programs in business and engineering at its Kokomo office, making private higher education accessible and career-oriented for working adults and recent high school graduates.

Choosing a college or university in Kokomo means joining a community that values growth, academic innovation, and student success. Whether you thrive in a large university setting or a smaller, faith-based institution, you’ll find excellent pathways to your future here.

Kokomo, IN may be a mid-sized city, but it’s home to several excellent high schools that offer strong academic programs, dedicated educators, and a community-focused environment. Whether you're a parent exploring options or a student planning for college, knowing your top choices can make all the difference.

Here are the top public and private high schools in Kokomo, Indiana that consistently stand out for their performance, support, and commitment to student success.

Top Public High Schools in Kokomo, IN

• Kokomo High School – As the main public high school in the city, Kokomo High is well-known for its International Baccalaureate (IB) program, robust AP courses, and a variety of extracurriculars, from music and arts to athletics.
• – Located just outside of Kokomo, Northwestern offers a small-school feel with big-school opportunities, including strong STEM programs and a supportive teaching staff.

• – Serving the rural areas near Kokomo, Eastern focuses on academics, leadership, and community service with modern facilities and a safe learning environment.

• – Known for its academic rigor and dedicated faculty, Western consistently scores high in state education rankings with strong sports and music programs to round out the student experience.

• – A smaller school with a personalized approach to education, Taylor prides itself on preparing students for careers and college through dual-credit courses and career tech opportunities.

Top Private High Schools in Kokomo, IN

• – Providing a faith-based education, this school emphasizes character development, academic excellence, and Christian values in a close-knit, nurturing environment.

• – Though primarily serving elementary and middle grades, this Catholic school prepares students early for success in advanced academic settings and partners with local high schools for a seamless transition.

• – A private, Bible-centered school that offers a strong academic program coupled with spiritual development. Small class sizes allow for individualized attention and support.

• – Offering K-12 education in a faith-focused setting, this school promotes academic integrity, moral values, and community involvement while preparing students for future success.

• – A smaller, alternative private schooling option that offers flexible programs tailored to students seeking a personalized education within a Christian perspective.

Whether you’re looking for strong academics, faith-based learning, or a well-rounded high school experience, Kokomo has options to help your student thrive. Each of these schools has a unique culture and curriculum designed to prepare students not only for college—but for life.

While Kokomo, Indiana, may not host major league teams like Los Angeles or New York, it thrives with a rich and passionate sports culture centered around local and regional teams. This Midwestern city embraces athletics wholeheartedly, and its professional and semi-professional teams play a vital role in the community, fostering both hometown pride and promising athletic careers.

Basketball – Kokomo BobKats (The Basketball League – TBL)

• Kokomo BobKats – The city’s pride in professional basketball, the Kokomo BobKats play in The Basketball League (TBL), an independent professional league in the United States. The BobKats represent the community with flair and tenacity, playing home games at the Kokomo Memorial Gymnasium — a historic venue known locally as “The Gym.” Founded in 2021, the team quickly built a loyal fan base and is committed to developing players who aspire to ascend to higher levels of competition.
• The BobKats stand out not only for their athletic ability but also for their commitment to the Kokomo community. Players regularly engage in youth outreach programs, school visits, and charity events, connecting sports with local impact.

Baseball – Kokomo Jackrabbits (Northwoods League)

• Kokomo Jackrabbits – Founded in 2015, the Kokomo Jackrabbits are a member of the Northwoods League, one of the top summer collegiate baseball leagues in the country. The team plays its home games at Kokomo Municipal Stadium, a modern facility that holds over 4,000 fans and was voted “Best Summer Ballpark in America” by Ballpark Digest in 2015.
• The Jackrabbits offer fans thrilling baseball action with a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. Many players in the Northwoods League go on to play in Major League Baseball, making each game an exciting opportunity to watch future stars in action. The team is a staple of summer entertainment in Kokomo with community nights, fireworks, and local promotions making every outing memorable.

Football – Kokomo Wildkats (High School)

• Although Kokomo doesn’t currently have a professional or semi-professional football team, the city’s football tradition thrives through the Kokomo High School Wildkats. Their football program has a rich history, competitive spirit, and deep community support, often drawing impressive crowds to Walter Cross Field.
• The Wildkats are known for producing talented student-athletes and instilling strong values of sportsmanship and teamwork. While not professional, the environment, skill, and passion shown at their games reflect the same spirit you’d find in any professional arena.

Other Notable Sports & Venues

• Kokomo Municipal Stadium – Beyond hosting the Jackrabbits, this beautiful stadium is used for tournaments and community events throughout the year. With its scenic downtown location and modern amenities, it has undoubtedly elevated the city’s baseball culture.
• The Gym (Kokomo Memorial Gymnasium) – An iconic basketball venue, originally opened in 1949, it remains one of the largest high school gyms in the country. It now serves as the home of the Kokomo BobKats and is a beloved symbol of Indiana’s basketball tradition.

Though Kokomo may not have teams in the NBA or NFL, the city is a shining example of how sports can bring a community together. Its teams may be smaller in scale, but the passion, pride, and energy they bring are second to none. Whether you’re cheering for a BobKats dunk, a Jackrabbits homerun, or a Wildkats touchdown, Kokomo offers an authentic, heartwarming sports experience perfect for fans of all ages.

Kokomo, Indiana might surprise you! This small city packs a big punch when it comes to history, innovation, and charm. Whether you're a local or just passing through, here are 10 fun facts about Kokomo that you might not know:

1. City of Firsts – Kokomo earned the nickname “City of Firsts” for its many innovations, including the first gasoline-powered car built by Elwood Haynes in 1894.
2. Cookie Capital – Ever enjoy a tasty Nutter Butter or Oreo? Thank Kokomo! The city is home to a massive Nabisco plant that produces cookies for the entire nation.
3. The Haynes Apperson Festival – Every summer, Kokomo celebrates its auto heritage with this classic car show and festival that draws thousands of visitors.
4. A Musical Legacy – No, the Beach Boys song “Kokomo” wasn't written about the city, but it still fueled curiosity. In fact, tourists often call just to ask!
5. Indiana’s First Free Gas Museum – Yep, Kokomo is home to a gas pump museum, where you can see vintage pumps and explore gasoline history. Admission? Free!
6. Diversity with Heart – Kokomo is one of Indiana’s most culturally diverse small cities, with thriving communities from Haiti, Burma, and Latin America.
7. Art You Can Walk Through – The Kokomo Sculpture Walk features dozens of outdoor installations that turn the town into a living, breathing art gallery.
8. Glass with Class – Kokomo Opalescent Glass is America’s oldest art glass company, founded in 1888 and still handcrafting stunning stained glass for cathedrals and creators around the world.
9. Chrysler Runs Deep – The auto industry plays a big role in Kokomo’s economy. The city is a major hub for Stellantis (formerly Chrysler) with several major manufacturing facilities.
10. Nature in the City – Kokomo Beach isn’t the ocean, but the family-friendly water park brings summer fun with slides, lazy rivers, and plenty of splash zones right in the heart of Indiana.