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Hammond is a city of approximately 75,000 people in Lake County, Indiana, located at the Illinois border on the southern edge of the Chicago metro area. As the home of Purdue University Northwest's main campus, Hammond serves a diverse student population that blends local commuters with students relocating from elsewhere in the region. The city has a dense, urban-suburban character shaped by its position as part of the greater Chicago metropolitan area, giving residents access to one of the nation's largest job markets and cultural offerings via commuter rail and highway. Housing in Hammond is significantly more affordable than comparable neighborhoods in Chicago, making it an economically attractive option for students attending PNW or working in the broader metro area. The South Shore Line commuter rail provides a direct link from Hammond to downtown Chicago's Millennium Station, making the city a practical base for students who want metro access without Chicago prices.
Common questions from students searching for housing.
Yes. The South Shore Line commuter rail connects Hammond to Millennium Station in downtown Chicago, with the trip taking roughly 45 to 60 minutes depending on the departure point and service schedule. This makes Hammond a viable base for students who want access to Chicago's jobs, culture, and nightlife without paying Chicago rents.
Browse student housing near each Hammond-area university.