While every state has advantages and disadvantages, living in Indiana is mostly positive for residents. From numerous education opportunities to affordable living costs, Indiana is an inviting state for families who want to raise children among welcoming communities.
However, Indiana’s weather conditions are far from ideal. The area experiences harsh winters, intense summer humidity, and tornados. Transportation options are also limited in this state, which can be a drawback for many families.
Luckily, the positives outweigh the negatives when it comes to determining is Indiana a good place to live. The state offers breathtaking landscapes, plenty of outdoor activities, and four distinct seasons which many areas across the US lack.
Carmel, Hamilton County
Carmel is a suburban area in Indiana with a population of around 99,450. It is rated as the best town for living and raising a family in the state of Indiana, thanks to its impressive conditions and numerous opportunities for young individuals to succeed.
- Living Costs: Most Carmel residents are homeowners due to the higher-than-US-average median household income and affordable housing.
- Education Opportunities: Most of the education establishments, both private and public, in this suburb are highly rated.
- Crime Rates: Carmel has very low crime rates since assaults and thefts rarely happen.
Fishers, Hamilton County
The suburb Fishers has around 99,040 residents, which is a bit lower than Carmel. When people research the best cities to live in Indiana, they frequently come across this one due to its tight-knit community and comfortable feel.
- Living Costs: Fishers’ median home value is slightly higher than the national average, but the vast array of high-paying jobs allows most residents to own their houses.
- Education Opportunities: Almost all schools in and near Fishers are top-rated, which is convenient and inviting for families with children and young professionals.
- Crime Rates: Property crimes, including burglary and motor vehicle thefts, happen more often in this area compared to violent crimes which are almost non-existent.
Zionsville, Boone County
If you want to explore more sparse cities with fewer people and more nature to admire, look no further than Zionsville. This place has only around 30,830 residents and it offers a calmer atmosphere than busier suburbs.
- Living Costs: 85% of Zionsville’s residents are homeowners, while the rest are renters, indicating that most of them make enough money to afford not only housing but also other necessities.
- Education Opportunities: Most schools in this suburb are located in other nearby areas like Carmel and Fishers, requiring parents to find transportation for their children. Despite that, residents have the opportunity to get high-quality education.
- Crime Rates: Besides occasional property thefts, Zionsville experiences little to no crimes.
Westfield, Hamilton County
If living in Indiana sounds like a good idea so far, wait until you discover more about Westfield. This suburban area has a population of approximately 48,260 and nature views you won’t be able to ignore.
- Living Costs: Like similar cities on this list, most residents of this Indiana suburb own their homes and have affordable housing expenses.
- Education Opportunities: Unlike Zionsville, Westfield has many education facilities, both intermediate and high schools, within the city.
- Crime Rates: Westfield’s residents are highly focused on home security and property protection due to the occasional assaults and burglaries reported in the area.
Fort Wayne, Allen County
As one of the most affordable cities in the United States, Fort Wayne also impresses with its entertainment and outdoor activities. It has a population of over 324,950 and a higher-than-average median household income.
- Living Costs: Employed Fort Wayne residents can easily afford to purchase groceries, pay their bills, and own houses.
- Education Opportunities: From elementary schools to community colleges and universities, Fort Wayne offers something for every family’s education needs.
- Crime Rates: While Fort Wayne’s crime rates are higher than other areas on this list, they are still lower than the US average.
Indianapolis
Are you and your family lovers of recreation and cultural exploration? Indianapolis is the ideal place for you! This city has a population of over 985,600 and its urban atmosphere offers many entertainment opportunities for residents of all ages.
- Living Costs: Housing and utility costs in Indianapolis are lower than the national average.
- Education Opportunities: Most education establishments in Indy are considered the most highly rated in the entire country.
- Crime Rates: The only drawback newcomers face about moving to Indianapolis is the higher-than-US-average crime rate.
Granger, St. Joseph County
Granger, with a population of around 30,000, might be the best choice for families who find it difficult to feel close to their community. Residents welcome newcomers with open arms, embodying diversity and inclusivity to a very high level.
- Living Costs: The rural atmosphere of Granger lowers the costs for residents, allowing most of them to become homeowners and provide stability for their loved ones.
- Education Opportunities: Granger’s residents have impressive education levels thanks to the numerous top-rated schools.
- Crime Rates: This area’s crime rates are 65% below the US average.
Glendale, Marion County
As one of the best Indianapolis neighborhoods, Glendale is great for raising families and providing long-term stability. Its population is roughly 3,740, and young individuals appreciate the suburban yet modern feel.
- Living Costs: Due to the median home value being close to the national average, a high percentage of residents are renters.
- Education Opportunities: This area offers many public and private options, guaranteeing high-quality education.
- Crime Rates: While Glendale is generally considered a safe neighborhood, residents should remain vigilant due to the increasing number of violent crimes in the area.
Brownsburg, Hendricks County
In addition to being the best place to live in its county, Brownsburg’s living conditions are also impressive at a state level. This suburb has a population of nearly 29,380, and it is known for its dedicated focus on education.
- Living Costs: The median rent in this area is higher than the US average, encouraging residents to invest in purchasing a home.
- Education Opportunities: The education levels, including bachelor’s and master’s, are above the US average, thanks to the highly rated schools in the area.
- Crime Rates: Property thefts are more common than violent crimes in Brownsburg.
Noblesville, Hamilton County
Noblesville’s sparse suburban feel attracts newcomers, helping it make this list. With a population of over 70,440 and a conservative community, many consider it ideal for raising a family with young children.
- Living Costs: 28% of residents pay high median rent, while the rest own their homes.
- Education Opportunities: Noblesville elementary schools, high schools, and universities offer high-quality education to students of all levels.
- Crime Rates: Safety is a high priority in this area, which is why property and violent crime rates are lower than the national average.
Is Living in Indiana the Best Option For You?
After learning more about the living conditions in the best cities, living in Indiana might not sound exciting to everyone.
Some may appreciate the low living costs and crime rates of the mentioned suburbs. However, others may consider the extreme weather conditions or limited transportation as undesirable when deciding if they should move to this state.
For this reason, it’s crucial to determine the priorities and preferences of your family before giving notice to move out and relocate to any of Indiana’s calm and safe suburbs.
Luckily, the state also offers larger town options, which are great for raising families and finding more high-paying employment opportunities.
