UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.
#4. Lafayette
Located just an hour northwest of Indianapolis, Lafayette, IN is a growing community that has certainly earned its spot on the Top College Towns list. In the past two years, Lafayette and West Lafayette has seen an incredible spike in economic growth thanks to entrepreneurial efforts by Purdue University. The initiatives have raised over $96 million in local, state, federal and private funding, and created 156 jobs.
Because of its nature as a college town, Lafayette and West Lafayette have no problem attracting talent, as the talent comes and stays for Purdue and Ivy Tech Community College. West Lafayette, in particular, lends a Chicago vibe with a college town ambiance, making it a great place to live and work for residents and talent alike.
Manufacturing, educational services, health care, social assistance and arts and entertainment are thriving industries in Lafayette, with major companies like Fairfield Manufacturing Corp, Subaru-indiana Automotive Inc, State Farm Insurance, Iu Health Arnett Hospital and Purdue.
There’s plenty to drink in Lafayette and “West Lala” at wineries and breweries, the most popular being Wildcat Creek Winery and People’s Brewing Company. Visitors and residents can also enjoy an array of museums, as well as outdoor amenities like Clegg Memorial Gardens and Wea Creek Orchard.
Foodies can enjoy the independent restaurant scene and indulge in local dishes made by Mountain Jacks Steakhouse, Bistro 501, and the original Arni’s Restaurant.