City Hall in Carmel, IN

Best Places to Live in the US in 2022 Sponsored by: eXp RealtyeXp Realty

UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.

Carmel, IN is the #10 Best City to Live in the USA

A view of downtown Carmel, IN, which ranks #10 in the Livability Top 100 Best Places to Live in the U.S.
Carmel, IN
Quality of Life
Liv Score

655
How We Calculate Our Data
Civics 82
Demographics 44
Economy 68
Education 50
Health 74
Housing 62
Infrastructure 49
Amenities 53

Why Carmel is one of the best cities to live in

North of the state’s capital city is Carmel, IN, a true gem whose miles of connected paths and trails make it one of the best places to live in the U.S. The Monon Trail, which begins in Carmel and travels through Westfield and Grand Park to Sheridan, gives residents a great place to run, bike or walk and links to many of the city’s local attractions. Fill your afternoons at one of the city’s various entertainment destinations, including Clay Terrace, an outdoor shopping oasis; the Arts & Design District, which is full of must-visit galleries, showrooms, restaurants and specialty shops; Midtown Plaza, an interactive play area with green spaces, games and swings; and much, much more. Also great about this city of nearly 100,000? The city is known for its safety rating, making it the perfect place for families. And when it comes to dining… let’s just say your taste buds will sing. The area boasts a slew of return-worthy coffee shops, breweries and restaurants. 

What are Carmel’s major industries and employers?

A few top employers include CNO Financial Group, RCI, KAR Global, and IU Health North Hospital.

What are the major colleges and universities in Carmel?

Butler University in nearby Indianapolis.

What is the weather like in Carmel? 

Get the four-season experience – crisp autumns, chilly winters, cool springs and hot summers. What more could you ask for?

What is there to do outside in Carmel?

Go canoeing, kayaking or floating along the White River. 

Carmel, IN is Remote-Ready

What makes Carmel a great place for remote workers?

On top of being a safe place to live, Carmel is also one of the country’s fastest growing and most pet-friendly cities, making the city an ideal spot for those with four-legged friends. When it’s time for a break from work, there are plenty of local yoga studios, dozens of miles of trailheads to explore by foot or electric bike and several places to hit the links.

What Locals Love in Carmel, IN

What is the best local bookstore in Carmel?

Mystery Mike’s offers a fantastic collection of mysteries and thrillers and maintains a cozy vibe in a bit of a low-profile storefront. 

How do you spend a weekend in Carmel?

Shop the boutiques at Carmel City Center, then participate in a progressive dinner at the center. Tons of great eateries are on-site and just waiting to be enjoyed. Our recommendation? Start with a snacky appetizer at 317 Charcuterie, followed by entrees at Vivante, an upscale French bistro inside Hotel Carmichael. Round out the evening with a sweet treat from Cake Bake Shop or a scoop of Graeter’s famous ice cream.

What can you do for free in Carmel?

Depending on the season, explore the Carmel Farmers Market or the Winter Market.  

What’s the best way to spend happy hour in Carmel?

Grab a beer and some fish and chips at the local Irish pub, The Brockway Pub.

What’s something only locals know about Carmel?

Second Saturday Gallery Walks at the Arts & Design District are considered a must-attend.

Is Carmel, IN a good place to live?

A family-friendly atmosphere paired with a growing economy and an extensive trail system for outdoors lovers makes Carmel a best place to live in Indiana.

Thinking of Moving to Carmel?

What is the Carmel, IN Real Estate Market Like?

Carmel, IN real estate is known for its classic American main street, multiple golf courses, and proximity to nearby Indianapolis. Homes for sale in Carmel are some of the most valuable in Indiana when compared to the statewide average. If you’re a young professional making the move to Carmel, local real estate agents will doubtlessly direct you to the cozy residential neighborhoods less than a block from downtown Carmel.

Quick Facts About Carmel, IN

Average Commute
20.26
Median Home Value
$388,578
Med. Household Income
$117,078
Total Population
103,628
Walk Score
16
Median Property Tax
$1,308

Continue Reading Best Places To Live in the US in 2022

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