Best Places To Live in Indiana
Looking for the best places to live in Indiana? We've got you covered.
A Hoosier is a resident of Indiana, and The Hoosier State is known for having multiple cities that offer its residents a fine quality of life. From excellent schools to affordable living and cultural amenities, there is something for everyone in this Midwestern powerhouse.
In This Article
1. South Bend
Best known as home to the University of Notre Dame, South Bend serves as the cultural and economic hub of northern Indiana. Several economic development projects are occurring, and quality of life amenities include annual festivals, nightlife venues and Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center.
2. Fort Wayne
In northeastern Indiana where three rivers meet, Fort Wayne is known as the “City of Churches” with 360 places of worship. The economy is strong in distribution and finance, and the defense industry employs thousands. Also prominent are 85 parks, six hospitals and many college campuses.
3. Bloomington
Nicknamed the “Gateway to Scenic Southern Indiana,” Bloomington is home to Indiana University and its 42,000 students. The economy is strong in advanced manufacturing, education, life sciences and technology, and the city hosts many theater companies and entertainment spots. Shopping options include College Mall and Fountain Square Mall.
4. Columbus
Columbus has multiple sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and the city is also noted for several buildings with modern architectural designs. Columbus is situated on the White River, and residents can utilize 20 miles of walking trails. Engine manufacturing giant Cummins Inc. is headquartered in the city.
5. Muncie
Situated along the White River is Muncie, home to Ball State University. The college atmosphere gives Muncie a dynamic music scene along with good restaurants and nighttime hotspots, and residents have access to excellent health care thanks to IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital.
6. Anderson
A beautiful downtown historic district is one of the many livability highlights of Anderson, a city with good parks and top healthcare options like Community Hospital Anderson and St. Vincent Health. The city houses Anderson University and attractions like Hoosier Park Racing & Casino and the Paramount Theatre.
7. Crown Point
Serving as the hub of northwest Indiana is Crown Point, which offers higher education options such as Hyles-Anderson College and the University of Saint Francis. A nice public parks system is in place, and Crown Point hosts a 10-day Lake County Fair every August.
8. Carmel
Immediately north of Indianapolis is Carmel, ranked among the fastest growing communities in America. Residents are privy to large retail centers like Clay Terrace and Village Park Plaza, and construction was completed in 2020 on Carmel City Center, a $300 million mixed-use development. Carmel Farmers Market is the largest in Indiana.
Experiences & Adventures
9 Things to Do in Indiana
Children’s Museum, Abe’s boyhood home are among several hotspots
9. Lebanon
Amenities are plentiful in Lebanon, including a highly regarded Lebanon Community School Corporation along with Boone County Airport. Several antique shops grace the downtown district along with a historic Boone County Courthouse, and the city hosts an annual Back to the Fifties Festival and a weekly farmer’s market.
