Over 65% of the population in Indy live in family households and over 35% of the population is under the age of 25. Combine a young, family-oriented city, with the gosh darn friendliness of the place, and you get an amazing city for a young family (or someone who wouldn’t mind one someday).

Here's a note from a local about a part of Indianapolis they think is good for families:
*Look at the north side of Indianapolis. It is where all the money is in the state and is absolutely an amazing place to live. There is so much to do and is very safe and had great schools. Zionsville, Carmel, Fishers, Geist, all are wonderful places to live. They are incredibly safe and have many good options when it comes to schools, both public and private*

For more reviews from locals check out: [**The Reviews**](https://lookyloomove.com/locations/indianapolis/reviews).

Young and Family Friendly

The Best Thing About Indianapolis?

Indianapolis is considered the crossroads of the country because it sits at the intersection of 4 major freeways. In some ways that’s the issue. You’re really in the center of a lot of land here and in fact it is the largest city in the country not on a navigable body of water. For many that doesn’t matter but for those who live on coasts or a great lake or river that lack of water access or view might weigh on you.

Here's a local on the downsides of Indianapolis:
*The biggest Cons I have with the city is really just the lack of things to do outdoors. There are not many nearby lakes or hiking of any kind. There aren't many established dirt trails for cycling or running. But if you are willing to go on a trip there are some great spots a few hours away.*

For more reviews from locals check out: [**The Reviews**](https://lookyloomove.com/locations/indianapolis/reviews).

Landlocked

The Worst Thing About Indianapolis?

Indianapolis is a city all on its own, which means locals have to rely on each other and work to improve the city if they want more entertainment or nightlife. Locals love that it’s a big city that still feels small (perks of being in the midwest, eh?). There is a great downtown, an “in the works” food scene, a great airport and locals boast about how bike-friendly the city is. If the weather is nice, you’ll catch people biking from BR to Carmel or downtown, all on a dedicated greenway. Speaking of weather, Indianapolis is in the midwest, which means you’re getting all 4 seasons. Winters can be grey and depressing, while the summers can be stifling. You’ll also catch a lot of people getting into the college sports season. As a Big Ten area, you’ll have no shortage of people wanting to go out and catch a game either in person or at a local bar. 

If you're interested in the going on's of Indianapolis check out the [**Downtown calendar of events**](https://downtownindy.org/events/calendar):



Lifestyle of Indianapolis


Indianapolis, like many midwest cities, suffered from the deindustrialization and loss of manufacturing jobs over the years. The city used to rival Detroit as an auto manufacturing giant, but companies started shutting down plants and thousands lost their jobs between 1990-2012. Since then, the largest industries in Indy are mainly finance, insurance, education, healthcare, wholesale trade, and hospitality. Niche markets include amatuer sports and auto racing. Speaking of racing...The Indianapolis 500 is what the city might be best known for. Sports tourism is a huge draw for the city and brings in a ton of revenue. The Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium are also huge draws and bring in a ton of work-related tourism and convention goers every year. Headquarters in Indy include Anthem, Inc, Simon Property Group and Eli Lilly, which has become the largest private employer in the city, with over 11,000 workers. Biotech, life sciences, and healthcare have steadily become front runners as leading industries of the city. Other large corporations in the city include Lids, Steak n’ Shake, and Duke Realty. Because of where the city is located and the extensive highway and railway infrastructure, Indy is huge for logistics and has the second largest FedEx Express hub in the world. 


Worklife of Indianapolis

The average rent in Indy is less than $1,000 a month, which is just 17% of the area’s median income (San Francisco is 43% and New York is 40%). That makes Indianapolis the cheapest place to rent and the second most affordable city in the country. Looking to buy? Indy has the most affordable home of any large city in America. Seriously, you can raise a family or get your start professionally here for not a lot of money. 


Cost Of Housing

Why You Should Move Here Now?

**The Best Thing About Indianapolis?** Young and Family Friendly

Over 65% of the population in Indy live in family households and over 35% of the population is under the age of 25. Combine a young, family-oriented city, with the gosh darn friendliness of the place, and you get an amazing city for a young family (or someone who wouldn’t mind one someday). 

**The Worst Thing About Indianapolis?** Landlocked

Indianapolis is considered the crossroads of the country because it sits at the intersection of 4 major freeways. In some ways that’s the issue. You’re really in the center of a lot of land here and in fact it is the largest city in the country not on a navigable body of water. For many that doesn’t matter but for those who live on coasts or a great lake or river that lack of water access or view might weigh on you. 

**How You Living?** With Nice Neighbors

Indianapolis has an interesting downtown scene. Old Northside has Victorian Mansions that have been carved up into cool pads for the wealthy who want to live downtown. There’s also Fountain Square neighborhood with large homes and lofts built from the former factory and warehouse buildings. Broad Ripple Village offers a groovier community vibe with smaller homes and lots of bars and restaurants for weekend play. Finally there are great neighborhoods on the South Side for families looking for bigger homes and sizable yards. Pretty much whatever you’re looking for you can find here. 

**Why You Should Move Here Now?** Cost Of Housing

The average rent in Indy is less than $1,000 a month, which is just 17% of the area’s median income (San Francisco is 43% and New York is 40%). That makes Indianapolis the cheapest place to rent and the second most affordable city in the country. Looking to buy? Indy has the most affordable home of any large city in America. Seriously, you can raise a family or get your start professionally here for not a lot of money. 


Indianapolis can feel like it’s in the middle of nowhere, and it is…sort of. Almost smack-dab in the middle of Indiana, it’s within driving distance to large cities like Chicago to the northwest, Cincinnati to the southeast, Columbus directly east, and Louisville almost directly south. Because it’s the only big city in the immediate area, Indianapolis residents have created a circle of really nice suburbs around the city. Some like Carmel, Noblesville, Fishers, and Muncie have a reputation and feel all their own. As far as topography goes, it’s pretty flat, but there are some lakes north of the city and, if you're up for the drive, some state parks and forests down south by Bloomington. 


The Area

Unlike other college campuses, Butler is a relatively quiet college. The surrounding areas boast great restaurants, bars, and great value for your money, housing wise. These neighborhoods are walkable, safe, and a great distance from other activities in the area. If you’re in the know, you know that SoBro is the coolest part of Broad Ripple. It’s its own neighborhood, has a smaller feel, and has a great atmosphere. Snag a great apartment for a decent price for just you or one with enough room for friends!
- SoBro
- Butler-Tarkington
- Mass Ave.


College Students

SoBro

If you’re looking for a good time in Indy, go where the young professionals are. The popular neighborhood of Broad Ripple is dominated by bars and late night spots. In addition, there are some great, smaller starter homes. You can get your pick of craftsman or bungalow style for a lot less money than other areas. The neighborhood is always busy with young people, college kids, and younger families. It’s the perfect area to walk between breweries, dinner spots, parks, and the farmer’s market!
- Broad Ripple
- Brownsburg
- Old Northside


Young Professionals

Broad Ripple


Starting a family doesn’t mean you have to stop the fun! Indy has plenty to offer by way of fun, safe neighborhoods that still have a lively atmosphere for new parents and young families. These neighborhoods feature great homes, great restaurants, and green spaces for fun weekend activities! Irvington is on the east side and is a great historic neighborhood. It’s pricier than similar areas like Little Flower, but it has larger houses. Small businesses have started flocking to this area in the past 5 years and it’s definitely the place to be for people who want to be in the city, but be able to have a neighborhood feel with a bit more house.
- Brownsburg
- Meridian Kessler
- Irvington


Young Families

Brownsburg

Established families often have different priorities than their younger counterparts. These neighborhoods may be less walkable, but you can find great homes, great schools, and restaurants all in one place! Check out Fall Creek Place for tree-lined streets, parks, and great amenities. This neighborhood is a long-standing favorite amongst Indy families and it’s right in the heart of the city! If you can, snag a restored historic home close to one of the area's great parks!
- Fall Creek Place
- Fishers/Carmel
- Noblesville


Established Families

Fall Creek Place

It’s easy to stay close to the action in Indy without being *in* the action. In-town neighborhoods have plenty of funky and fun options, while also having some of the best restaurants and bars in the area! Retire in Fountain Square and reap all the benefits of the work that’s been put into the area in the last 5 years or so. It’s considered “up and coming” and there are great restaurants, breweries, and newly flipped homes or condos.
- Fountain Square
- Downtown/Mass Ave
- Nickel Plate District


Empty Nesters

Fountain Square

Indianapolis

**What is it like to live in Indianapolis, IN?**

I was born (and live) in Indy now. Leaving to live in five other states, I come home again and again. Whether you like sports, arts, or are a foodie, Indianapolis offers much.

For those who hate Indy, it is different than the ‘90s. With that said, cities, to an extent, are wonderful or horrible, depending on what you like and want in a town.

It is the “biggest small town” you will find I say and mean it. Friendly people, without too many uppity people, while offering pro sports, year-round symphony, and one of the world’s top children’s museums. Topnotch universities and a lovely downtown, canal, and free events year round.

**What is it like to live in Indianapolis, IN?**

Grew up in Indy, I now live in San Francisco. Will probably move back someday.

Keep in mind with the novel I wrote below, I absolutely love Indianapolis. Every city of this size is experiencing somewhat of a renaissance, Indy really isn't special in that regard. My opinion (partially backed by data) is that most millennials grew up in the suburbs, and we want more of a diverse urban environment to live in, and many of us have decided to invest in and change the cities we grew up outside of. People are exponentially investing in Indianapolis. It has a long way to go, but it's turning into a great cultural experience, not just the family friendly and affordable place it's known for.

TL;DR: Indy has enough of everything that big city people enjoy, plus the benefits of smaller towns.

Some things that I think are important to know:

When it comes to weather, it is just like Chicago, New York, Boston, Philly, etc. Winters that aren't so bad until January hits, then it sucks for two straight months. Spring is beautiful unless it rains too much. Summer is awesome until brutal humidity and temperatures hit in late July, but it's way better than the Winter. Then the Fall is just incredible with moderate temps and changing leaves to enjoy campfires, going on camping trips or college football games out of town. So basically if you're used to the awesome moderate temperatures of the west coast, then it's not going to be as pleasant.

Indy is technically one of the largest cities by population, but that's because the city and county government combined in the 70's, making it the 12th largest city on paper. But hardly any cities have combined with their county government. Looking at cities by metropolitan areas will help you judge more accurately. So when you look at population by metro areas, Indianapolis is 34th, right behind Cleveland, OH. For this reason, I personally don't consider Indy to be a major city. The population density is very low, which is why there's not much public transportation, and why housing is very affordable. The city is very sprawled out, and although a lot more people are moving downtown, it's still not very densely populated downtown. The downtown area with all the big buildings is mostly made up of hotels and businesses. You absolutely have to have a car to enjoy everything the whole city offers.

**What is it like to live in Indianapolis?**

So far everyone has posted good answer, for them.

Personally I love Indy but it's not a great fit for everyone. The weather is unpredictable. You can literally go from shorts one day to a winter coat the next day. I'm OK with our museums - not the greatest but they are solid. The art museum always have outdoor events that my wife and I enjoy. (Google search Newfields) The winter lights there are always nice but the hot apple cider with whiskey you can buy makes it even more enjoyable. The best museum in the city is the Children's Museum. It is routinely ranked as one of the best in the country. Even though my children are grown I will still go there.

Outdoor activities are what you make of them. We have no mountains, nor any oceans.
Central and Northern Indiana are flat. Southern Indiana starting about Bloomington is hilly. If you want to hike I would recommend the state parks in Southern Indiana, plus Turkey Run. If you like canoeing or kayaking there are plenty of waterways to enjoy.

The state has plenty of history. It's easy to find but honestly not a lot of people enjoy history. There are several festivals around the state with my favorite being the Feast of the Hunter's Moon up in Lafayette.

Crime rate is technically on average with Chicago based on differences in the populations. That said, it really is isolated for the most part to some of the various neighborhoods around the city. Crime is mobile but violent crime is mostly bad guy on bad guy violence with the occasional innocent caught in the cross fire.

If you are into sports Indy is a great city. Indiana loves basketball. As a matter of fact the state has four of the largest high school gyms in the country. Indiana is all about high school, college and professional basketball. The city has professional teams in football (Colts), basketball (Pacers), soccer (Indy Eleven) and a minor league baseball team (Indians).

Additionally, if you love automotive sports Indy is considered the racing capital of the world. We have the Indy 500, NASCAR Brickyard 400, drag racing, midget cars, motorcycle racing, etc.

Pros/Cons of Living in Indy?

There are lots of things already covered here but how much that impacts your opinion I think it will vary greatly on what you are into and what you value.

Cost of living here is still pretty low comparatively. Indianapolis has some really good restaurants. And they are relatively cheap compared to what you would see on much of the east coast. There is lots of development occurring right now in and around the city with lots of homes being flipped, vacant property being purchased and built up throughout the city. In the last 5 years the downtown area has changed quite a bit.

If you are into college sports there is a lot of activity here with NCAA championships and Big Ten Tournaments (football and Basketball) being held here fairly regularly.

If you are into racing the Indy 500 is here and is a massive event.

If you like craft beer there is a quickly growing and improving beer scene in Indy.

There are some pretty good conventions held here. Gen Con and ComicCon are both pretty huge events.

The biggest Cons I have with the city is really just the lack of things to do outdoors. There are not many nearby lakes or hiking of any kind. There aren't many established dirt trails for cycling or running. But if you are willing to go on a trip there are some great spots a few hours away.

Indianapolis, Indiana

Naptown

Looklyloo Score: 68