Moving to Indianapolis

Are you considering a move to Indianapolis, affectionately known as "Indy"? Facing a city known to harmoniously blend big-city living with a dash of Midwest charm might excite you! Famous for its impressive sports scene, flourishing foodie culture, and extensive park system, the allure of Indianapolis is truly compelling. But, let's peel back the layers further in this comprehensive relocation guide, giving you insight into neighborhoods, cost of living, schools, and all you need to confidently step into life in Indianapolis.

Moving to Indianapolis, IN landscape image

What to Know Before Moving to Indianapolis

1. Say Hello to Affordable Living!

If you're coming from bustling cities with sky-high living costs, Indianapolis would be a welcome change. The Hoosier capital is known for its significantly lower cost of living compared to other US metropolises. Plus, the housing market is incredibly affordable, with a median home price that'll make you swoon in gratitude. You can say goodbye to years of renting and finally dive into owning a home.

2. Sports Enthusiast's Dream!

Indianapolis is truly a haven for sports fans. Home to the famous Indy 500, the world's largest single-day sporting event, it's a city that thrives on adrenaline. It's also home turf for the beloved Indianapolis Colts and the Indiana Pacers, so you can grab some yellow and blue gear and join the cheering crowds at the Lucas Oil Stadium or the Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Let's not forget about the sporting history that fills the streets - it's not called the "Amateur Sports Capital of the World" for nothing!

3. When We Say "Hoosier Hospitality," We Mean It

For starters, if you're moving to Indianapolis, you're becoming a Hoosier! "But what's a Hoosier?" Good question. There's no definitive answer, but it's generally used to refer to a resident of Indiana. The term reflects the warm, welcoming, and neighborly spirit that is so pervasive in Indianapolis. Don't be surprised if strangers wave hello, or if your neighbors invite you over for some good ol' Hoosier chili. Welcome to Hoosier nation!

4. Get Ready for Uncharted Culinary Terrain

You might not know this, but Indianapolis has an exciting food scene. From scrumptious pork tenderloin sandwiches and sugar cream pie (the official state pie of Indiana, by the way), to the growing array of international cuisines, this city has every foodie drooling. The city is also known for its craft breweries, making it a paradise for beer connoisseurs!

5. Wanderlust Cure Right Within the City

This might come as a surprise: Indianapolis has more public monuments and memorials than any other city in the United States after Washington D.C! And it doesn't end there. The city boasts an extensive network of bike paths and trails. The famous Monon Trail, for example, extends over 20 miles, connecting downtown Indianapolis to the suburbs, and is a local favorite for joggers, bikers, and rollerbladers.

6. A City That Believes in the Power of Art

Little known fact #2, the Indianapolis Museum of Art (IMA) is one of the oldest and largest art museums in the nation, boasting an encyclopedic collection of over 54,000 works spanning 5,000 years. Additionally, the city is brimming with vibrant, colorful murals and hearty public art installations. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply fancy a delightful visual treat while exploring the city streets, Indy won't disappoint.

There truly is so much more than meets the eye in Indianapolis. Whether you're a sports fan, a culture vulture, a nature enthusiast, or a foodie, there's always something in Indy to keep you engaged. Just remember the Hoosier spirit, wear it like a badge, and you'll fit right in!

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Pros and Cons of Living in Indianapolis

Pros of Living in Indianapolis

Affordable Cost of Living

The cost of living in Indianapolis is more affordable compared to many other big cities in the US. Everything from housing to groceries tend to be cheaper, which can make it easier for individuals or families to maintain a comfortable lifestyle without draining their budget.

Vibrant Downtown Life

Downtown Indianapolis is filled with a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. This makes it a fun and convenient place to live or visit. Additionally, the city's skyline is stunning and there's always something going on.

Wide Range of Recreational Activities

Indiana is known for its love of sports and outdoor activities. Whether you're a fan of NFL, NBA or auto racing, you'll find something to love. There are also plenty of parks, trails, and nature reserves to satisfy people who enjoy being outdoors.

Excellent Transportation System

Indianapolis boasts an excellent transportation system which includes an international airport, intercity bus and rail lines, and a convenient highway system. This makes the city easily accessible and convenient to get around whether you're commuting locally or traveling out of state.

Friendly Community

The people in Indianapolis, also known as "Hoosiers", are generally friendly and welcoming. The city offers a sense of community where neighbors look out for each other and there's a strong sense of 'Hoosier hospitality' that residents are proud of.

Cons of Living in Indianapolis

Winters Can Be Harsh

Winters in Indianapolis can be harsh, with cold temperatures and frequent snow. Depending on your tolerance for cold weather or snow, you might find winters in Indianapolis difficult to deal with.

Public School System

While the state has numerous prestigious colleges and universities, the quality of K-12 public school education varies widely. Parents may face challenges when choosing a suitable school for their children.

Lack of Diverse Geography

Compared to coastal states or states with mountain ranges, Indianapolis lacks diverse terrain. While it has its own unique midwestern charm, those seeking ocean views or mountainous landscapes may find the geography underwhelming.

Higher Crime Rate in Some Areas

Like many major cities, certain areas of Indianapolis have higher crime rates. If safety is a concern for you, it's important to research the neighborhoods you're considering thoroughly before moving.

Economic Disparity

There is considerable income disparity in Indianapolis. While there are affluent neighborhoods where residents enjoy higher standards of living, there are also areas marked with poverty and related socio-economic challenges.

Modern day picture of Indianapolis, IN highlighting pros and cons of living in Indianapolis, IN

Is Indianapolis a Good Place to Live?


Indianapolis, IN is a great place to live because it offers a wealth of cultural experiences, fantastic restaurants, and is known for its welcoming community. It's home to a thriving sports culture with teams like the Indianapolis Colts and Pacers stirring excitement all year round. Additionally, it's adorned with beautiful parks, extensive trail systems, and is frequently highlighted for its affordable cost of living, making it attractive to both families and young professionals alike.


What Is Indianapolis Famous For?

The Indianapolis 500

Also known as "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing," the Indianapolis 500 is an annual automobile race held at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on Memorial Day weekend. With its scary-fast speeds, thrilling finishes and time-honored tradition of the winner drinking a bottle of milk, this event draws in close to 300,000 spectators and is watched by millions worldwide.

Children's Museum of Indianapolis

As the largest children's museum in the world, Children's Museum of Indianapolis is packed with five floors of fun and interactive learning opportunities. From a life-size dinosaur exhibit to a spaceship, not only kids but also adults will find themselves immersed in the excitement of exploration and discovery.

St. Elmo Steak House

Known for its world-famous, sinus-clearing shrimp cocktail, St. Elmo Steak House is an Indianapolis dining institution. Since 1902, it has been serving high-quality steaks and seafood, an experience further elevated by its throwback to the classic '40s style steakhouse ambiance.

Monument Circle

The literal and symbolic center of the city, Monument Circle is home to the iconic Soldiers and Sailors Monument. This awe-inspiring structure, which is just a few feet shorter than the Statue of Liberty, offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. During the holiday season, the Monument is transformed into the world's largest Christmas tree, making it a must-visit spot in Indianapolis.

Capital building of Indianapolis, IN in artistic rendering

Overview of Tax Rates

Property Tax

In 2023, the average property tax rate for residents of Indianapolis, IN is around 0.85% of the home's assessed value. This rate is relatively low compared to the national average property tax rate, which stands at approximately 1.08%.

Sales Tax

As of 2023, the combined sales tax rate for Indianapolis, IN is 7%. This includes a statewide base rate of 7%, without any additional local sales taxes, which is slightly higher compared to the average combined sales tax rate in the United States of about 6.5%.

Income Tax

For the year 2023, Indiana has a flat income tax rate of 3.23%, which applies to all taxable income for residents of Indianapolis, IN. This flat rate is quite moderate compared to the varied rates of other states, with the highest being California at 13.3% for the highest income bracket.

Housing Market

The housing market in Indianapolis, IN displays competitive affordability compared to most other US markets. The median home price is around $166,500, significantly below the national average. Home appreciation rates remain stable, highlighting a steady property value growth. This city also enjoys a lower cost of living, which attracts numerous renters. The average rent for an apartment is about $903, considerably less than the national average. Therefore, both homebuyers and renters find Indianapolis to be a cost-effective and attractive location. However, potential buyers and renters should remain vigilant about regional economic trends and neighborhood-specific data.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Indianapolis, IN is considerably lower than the national average and significantly less than in many other major cities. Indianapolis provides affordable housing, relatively low healthcare cost, and inexpensive public transportation. Although costs like groceries and utilities hover around the national average, the overall lower cost of living in Indianapolis makes it an attractive locale for individuals and families seeking metropolitan amenities without the hefty price tag of cities like New York or Los Angeles.

Weather & Natural Disasters

Indianapolis, IN, experiences a humid continental climate typified by hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. July witnesses peak temperatures averaging 75degF, while January, the coldest month, records averages around 28degF. Weather patterns in Indianapolis swing between clear to partly cloudy with over 188 sunny days annually. Rainfall is fairly distributed throughout the year, with springtime and early summer experiencing slightly higher precipitation. In term of natural disasters, Indianapolis is susceptible to tornadoes, particularly in spring and early summer, due to its location in the Midwest's Tornado Alley. Additionally, severe winter storms, floods, and the occasional earthquake have been reported. However, comprehensive planning and emergency response mechanisms help manage these instances, ensuring public safety.

Typical weather in Indianapolis, IN

Economy & Job Market

* Manufacturing industry

* Health care and social services

* Retail trade

* Educational services

* Accommodation and food services

When you think of Indianapolis, you might first picture the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway or the sprawling farms of Indiana. Yet, the city is also a budding center of economic activity with a vibrant, diverse job market. Historically, Indianapolis has been a stronghold for manufacturing, which still holds a firm position today, as does farming. But nowadays, the city also thrives in the health care and social services sector, retail trade, educational services, and accommodation and food services.

As a potential Indy (cute nickname alert!) transplant, what should you know about the job market? Now, buckle up! As of 2020, the unemployment rate is 3.2% which is slightly below the national average. So, the odds are in your favor. As far as the best areas to dive into, the health care and social services industry has seen significant growth recently. Retail trade and educational services are also worth setting your sights on. If you're into hospitality, check out the city's food and accommodation sector, where Indy's love for good food and warm hospitality plays out.

Traffic and Transportation

Hey there, let's hit the road and talk traffic in Indianapolis, IN! With average commute times of about 23.4 minutes, Indianapolis workers are zooming past the national average commute time of 26 minutes. Citizens get to enjoy a zippity fast ride to work each morning, score! Roll into town on the IndyGo, Indianapolis' public transportation lifeline, providing city bus services that beat-heart stop all over town. When you're jetting out, fly right from Indianapolis International Airport. Named "Best in North America" eight times in the last decade, this airport is ready for takeoff. In Indianapolis, your ride will be as smooth as its famous motor speedways. Keep your engines ready, because in the Circle City, we're all about speed and efficiency!

What is the traffic like in Indianapolis, IN?

Best Neighborhoods in Indianapolis

1. Broad Ripple Village

If you're seeking a lively, energetic hub known for its buzzing nightlife, Broad Ripple Village is your top pick. This neighborhood offers an eclectic mix of restaurants, clubs, and bars with live music that caters to all tastes, from rock to jazz to everything in-between. But don't worry, there's plenty to do in the daytime as well. Browse through the local stores, hike along the Monon Trail or enjoy art galleries and farmers' markets. It's the perfect blend of urban energy and suburban relaxation.

2. Fletcher Place

Juxtaposed perfectly between the past and the present, Fletcher Place has managed to preserve its vintage charm while welcoming a blend of modern additions. Victorian and Italianate homes grace the neighborhood, while a walking tour will reveal a plethora of eateries and breweries that even the most discerning foodie would approve of. Plus, the Cultural Trail, an 8-mile biking and walking path, runs through the area connecting it to other city hotspots. It's a magnet for the young and old alike endeavoring to explore Indy's pulse without losing the charm of yesteryears.

3. Carmel

Often touted as the Beverly Hills of the Midwest, Carmel is an upscale neighborhood with lots to offer. Pristine parks and a beautiful town square add charm to this place while an array of esteemed restaurants and shopping centers cater to the sophisticated crowd. Carmel's Center for the Performing Arts hosts national and international artists year-round, making it a cultural hub in its own right. Also, don't forget to take a trip through the scenic Monon Greenway that courses through Carmel - a definite treat for outdoorsy folks.

4. Mass Ave

An area where culture, creativity, and commerce converge. Mass Ave's five blocks of fun-filled adventure is lined with boutiques, bars, restaurants, art galleries, and theaters. Once the manufacturing district, Mass Ave today is a bustling neighborhood brimming with quirky shops and eclectic festivals like IndyFringe, which transform the area into a culturally vibrant locality. As an added perk, the area is characterized by its picturesque, pedestrian-friendly layout.

5. Meridian Kessler

Meridian Kessler is a close-knit community that offers a slower pace of life without drifting too far from the city center. The neighborhood is filled with 1920s-style homes adorned with lush, aged trees. The area is rich in Indianapolis history and often attracts people who appreciate a tight-knit community feel. In terms of amenities, the neighborhood hosts a handful of local eateries, shops, and the popular Monon Trail for the fitness enthusiasts.

In conclusion, Indianapolis isn't short of fantastic neighborhoods, each with its own unique vibe and charm. Whether you're trotting along Broad Ripple Village's nightlife, dining in Fletcher Place, shopping in Carmel, feeding your cultural hunger in Mass Ave or enjoying the peaceful atmosphere in Meridian Kessler, you're bound to fall in love with at least one of these neighborhoods. Indianapolis awaits to captivate you!

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Things to Do

1. Visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Forget about pit stops when visiting the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Known as "The Racing Capital of the World," this thrilling attraction sets the pace with its annual Indy 500, Brickyard 400, and a full museum dedicated to auto racing. If your need for speed isn't satiated, the grounds also offer driving experiences that put you behind the wheel or in the passenger seat of a real racecar.

2. Explore the Indianapolis Museum of Art

Art lovers will feel right at home in the Indianapolis Museum of Art (IMA). Home to an incredible array of more than 54,000 works spanning 5,000 years, the IMA isn't just a simple viewing experience. It incorporates interactive media, performance spaces, and a 100-acre outdoor art park called "The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park." It's literally strolling through history and beauty at its finest.

3. Enjoy A Stroll Along the Canal Walk

Part of the scenic Indiana Central Canal, the Canal Walk is a picturesque, waterside promenade perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride. If you're up to it, paddleboats, canoes, and even gondolas are available for a spectacular water perspective. Along your journey, encounter a sprinkling of monuments, murals, and memorials giving you a taste of what the city has to offer.

4. Dive into History at the Indiana War Memorial

For the history buff, the Indiana War Memorial Plaza Historic District should rank high in your "to-visit" list. This 24-acre area features two museums, three parks, and a whopping 24 monuments dedicated to the heroism and sacrifices of Indiana veterans. Its centerpiece, the imposing memorial building, is modeled after the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

5. Experience The Eiteljorg Museum

Delve into the rich art and history of the American West and the Indigenous people of North America at the Eiteljorg Museum. From stunning contemporary Native American art to cool cowboy memorabilia, this unique museum brings a slice of the wild west to the heartland.

6. Step Into A Hidden Bar

'Hidden' doesn't mean you have to play a detective. The speakeasy-style Libertine Liquor Bar, located in the basement of Pizzology in downtown Indy, offers a great range of cocktails in an ambient, moody setting. This is largely a word-of-mouth place, so consider this a local secret shared.

7. Get Spooky at the Hannah House

Venture off the beaten path, or rather the haunted path, at the Historic Hannah House. Known as Indy's Most Haunted, its charming exterior masks chilling tales of secret underground railroads and spirits of the past. Here, every day is Halloween, with frequent paranormal investigations and ghost tours.

No matter what brings you to Indianapolis, you'll find a city rich in history, culture, and adventure. Beyond just racing and food, it is a place where hidden gems, artistic achievements, and even ghostly thrills await your discovery. So, get ready to kick your exploring into high gear and uncover all that this fantastic city has to offer. The race, or rather, your adventure, begins now!

Things to do in Indianapolis, IN?

Find Movers for Your Indianapolis Relocation

Having savored the eclectic culture, exciting job opportunities, and welcoming communities that Indianapolis offers, it's easy to see why you'd choose this vibrant city as your new home. Great Guys Moving is ready to facilitate your journey. We have forged connections with top-rated, affordable movers who are equipped to handle your transition smoothly. Start your move the right way: simply provide your moving details and we'll link you with licensed, insured professionals who offer services tailored to your needs. Expedite your relocation experience while ensuring a stress-free process - request your free moving quote through Great Guys Moving now.

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