Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Indianapolis, IN
Considering a move to Indianapolis, IN? Home to over 880,000 residents, Indianapolis features affordable living with a median home price of $223,000 and average rent around $1,150. Commute times average just under 25 minutes, and the city boasts a lively urban scene plus notable universities like IUPUI and Butler. While crime rates are higher than national averages, Indy offers a vibrant culture, four distinct seasons, and a strong healthcare network—making it a practical and exciting choice for new residents.
Demographics - Indianapolis, IN
Demographics - Indianapolis, IN
Indianapolis is a diverse city of over 882,000 residents, with a median age of 34.3 and a balanced gender ratio. The population is primarily White (57%) and Black (29%), with notable Asian and other ethnic communities, and nearly 12% speak a language other than English at home. Its moderate density and youthful population contribute to the city’s dynamic urban atmosphere.
Population:
882,039
Density:
2,500 per sq mi
Median Age:
34.3
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
11.8%

Ethnic Composition
White:
56.9%
Black:
28.9%
Asian:
3.8%
Others:
10.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Indianapolis, IN?
Living in Indianapolis is relatively affordable, with a cost of living index below the national average and a median home value of $223,000. Utilities, groceries, and healthcare remain budget-friendly, making it an attractive option for both renters and homeowners. Modest property taxes and reasonable rents around $1,150 further enhance its appeal to new residents.
Median House Value:
$223,000
Gross Rent:
$1,150
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,240
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,310
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$490
State Taxes:
Low:
3.15%
|
High:
3.15%
Cost Of Living Index:
87.5
Grocery:
93.1
Housing:
72.8
Utilities:
99.3
Transportation:
88.2
Health Care:
93.5
Miscellaneous:
94.7
Crime
Is Indianapolis, IN a safe place to live?
Indianapolis experiences higher crime rates than many U.S. cities, with about 1 in 74 chance of being a victim of violent crime and 1 in 24 for property crime. While safety varies by neighborhood, residents can find secure areas and benefit from strong community initiatives. Awareness and informed neighborhood choices are key for newcomers.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
1,355
Property Crimes Per 100k:
4,206
Crime Index:
5,561
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 74
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 24
Weather
What is the weather like in Indianapolis, IN year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons, with warm summers averaging highs of 85°F and cold winters with lows near 21°F. The city receives about 42 inches of rainfall annually and experiences sunshine just over half the year. This climate supports a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year.

Winter
Min:
21°F
Max:
38°F

Spring
Min:
43°F
Max:
67°F

Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
85°F

Fall
Min:
44°F
Max:
69°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
42.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
53%
Neighbors
Indianapolis neighborhoods reflect a mix of incomes, with a median household income of nearly $59,000 and a poverty rate of 16%. Most adults have at least a high school diploma, and average commute times are under 25 minutes. The city's diverse population and reasonable rent make it accessible and community-oriented.
Median Income:
$36,000
Household Income:
$58,979
Family Income:
$69,400
Per Capita Income:
$32,093
Income Male:
$38,100
Income Female:
$34,200
Poverty Rate:
16.2%
Non English Speakers:
11.8%
Rent:
$1,150
Unemployment Rate:
4.2%
Public Transport Usage:
1.4%
Commute Time:
24.7 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
87.2%
Bachelors or More:
31.4%
Education
How are the schools in Indianapolis, IN?
Indianapolis offers a range of educational opportunities, from well-rated public schools such as North Central High School to private institutions like Cathedral High School. The city is also home to large universities, including IUPUI and Butler, supporting over 30,000 college students. This strong educational network provides quality options from K-12 through higher education.

Public Schools
Name:
North Central High School
Street:
1801 E 86th St
Phone:
317-259-5301
Students:
3,800
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.6
Name:
IPS Center for Inquiry School 2
Street:
725 N New Jersey St
Phone:
317-226-4202
Students:
400
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.3

Private Schools
Name:
Cathedral High School
Street:
5225 E 56th St
Phone:
317-542-1481
Students:
1,200

Colleges
Name:
Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI)
City:
Indianapolis
State:
IN
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
27,000
Name:
Butler University
City:
Indianapolis
State:
IN
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
5,500
Healthcare
Indianapolis is home to major hospitals like IU Health Methodist and Eskenazi Health, offering comprehensive medical and emergency services. With 2.4 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 91% health insurance coverage, quality care is widely accessible. The city’s healthcare infrastructure is robust, supporting both families and individuals.

Major Hospitals
Name:
IU Health Methodist Hospital
Address:
1701 N Senate Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46202
Phone:
(317) 962-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Eskenazi Health
Address:
720 Eskenazi Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46202
Phone:
(317) 880-0000
Type:
General & Trauma
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.7%
Health Care Index:
73.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Indianapolis, IN?
The housing market in Indianapolis features a median home price of $223,000 and average two-bedroom rent at $1,150. Over half of residents own their homes, and vacancy rates are moderate, providing options for both buyers and renters. Steady home appreciation and low foreclosure rates indicate a stable real estate environment.
Median Home Price:
$223,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,150
Owner Occupied Rate:
53.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.3%
New Construction Rate:
1.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Indianapolis residents are served by the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located downtown. The BMV offers essential driver and vehicle services, with helpful resources available online and by phone. New residents can easily access licensing, registration, and other state-required services.
State:
Indiana
Department:
Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Address:
100 N Senate Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46204
Phone:
1-888-692-6841
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.