Everything You Should Know Before Moving to West Indianapolis, IN
Thinking of moving to West Indianapolis, IN? With a friendly population of around 14,500, this community offers affordable living—median home prices are just $160,000, and rents average $980. Commutes are quick at about 22 minutes, and you’ll enjoy all four seasons with over 54% sunny days. While crime rates are higher than average, residents benefit from easy access to major hospitals, local schools, and proximity to downtown Indianapolis. Check out local costs, housing, and educational options below to see if West Indianapolis is a fit for you.
Demographics - West Indianapolis, IN
Demographics - West Indianapolis, IN
West Indianapolis is home to about 14,500 residents with a median age of 35, reflecting a balanced blend of families and young adults. The community is diverse, with over half identifying as White and nearly a quarter as Black, while 11% speak a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density and even gender ratio contribute to a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere.
Population:
14,500
Density:
2,100 per sq mi
Median Age:
35.2
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
11.0%

Ethnic Composition
White:
54.1%
Black:
24.9%
Asian:
1.8%
Others:
19.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in West Indianapolis, IN?
Living in West Indianapolis is notably affordable, with a median home value of $160,000 and average rents around $980. The overall cost of living index is 88.5, which is below the national average, making it attractive for budget-conscious movers. Residents benefit from reasonable utility costs and state income taxes set at 3.23%.
Median House Value:
$160,000
Gross Rent:
$980
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,180
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,180
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
3.23%
|
High:
3.23%
Cost Of Living Index:
88.5
Grocery:
93.0
Housing:
76.0
Utilities:
92.1
Transportation:
97.5
Health Care:
87.3
Miscellaneous:
90.4
Crime
Is West Indianapolis, IN a safe place to live?
Crime rates in West Indianapolis are higher than national averages, with about 830 violent crimes and 4,200 property crimes per 100,000 residents. Residents have a 1 in 120 chance of experiencing violent crime and a 1 in 24 chance of property crime. It's important for newcomers to consider safety precautions and research local neighborhoods before moving.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
830
Property Crimes Per 100k:
4,200
Crime Index:
5,030
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 120
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 24
Weather
What is the weather like in West Indianapolis, IN year-round?
Residents in West Indianapolis experience all four seasons, with winter lows averaging 21°F and summer highs reaching 85°F. The area receives about 42 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 54% of the year. This climate appeals to those who appreciate varied weather and distinct seasonal changes.

Winter
Min:
21°F
Max:
37°F

Spring
Min:
43°F
Max:
67°F

Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
85°F

Fall
Min:
46°F
Max:
69°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
42.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
The median household income in West Indianapolis is around $49,600, with a poverty rate of 22.4%. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and average commute times are a convenient 22 minutes. The community is working-class, with a small percentage relying on public transportation.
Median Income:
$37,800
Household Income:
$49,600
Family Income:
$58,300
Per Capita Income:
$23,900
Income Male:
$31,200
Income Female:
$28,800
Poverty Rate:
22.4%
Non English Speakers:
11.0%
Rent:
$980
Unemployment Rate:
5.5%
Public Transport Usage:
3.1%
Commute Time:
22.1 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
82.6%
Bachelors or More:
13.2%
Education
How are the schools in West Indianapolis, IN?
Families in West Indianapolis have access to both public and private schools, including James A. Garfield School 31 and Saint Anthony Catholic School. Student-to-teacher ratios are favorable, and higher education opportunities are close by, with IUPUI just three miles away. The area offers solid educational choices for children and adults looking to continue their studies.

Public Schools
Name:
James A. Garfield School 31
Street:
307 Lincoln St
Phone:
317-226-4231
Students:
420
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.7
Name:
George Washington Community High School
Street:
2215 W Washington St
Phone:
317-693-5555
Students:
820
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.6

Private Schools
Name:
Saint Anthony Catholic School
Street:
349 N Warman Ave
Phone:
317-636-3739
Students:
210

Colleges
Name:
Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI)
City:
Indianapolis
State:
IN
Distance:
3 miles
Students:
27,000
Name:
Marian University
City:
Indianapolis
State:
IN
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
4,100
Healthcare
West Indianapolis provides quality healthcare access, with major hospitals like Eskenazi Health and IU Health Methodist Hospital nearby. There are about 2.4 physicians per 1,000 residents, and nearly 90% of locals have health insurance coverage. Emergency services and a strong healthcare network ensure comprehensive medical support for the community.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Eskenazi Health
Address:
720 Eskenazi Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46202
Phone:
(317) 880-0000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
IU Health Methodist Hospital
Address:
1701 N Senate Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46202
Phone:
(317) 962-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.1%
Health Care Index:
71.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in West Indianapolis, IN?
The housing market in West Indianapolis is affordable, with median home prices at $160,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom at $980. About half of the homes are owner-occupied, and the area has seen a healthy home appreciation rate of 7.6% over the past year. Rental options are plentiful, with a vacancy rate of 9.3%.
Median Home Price:
$160,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$980
Owner Occupied Rate:
49.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.3%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.6%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Residents of West Indianapolis are served by the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located at 100 N Senate Ave in Indianapolis. The DMV provides essential services like licensing, registration, and title transfers, and can be reached at 1-888-692-6841 or online at in.gov/bmv. Access to these services is straightforward for new and established residents alike.
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.