The best places to live in Indianapolis
There is a wonderful range of areas and suburbs in Indianapolis that suits just about every taste and budget. Those keen on a bustling urban environment should opt for one of the zones in the vibey downtown area. Families more inclined to some peace and quiet should look into the tranquil environs towards the leafy outer edges of the city.
Below are a few recommended areas and suburbs in Indianapolis for newcomers and expats.
Neighbourhoods for young people in Indianapolis
Downtown
As in many major US cities, Indianapolis’s downtown area is rather expensive. The trade-off for the high rental costs is that residents have easy access to a wide range of amenities and hot spots. Restaurants, cultural landmarks, sports stadiums, museums, bars, and nightlife spots are within walking distance, and there’s also excellent access to public transport. The Wholesale District is one of the most sought after, but the wider downtown area has neighbourhoods to suit different budgets and tastes. Housing runs from converted warehouse lofts to luxury high-rise condos.
Fountain Square
Just southeast of downtown, the ethnically and socially diverse Fountain Square is a haven for artistic types, so new arrivals and expats of that inclination will fit in here really well. With something of a small-town feel in a big city, the little neighbourhood resembles a European village to an extent, with its town square and central fountain.
It’s a vibrant suburb with eclectic eateries, striking architecture, and a range of attractions and entertainment, particularly visual, literary, and performance art. Virginia Avenue is a stunning walk, particularly for foodies looking to indulge in a variety of cuisines. Fountain Square also has easy interstate access for commuters.
Broad Ripple
Popular among young professionals, Broad Ripple is a fun neighbourhood about six miles north of downtown Indianapolis. Dotted with unique and varied restaurants, cafés, and bars, the suburb also has an artistic vibe that attracts young and old alike. Young families and professionals new to Indianapolis will find plenty of housing options in the form of single-family bungalows, smaller, older apartments, and lofts. Small local businesses abound, and newcomers will discover breweries, comedy clubs, and bars around every corner.
Family-friendly neighbourhoods in Indianapolis
Bates-Hendricks
The exciting and up-and-coming neighbourhood of Bates-Hendricks lies just south of downtown. The little suburb is in a great location, close enough to downtown for a walk or a short bike ride, but also far enough to eliminate most of its noisy bustle. Characterised by turn-of-the-century homes, unique buildings, and a strong sense of community, Bates-Hendricks has everything from modest single-family bungalows to two-storey living.
Young professionals have been flocking to this growing suburb over the last few years, mainly owing to its reasonable rental prices and relatively low cost of living. Its proximity to downtown attractions and restaurants makes it an appealing option for newcomers and expats looking to get by without a car. Bicycle lanes also make for easy commuting about town.
Irvington
Irvington is Indianapolis’s largest protected historic district, about five miles (8km) east of downtown along the old National Road. It was founded in 1870 as one of the city’s earliest planned suburbs and used to be home to Butler University. It still carries that scholarly, slightly eccentric character. In Irvington, tree-lined streets accompany the many beautiful Queen Anne cottages, Craftsman bungalows, and Tudor revivals, the vast majority of which predate 1960.
The neighbourhood is walkable, and there are local shops and eateries clustered along a compact stretch of Washington Street. Schools are close at hand, and the community’s active civic council organises events year-round. Easy access to I-465 and the IndyGo bus network keeps commute times manageable.
Woodruff Place
Recognised as Indianapolis’s first planned residential suburb, Woodruff Place is located a mile east of downtown. New arrivals and expats in Indianapolis looking for more space and bigger homes will want to browse here. The neighbourhood is known for its handsome Victorian-era homes and other classic and charming architecture. It’s the perfect area for those who like walks and bicycle rides in lush surroundings but also want easy access to downtown restaurants and other attractions.