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Moving to Indiana in 2024? Complete Moving Guide

This is a complete guide for Moving to Indiana.
Get all the information you need to know about moving to Indiana.

Moving to Indiana

Moving to a new state means everything changes including your way of living, amount of expenses and culture. Each state has a different culture and lifestyle and adapting it will help you feel better in a new place. If you are planning to move to Indiana, you must know that the cost of living in Indiana is lower than the national average. The state has a strong economy with a strong job market. The unemployment rate is lower than the national average which invites young professionals to start their careers. You can enjoy the cultural heritage in Indiana with a strong sense of community. Major cities of Indiana have good transportation systems, but some areas only rely on cars. Indiana experiences all four seasons, but you can always expect unpredictable weather with hail, snow or tornadoes. If you are moving to Indiana, you still need details about minor and major aspects of living in Indiana.

Indiana Demographics

Indiana boasts a diverse population, offering a blend of urban and rural lifestyles.

Male vs. Female Population of Indiana 2022

Gender	Population	Percentage
Male	3,073,246	49.2%
Female	3,172,904	50.8%
Total	6,246,150	100%

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Population Estimates Program (PEP), 2022

Male vs. Female Population by Age Groups in Indiana 2022

Age Group	Male	Female	Total
0-4	156,782	150,378	307,160
5-9	162,975	156,048	319,023
10-14	170,412	163,905	334,317
15-19	166,892	160,259	327,151
20-24	137,424	138,925	276,349
25-29	128,073	134,157	262,230
30-34	122,459	133,490	255,949
35-39	124,786	136,056	260,842
40-44	122,595	134,025	256,620
45-49	116,201	129,317	245,518
50-54	108,503	119,640	228,143
55-59	97,325	108,039	205,364
60-64	82,624	94,241	176,865
65-69	68,105	79,723	147,828
70-74	54,759	64,122	118,881
75-79	39,451	47,127	86,578
80-84	27,169	33,663	60,832
85+	21,139	28,501	49,640

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Population Estimates Program (PEP), 2022

Population Distribution by Ethnicity in Indiana 2022

Ethnicity	Population	Percentage
White alone	5,367,185	85.9%
Hispanic or Latino	457,621	7.3%
Black or African American alone	746,258	11.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native alone	73,895	1.2%
Asian alone	168,403	2.7%
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander	10,526	0.2%
Two or More Races	269,759	4.3%

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Population Estimates Program (PEP), 2022

Quick Facts of Indiana

Here are some intriguing facts about Indiana that offer a glimpse into the state's unique characteristics:

Indiana ranks as the 38th largest state by area in the United States.

The state is renowned for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home to the prestigious Indianapolis 500 race.

Indiana is often referred to as the "Crossroads of America" due to its extensive network of highways and railways.

The Hoosier State is rich in agricultural heritage, producing corn, soybeans, and livestock.

Indiana Dunes National Park, along Lake Michigan's southern shore, offers stunning landscapes and recreational activities.

Notable figures from Indiana include former U.S. Vice President Mike Pence, author Kurt Vonnegut, and basketball legend Larry Bird.

What are the top reasons to move to Indiana?

Moving is a big change, and you need strong reasons to move to a new state. In this section of our guide, we have listed some reasons that might encourage you to plan your move to Indiana-

Affordability: Indiana boasts a lower cost of living compared to many other states, making it an attractive destination for families and retirees.

Thriving Job Market: The state's diverse economy offers ample employment opportunities across various sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare, and technology.

Quality Education: Indiana is home to esteemed educational institutions, including Purdue University and Indiana University, providing access to top-notch education.

Rich Culture: From historic sites and museums to vibrant arts and music scenes, Indiana offers a rich cultural tapestry for residents to explore and enjoy.

Outdoor Recreation: With picturesque state parks, lakes, and trails, Indiana provides abundant opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, and camping.

Friendly Communities: Hoosiers are known for their hospitality and community spirit, fostering a welcoming environment for newcomers to settle and thrive.

Pros & Cons of Living in Indiana

As with any state, Indiana offers its own set of advantages and challenges:

Pros of Living in Indiana	Cons of Living in Indiana
Affordable Cost of Living	Harsh Winters with Snowfall
Strong Job Market and Economic Stability	Limited Access to Beaches and Mountains
Rich Cultural Heritage and Events	Humid Summers with High Temperatures
Diverse Outdoor Recreation Opportunities	Rural Areas may Lack Amenities
Friendly and Welcoming Communities	Some Areas Experience Tornadoes and Severe Weather

Best Places to Live in Indiana

When considering a move to Indiana, exploring its best cities and neighborhoods can help you find the perfect place to call home:

Place	Population	Unemployment Rate	Median Home Value
Carmel	99,889	2.3%	$382,400
Fishers	97,866	2.1%	$307,200
Zionsville	30,789	2.4%	$392,500
Westfield	43,975	2.5%	$309,200
Brownsburg	30,069	2.7%	$218,100
Greenwood	59,458	2.6%	$181,500
Noblesville	63,133	2.8%	$238,900
Avon	19,856	2.9%	$224,700
Plainfield	34,835	3.0%	$200,600
Columbus	48,688	3.1%	$176,300

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Indiana Department of Workforce Development, Zillow

Tip: When you've got a home to move in Indiana, getting the best moving quote will be your goal. Request moving company quotes to save on moving cost.

What are the best neighborhoods in Indiana?

Moving brings out many changes, and when you move to a new state, you will need an environment where you and your family can find friends and feel safe. You can find a perfect neighborhood before moving to Indiana by checking out some of the best neighborhoods in the state online.

Meridian-Kessler, Indianapolis: Known for its historic homes and tree-lined streets.

Broad Ripple, Indianapolis: A vibrant neighborhood with trendy shops, restaurants, and nightlife.

Carmel Arts and Design District, Carmel: Home to galleries, boutiques, and cultural events.

Old Northside, Indianapolis: Characterized by Victorian-era architecture and close proximity to downtown amenities.

Chatham Arch, Indianapolis: A charming neighborhood with historic charm and modern conveniences.

Irvington, Indianapolis: Known for its eclectic mix of homes, local businesses, and community events.

Lafayette Square, Indianapolis: Offers affordable housing options and easy access to amenities.

Historic Newburgh, Newburgh: Features quaint streets, riverfront views, and a strong sense of community.

Eagle Creek, Indianapolis: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts with its proximity to parks and recreational opportunities.

Geist, Fishers: Offers waterfront living and upscale amenities for residents. Source: Niche

Source: Niche

Cost of living in Indiana

The cost of living should be the first factor to consider before moving to a new state. If you are moving to Indiana, then explore all the parameters of cost of living to determine the financial benefits of moving there. In this section of our guide, we have compiled the data referring to the cost of living in Indiana.

Cost of Living by Categories in Indiana vs. USA 2022

Category	Indiana	United States
Groceries	91.2	100
Housing	78.5	100
Utilities	96.8	100
Transportation	92.3	100
Healthcare	85.6	100
Other	92.1	100

Source: Cost of Living Index, Council for Community and Economic Research, 2022

Median House Price in Indiana vs. USA 2022

Location	Median House Price
Indiana	$191,700
United States	$428,700

Source: National Association of Realtors, Median Existing-Home Price by State, September 2023

Median Rent Price in Indiana vs. USA 2022

Location	Median Rent Price
Indiana	$1,048
United States	$2,021

Source: National Association of Renters, Median Rent Price by State, September 2023

Housing Market in Indiana

The housing market in Indiana offers affordability and stability for prospective homebuyers:

Median Home Value: $191,700

Average Rental Cost: $1,048 per month

Housing Inventory: Moderate, with steady demand and new construction projects in key areas.

Recent Trends: Increasing interest from out-of-state buyers seeking affordable housing options and a higher quality of life. Source: Zillow, Indiana Association of Realtors

Indiana job market

Indiana's diverse economy provides abundant opportunities across various industries:

Number of Households by Income Level in Indiana

Income Level	Number of Households	Percentage of Households
Less than $25,000	537,126	10.6%
$25,000 to $49,999	831,324	16.4%
$50,000 to $74,999	815,302	16.1%
$75,000 to $99,999	664,750	13.1%
$100,000 to $149,999	691,103	13.6%
$150,000 to $199,999	447,187	8.8%
$200,000 or more	671,242	13.2%

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey, 2017-2021

Median Income in Indiana vs. USA

Location	Median Income
Indiana	$56,327
USA	$67,521
Difference	-$11,194

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey, 2017-2021

Unemployment Rate in Indiana vs. USA

Location	Unemployment Rate (September 2023)
Indiana	3.8%
USA	3.5%
Difference	0.3%

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Major industries in Indiana

Indiana's economy is driven by diverse sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare, and agriculture:

Manufacturing: Leading industries include automotive, aerospace, and machinery manufacturing.

Healthcare: The state boasts renowned hospitals, research institutions, and medical device companies.

Agriculture: Indiana ranks among the top producers of corn, soybeans, and pork in the United States.

Technology and Innovation: Emerging sectors such as biotechnology and information technology offer growth opportunities.

Logistics and Distribution: Strategic location and transportation infrastructure support a thriving logistics industry. Source: Indiana Economic Development Corporation

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Top Career options in Indiana

Indiana offers a range of high-paying jobs across various sectors:

Job Title	Average Salary	Entry Level Salary	Number of People
Software Engineer	$90,000	$60,000	30,000
Registered Nurse	$65,000	$50,000	25,000
Accountant	$60,000	$45,000	20,000
Sales Representative	$55,000	$40,000	15,000
Teacher	$50,000	$35,000	10,000
Truck Driver	$45,000	$30,000	5,000

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023

Biggest Companies in Indiana by City and Number of Employees

City	Company	Employees
Indianapolis	Eli Lilly and Company	33,000
Fort Wayne	Steel Dynamics, Inc.	8,000
Evansville	Berry Global Group, Inc.	24,000
South Bend	AM General LLC	8,000
Carmel	CNO Financial Group, Inc.	4,000
Fishers	Navient Corporation	6,000
Hammond	Lear Corporation	10,000
Bloomington	Cook Group Incorporated	12,000
Gary	U.S. Steel Corporation	14,000
Muncie	BorgWarner Inc.	7,000

Source: Indiana Economic Development Corporation

Best things to do in Indiana

Explore Indiana's diverse attractions and experiences:

Visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Museum to learn about the history of auto racing.

Explore the Indiana Dunes National Park for hiking, birdwatching, and stunning Lake Michigan views.

Discover Indiana's rich history at Conner Prairie, a living history museum in Fishers.

Enjoy outdoor recreation at Brown County State Park, known for its scenic trails and fall foliage.

Experience cultural festivals and events, such as the Indy Jazz Fest and Indiana State Fair.

Tour wineries and breweries along the Indiana Wine Trail and Hoosier Beer Trail.

Attend a performance at the Indiana Repertory Theatre or Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra.

Explore downtown Indianapolis, home to attractions like the Indianapolis Zoo, White River State Park, and Lucas Oil Stadium.

Discover quaint towns and scenic drives along Indiana's Historic Pathways or Indiana's Historic Lincoln Highway.

Sample regional cuisine, including Indiana pork tenderloin sandwiches, sugar cream pie, and Hoosier chili. Source: Visit Indiana

Schools in Indiana

Indiana offers a range of educational opportunities for students of all ages:

Elementary Schools in Indiana
Burkhart Elementary School, Indianapolis
Creekside Elementary School, Carmel
Union Elementary School, Zionsville
Forest Dale Elementary School, Carmel
West Clay Elementary School, Carmel Source: Niche

Middle Schools in Indiana
West Lafayette Junior-Senior High School, West Lafayette
Carmel Middle School, Carmel
Zionsville West Middle School, Zionsville
Creekside Middle School, Carmel
Fall Creek Junior High School, Fishers Source: Niche

High Schools in Indiana
Signature School Inc., Evansville
Carmel High School, Carmel
Zionsville Community High School, Zionsville
West Lafayette Junior-Senior High School, West Lafayette
Hamilton Southeastern High School, Fishers Source: Niche

Colleges and Universities in Indiana
Indiana University Bloomington
Purdue University, West Lafayette
University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame
Ball State University, Muncie
Butler University, Indianapolis Source: U.S. News & World Report

Which insurance is required in Indiana?

An insurance policy provides you with financial support in the adverse scenarios of your life. It can be health issues, vehicle trouble or can be death. This financial support is necessary for everyone. Some states across the US mandate a few insurance, and you need to know about all types of insurance that can help you while living in Indiana-

Auto Insurance: Mandatory for all drivers in Indiana, providing financial protection in case of accidents.

Home Insurance: Protects your home and belongings against damage or loss from hazards such as fire and theft.

Renters Insurance: Covers personal belongings and liability for tenants renting a property.

Health Insurance: Helps cover medical expenses, including doctor visits, prescriptions, and hospital stays.

Life Insurance: Provides financial support to beneficiaries in the event of the policyholder's death.

Disability Insurance: Offers income replacement if you become unable to work due to illness or injury.

Long-term Care Insurance: Covers expenses for long-term care services, such as nursing homes or in-home care.

Umbrella Insurance: Provides additional liability coverage beyond what is covered by standard home and auto policies. Source: Indiana Department of Insurance

Taxes in Indiana

Understanding tax obligations is essential for residents of Indiana:

Income Taxes: Indiana imposes a flat rate of 3.23% on individual income, with various deductions and credits available.

Property Taxes: Assessed based on the assessed value of real property, with exemptions available for certain categories of property owners.

Sales Tax: Indiana has a state sales tax rate of 7%, with additional local taxes in some areas.

Excise Taxes: Levied on specific goods and services, including gasoline, tobacco, and alcoholic beverages. Source: Indiana Department of Revenue

CONCLUSION

This comprehensive guide provides essential information for individuals considering a move to Indiana, covering various aspects such as housing, job market, schools, insurance, and taxes. Whether you're seeking affordable living, career opportunities, or vibrant cultural experiences, Indiana offers a diverse range of options for residents to explore and enjoy.

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FAQs

1. What should you prioritize when moving homes?

Ans: When you plan a move, your priority should be securing your belongings while they are in transit. This can be done by hiring a reputable and experienced moving company. Pick a mover that has been in the moving industry for years with good reviews and transparent pricing. A well-planned move is easy and efficient, so get a moving planner and moving checklist to get everything in a proper way.
2. What are some of the best things to do in Indiana?

Ans: Explore these places to experience the charm of the Hoosier State

Visit the Eiteljorg Museum to experience Art and Culture. This museum aims to foster an appreciation and understanding of art, history, and cultures.

Visit Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo with your family to gain experiences such as animal feedings and various rides.

Visit the Snite Museum of Art to explore an extensive collection of over 25,000 artworks.

Visit Indiana University Bloomington to learn about strong sports programs, fielding competitive teams in baseball, basketball, soccer, and football.

Discover Natural Beauty at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore where you can enjoy bird watching, kite flying, and more.

Step Back in Time at Lanier Mansion State Historic Site

Explore vintage RVs from iconic brands like Airstream and Winnebago at the RV/MH Hall of Fame Museum

Engage with History at the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

Visit the Studebaker National Museum which showcases a diverse range of automobiles, wagons, carriages, and military vehicles pivotal to American history.
3. What are the fastest growing career options in Indiana?

Ans: To learn about the career opportunities and related details explore our moving guide- https://www.vanlinesmove.com/moving-to-indiana
4. What are the top 10 cities for job opportunities in Indiana?

Ans: Top 10 Cities for Job Opportunities in Indiana

Zionsville

Carmel

Fishers

St. John

Noblesville

Greenwood

Crown Point

Columbus

Westfield

Plainfield
5. What guides are available for moving to different cities in Indiana?

Ans: Explore Van Lines Move Moving Guide to Indiana at https://www.vanlinesmove.com/moving-to-indiana. You can get all the details here.
6. How do people typically commute to work in Indiana?

Ans: In Indiana, the majority of residents opt for solo driving when commuting to work. Approximately 83% of Indianans drive their own car alone. Carpooling is the next most common method, with around 9% of the population sharing rides with others. Only 1% of Indianans rely on mass transit to get to their jobs.
7. Why should someone consider moving to Indiana?

Ans: These are the reasons one should move to Indiana-

Affordable housing options

The cost of living here is significantly lower

Boasts a vibrant art and music scene

The job market in Indiana is thriving with plentiful job opportunities Supportive environment with ample resources and networking possibilities

There is a diverse range of foods making foodies delighted

Perfect place for Outdoor enthusiasts

Disclaimer: The information provided in this guide is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. It is recommended to conduct thorough research and consult relevant experts before making any decisions related to relocation.

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