What’s It Actually Like Living in Indiana These Days?

Maybe you’ve been considering a move to Indiana, but you’re not sure what living there is actually like. Before you pack up that moving truck, you need intel on the Hoosier State. From the cost of living to the people to the best places to eat and hang out, we’ve got the inside scoop to help you decide if planting roots in Indiana is the right move for you.  

An Overview of Living in Indiana 

The Midwest Charm 

Indiana has that quintessential Midwest charm with friendly people, rolling farmland and small towns galore. If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle, Indy’s relaxed way of life will appeal to you. People here value community, faith and hard work. 

Centrally Location

Indiana’s central U.S. location offers unparalleled accessibility. Major metropolitan areas like Chicago and St. Louis are within easy reach, providing the opportunity to enjoy the cultural and professional offerings of these bustling hubs while maintaining a more relaxed lifestyle back home. 

Community Matters  

Indiana fosters a strong sense of community. Whether you settle in a charming small town or a vibrant city neighborhood, you’ll likely encounter friendly faces and a welcoming atmosphere. Additionally, the state boasts a rich history, evident in its museums, cultural events and architectural gems. 

Affordable Living 

The cost of living in Indiana is well below the national average, especially for housing. You’ll get a lot of bang for your buck, whether you opt for a historic home in a leafy suburb or a hip loft downtown. Taxes are lower here too, with no state income tax on retirement income. 

The Great Outdoors 

From the Great Lakes to the Ohio River, water plays a big role in life here. You can go boating, fishing, swimming or just enjoy a lakeside picnic. Indiana also has a surprising number of natural areas like Brown County State Park, home to scenic trails, rivers and waterfalls. Other options include golfing, cycling or watching the sunset on the farm. 

Family-Friendly Environment 

Indiana is an especially great place to raise a family. It has a low crime rate, good schools and a wholesome, kid-friendly culture. There are lots of spots for family vacations too, like Holiday World amusement park, the Indianapolis Zoo and the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis which is the largest of its kind in the world. 

Cultural Attractions 

While Indiana has a small-town feel, it also hosts some world-class cultural attractions. Indianapolis has a symphony orchestra, theaters, museums and hosts major music festivals. Sports are also huge here, with events like the Indy 500 drawing hundreds of thousands of fans each year. Between the culture, sports, natural scenery and affordability, Indiana offers a little something for everyone. 

Weather 

Indiana has a humid continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Summer highs average around 85 F, while winter lows drop below freezing. Indiana sees all four seasons, though spring and fall can be short. Severe weather like tornadoes, flooding and blizzards can also impact the state. If weather is a concern, consider states further south like Kentucky or west like Illinois, Missouri and Kansas where temperatures are a bit milder. Michigan and Ohio also see harsh winters, while summers in states like Wisconsin and Minnesota tend to be more comfortable. 

Some Realities of Living in the Hoosier State 

The lowest cost of living in the Midwest comes with some downsides. For starters, the weather in Indiana can be unpleasant, especially in the winter. Cold, gray days are common from December through February, and parts of the state average over 40 inches of snow each year. If you don’t like bundling up or shoveling your driveway, the winters may make you want to move south. 

Limited Cultural Scene

Compared to larger states, Indiana has a more limited pool of cultural hubs and attractions. If you prefer an active social and cultural scene, Indiana’s options may feel lacking. 

Location-Based Job Opportunities 

While the cost of living in Indiana is low, so are wages and job opportunities compared to other states. Outside of a few industries like manufacturing, agriculture and technology, many well-paying jobs can be scarce. Career and economic mobility may feel limited for some. The job market depends on your location within the state, with more options in cities and surrounding suburbs. However, in many rural areas of Indiana, the pickings can be slim. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Indiana 

What Are Hoosiers Like? 

Hoosiers, as Indiana residents are called, are typically friendly, down-to-earth and community oriented. People tend to be polite, hospitable and place a high value on faith and family. However, some rural and small-town communities can be distrustful of outsiders. In general, expect warm greetings, lighthearted humor and a helping hand from your neighbors. 

What Is There to Do for Fun? 

Indiana has a lot to offer in terms of recreation and entertainment. Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, fishing and boating at state parks and lakes. Take in a sporting event like basketball, auto racing or football. Experience culture at museums, theaters and music venues. Stroll through charming small towns with shops, dining and festivals. Visit wineries, breweries and distilleries. Try your luck at one of the casinos. There’s plenty to keep you occupied on weekends. 

How Are the Schools? 
Education in Indiana ranks slightly below average compared to other states. Public schools tend to perform better in suburban and rural areas versus inner cities. Funding is limited, but some districts offer strong academic, arts and sports programs. Private and charter school options are available, especially in larger towns and cities. College sports, especially basketball, are very popular with options like Indiana University and Purdue University. 

From affordable living and Midwestern niceness to cool up-and-coming cities and tons of quirky attractions, the Crossroads of America has plenty to offer. If you’re looking for a place with quiet charm that provides a slower pace of life, great schools and friendly communities, Indiana could be an underrated option worth considering. No, it’s not for everyone – but the Hoosier life just might be calling your name. 

Want to learn more about the state of Indiana? Considering a move to another state? Check out our city and state guides.  

Ready to move to Indiana? There’s no better time to request a quote. 

Working with a professional moving company like Mayflower can take the hassle out of cross-country moves to Indiana. Our customized, full-service moving packages can cover all your moving needs. Mayflower’s experienced agents can manage storage, packing, unpacking, car shipping, debris removal and more. 

When you’re ready to make a move, our blog offers a wealth of ideas to streamline your move and help you settle in. And our digital magazine, Welcome HOME, can help simplify and streamline your move.