People on the beach in Michigan City, Indiana. Editorial credit: Lewis Photo Studio / Shutterstock.com

9 Best Places To Call Home In Indiana In 2025

For families seeking a slower pace of life and greater value, the Midwest offers the perfect opportunity. More specifically, the state of Indiana is home to several small towns and cities that provide an affordable cost of living and all the amenities associated with major cities, such as Indianapolis and Fort Wayne. If you’re looking for a sign to pack up your house and head for greener pastures, this is it! Set your sights on Indiana and put the hustle and bustle of city life behind you with these nine cities.

Corydon

Corydon is located about 30 minutes due west of Louisville, KY. This is a great feature, as visitors can fly into Louisville's large airport. With an average home price of $257,000, Corydon is an excellent option for families looking to save on housing. The small town is home to just over 3,000 people and is about 13 miles from the Ohio River.

Old Indiana Capitol and Historic Marker in Corydon, Indiana. Image credit: I, W.marsh via Wikimedia Commons.

If you’re a history buff, you will enjoy the Corydon Capitol State Historic Site, or maybe a trip to Zimmerman Art Glass to view local art. Both spots are just off Corydon's main drag, Capitol Avenue. Head to the Harrison County Fairgrounds for a unique experience, such as a concert or show; this is the exact location where the town hosts its wine festival, Southern Indiana Uncorked.

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Madison

About 12,100 people call Madison home. This city is situated in Jefferson County along the Ohio River, just north of Milton, Kentucky. Madison is also located approximately 25 minutes south of the Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge, making it an excellent option for those who love the outdoors. The town’s median home price is around $237,000 as of October 2025.

Jefferson County Courthouse in Madison, Indiana.

In 2006, the majority of Madison's downtown area was designated a National Historic Landmark. History buffs will enjoy a visit to the beautiful Lanier Mansion State Historic Site, followed by lunch at the Off Broadway Taproom on Main Street! On a clear day, walk along the riverfront along the Heritage Trail and enjoy the views!

New Albany

Small-town autumn street scene with colorful trees lining both sides. A theater with "Classic" sign is on the left. Clear sky, calm atmosphere. — A view of Pearl Street in downtown New Albany, looking north. The hills of Floyds Knobs can be seen in the distance. Stumbledwalker via Wikimedia Commons.

New Albany is a stone’s throw from Jeffersonville, as it is also located along the Indiana-Kentucky border, across from Louisville. The most recent census data shows New Albany is home to just under 38,000 residents. The average home price is also significantly lower than the state average, at $232,000. New Albany is a great relocation option for folks who love the outdoors.

Elegant Victorian-style mansion with ornate arched windows, a mansard roof, and a wrought iron fence, set against a partly cloudy blue sky. — The historic Culbertson Mansion in New Albany, Indiana. Image credit Thomas Kelley via Shutterstock

Head to Falling Run Park to enjoy a hike or Riverfront Park to watch boats come into the boat ramp. The town’s Main Street boasts a surprisingly robust restaurant scene; try Coffee Crossing and The Exchange Pub + Kitchen for your morning joe and afternoon lunch.

Richmond

Historic stone building with a slate roof, surrounded by lush green trees, sits under a clear blue sky. Cars are parked in front. — The Wayne County Courthouse in Richmond, Indiana. Editorial credit: Roberto Galan / Shutterstock.com

Richmond’s average home price is almost half the state’s average, at just $145,900, making it an excellent option for families looking for a more affordable cost of living. The East Fork Whitewater River borders the town to the east. For uninhibited river views, head to Wayne County Veterans Memorial Park.

Car junkies will enjoy a trip to the Model T. Museum, followed by some BBQ and live music from Firehouse BBQ and Blues. Families can also spend the weekends catching a local production at the Richmond Civic Theatre, located on E Main Street, or heading to the local farmers’ market in the Jack Elstro Plaza.

Goshen

Goshen is located in the northern portion of Indiana, about 30 minutes from the nearest airport in Elkhart, IN. The average home cost of $270,000 is in line with Indiana’s state average. Goshen is home to several beautiful nature reserves, like Rogers Park in the north and Shanklin Park in the south.

Elkhart County Courthouse in Goshen, Indiana.

Both parks are situated along the Elkhart River. The town’s Main Street is centered around the Elkhart County Circuit Court building, which is one of the most beautiful architectural feats in the area. N Main Street is also dotted with several dining and shopping options, such as The Table at 108, which serves family-friendly Italian fare.

Michigan City

A historic lighthouse with a red roof and green trim stands amid lush greenery under a clear sky. The scene exudes a serene, timeless charm. — Michigan City harbor on a beautiful late summer morning in Michigan City, Indiana.

Michigan City exudes small-town charm, boasting a population of just 30,000 people. The lakeside retreat sits along its namesake, Lake Michigan. Shockingly, the home prices in the area don’t reflect the stunning views. For a median price of $183,600, prospective buyers can look to purchase a single-family home in the downtown area.

Sandy beach on a sunny day with people relaxing under bright umbrellas, families strolling, and a lighthouse in the distance by the blue ocean. — People on the beach in Michigan City, Indiana. Editorial credit: Lewis Photo Studio / Shutterstock.com

Perhaps the most famous attraction in the town is the Old Lighthouse Museum, where admission is just $10 for adults and free for children under 14. After the museum, families may want to cross the bridge and walk to the Michigan City Zoo. For a date night, consider grabbing a bite along Washington Street and heading to the Lubeznik Center for the Arts to enjoy a rotating art display overlooking the water.

Greenfield

A quaint small-town street with historic brick buildings, American flags, parked cars, and clear blue skies. A calm, inviting atmosphere. — The business district on Main Street, Greenfield, Indiana. Image credit Roberto Galan via Shutterstock

Greenfield’s average house prices hover around $283,000, making it an approachable housing market. The town itself has about 26,000 residents. Greenfield is an excellent opportunity for families who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and head to a more rural area.

Historic courthouse with red-tiled roofs, ornate towers, and arched windows under a clear blue sky; cars parked in front. — The Hancock County Courthouse in Greenfield, Indiana.

The main drag is clustered along E Main Street, where folks can pay a visit to the Riley Home Museum, where the author spent his life, or grab a drink at the Wooden Bear Brewing Co. Outdoorsy people will enjoy 18 holes at the Hawk’s Tail of Greenfield or a hike along Brandywine Creek in Brandywine Park.

Franklin

Franklin, Indiana, is a historic town with a population of just 24,000. Franklin’s downtown features Victorian-style homes and local businesses, such as the delicious Millie’s Ice Cream Co. The average home price in the area hovers around $274,000 as of October 2025.

Historic downtown street with colorful, ornate building facades, displaying signs for a boutique and land title office. Cars line the sunny street. — Franklin Commercial Historic District in Franklin, Indiana. (By Missvain, CC BY 4.0, Wikimedia Commons)

The south side of town is situated along Youngs Creek; to enjoy a sunny day by the water, head to Province Park. The park features scenic hiking trails and a skateboard park, complete with picnic tables and grills, providing a great spot for outdoor activities. Check the monthly event calendar at Garment Factory Events to make sure you don’t miss local talent, events, and performances.

Avon

Curved road passing under a tall, stone bridge surrounded by lush green trees. Soft light filters through, creating a serene, peaceful atmosphere. — Avon Haunted Bridge in Washington Township Park. Michaeldavisson - Own work. Wikimedia Commons.

The small town of Avon is situated just 13 miles west of Indianapolis, making it an excellent option for families seeking proximity to a major airport and a big city. The average cost of a single-family home in Avon is $354,800 as of October 2025. The west side of town harbors most of its attractions, like Avon Town Hall Park and the Haunted Bridge.

Brick town hall with white columns and arched windows, surrounded by landscaped gardens under a blue sky. A flagpole stands in front. — Avon Town Hall. Michaeldavisson - Own work. Wikimedia Commons.

Acon Town Hall Park features a large public lake for fishing, along with a disc golf course and several hiking trails that are complete with picnic tables and a playground. The Haunted Bridge is a local legend. The 115-year-old bridge is rumored to be the spot of several of the town’s ghosts; visit if you dare! In the summer, take your family to the Washington Township Park Splash Pad for an afternoon of (totally free) fun in the sun.

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Many Americans don’t realize Indiana punches well above its weight class in charm and affordability. Home to several small towns and cities, Indiana is an excellent option for families looking to relocate from a big city or simply looking for a slower pace of life. Within the state, you can experience all four seasons, visit local boutiques and restaurants, and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities at an affordable price. Ditch the big city and head to Indiana; you won’t regret it!

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