Largest cities in Indiana

Indiana, known for its Hoosier hospitality and vibrant communities, is a state with a rich cultural and economic history. With a population of approximately 6.8 million, it ranks as the 17th most populated state in the U.S. Indiana has experienced steady population growth, reflecting its economic vitality and high quality of life. Bordered by Michigan to the north, Ohio to the east, Kentucky to the south, and Illinois to the west, Indiana offers a mix of urban and rural living across its roughly 570 cities and towns.

Living in Indiana provides residents with a balanced lifestyle, combining the benefits of a strong job market, affordable living, and a rich cultural heritage. The state's moderate population density allows for vibrant community life and ample opportunities for recreation and relaxation. Indiana's economy is diverse, with strengths in manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare. The state's steady population growth supports sustainable development and economic stability. The AreaVibes list of the largest cities in Indiana, based on data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey, provides a detailed look at Indiana cities by population, highlighting the state's most significant urban centers.

Indianapolis Population: 899,521 Livability Score: 76
Area Size: 936 KM2 Density (sq mi): 2,489 Med. Household Income: $75,736
Living in Indianapolis, IN, known as 'The Crossroads of America,' offers a unique blend of Midwestern charm and urban amenities. Located in central Indiana, Indianapolis is a large city that serves as a major economic and cultural hub. Major nearby cities like Chicago and Louisville enhance its status as a central point in the region. Indianapolis's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.
Fort Wayne Population: 274,188 Livability Score: 84
Area Size: 287 KM2 Density (sq mi): 2,478 Med. Household Income: $76,578
Fort Wayne, IN, known as 'The Summit City,' offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern urban amenities. Located in northeastern Indiana, Fort Wayne is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Indianapolis and Chicago enhance its status as a central point in the region. Fort Wayne's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.
Evansville Population: 121,758 Livability Score: 63
Area Size: 123 KM2 Density (sq mi): 2,573 Med. Household Income: $62,565
Evansville, Indiana, known as "The River City," is a vibrant community located along the Ohio River. With its rich history, diverse cultural scene, and strong economy, Evansville offers a high quality of life for its residents. The city's blend of historic charm and modern amenities makes living in Evansville an attractive option.
South Bend Population: 104,796 Livability Score: 64
Area Size: 108 KM2 Density (sq mi): 2,523 Med. Household Income: $64,798
South Bend, Indiana, known as "The Bend," is a historic and vibrant community located near Chicago and Indianapolis. With its rich industrial history, strong local economy, and welcoming community, South Bend offers a high quality of life for its residents. The city's blend of historic charm and modern amenities makes living in South Bend an attractive option for families and professionals.
Carmel Population: 101,609 Livability Score: 84
Area Size: 123 KM2 Density (sq mi): 2,141 Med. Household Income: $168,640
Carmel, IN, known as 'The Roundabout City,' offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and modern urban amenities. Located in Hamilton County, Carmel is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Indianapolis (16 miles) and Fishers (9 miles) enhance its status as a central point in the region. Carmel's blend of scenic landscapes, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.
Fishers Population: 96,166 Livability Score: 83
Area Size: 91 KM2 Density (sq mi): 2,750 Med. Household Income: $162,019
Living in Fishers, IN offers a perfect blend of suburban tranquility and modern amenities. Located just north of Indianapolis, Fishers is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, excellent schools, and vibrant community life. The city provides a safe, welcoming environment for residents of all ages.
Bloomington Population: 87,630 Livability Score: 84
Area Size: 60 KM2 Density (sq mi): 3,769 Med. Household Income: $60,737
Living in Bloomington, IN offers a vibrant blend of academic energy, cultural richness, and natural beauty. Home to Indiana University, Bloomington is a college town that thrives on the arts, education, and outdoor activities. The university's influence is evident in the city’s diverse cultural offerings, from performances at the IU Auditorium to exhibitions at the Eskenazi Museum of Art.
Hammond Population: 78,518 Livability Score: 70
Area Size: 59 KM2 Density (sq mi): 3,449 Med. Household Income: $69,448
Gary Population: 77,151 Livability Score: 73
Area Size: 129 KM2 Density (sq mi): 1,552 Med. Household Income: $47,575
Lafayette Population: 75,191 Livability Score: 74
Area Size: 76 KM2 Density (sq mi): 2,560 Med. Household Income: $69,648

Full list of the largest cities in Indiana

Rank Location Population Area KM2 Median Income Livability Score 
1 Indianapolis 899,521 936 $75,736 76
2 Fort Wayne 274,188 287 $76,578 84
3 Evansville 121,758 123 $62,565 63
4 South Bend 104,796 108 $64,798 64
5 Carmel 101,609 123 $168,640 84
6 Fishers 96,166 91 $162,019 83
7 Bloomington 87,630 60 $60,737 84
8 Hammond 78,518 59 $69,448 70
9 Gary 77,151 129 $47,575 73
10 Lafayette 75,191 76 $69,648 74
11 Muncie 69,215 71 $50,871 80
12 Noblesville 66,802 83 $125,781 85
13 Terre Haute 62,758 89 $55,666 75
14 Kokomo 60,311 95 $71,830 68
15 Greenwood 60,157 72 $100,193 73
16 Anderson 56,057 110 $55,268 60
17 Elkhart 53,808 69 $58,735 68
18 Mishawaka 51,230 46 $67,363 76
19 West Lafayette 50,904 35 $46,440 90
20 Columbus 50,148 72 $99,744 79
21 Lawrence 50,012 52 $92,874 71
22 Jeffersonville 49,450 88 $83,377 83
23 Westfield 42,840 77 $147,080 70
24 New Albany 37,605 39 $73,431 73
25 Portage 37,504 66 $90,043 71
26 Richmond 36,416 62 $60,944 83
27 Merrillville 35,881 86 $95,323 75
28 Goshen 35,691 43 $73,743 84
29 Plainfield 35,538 65 $95,406 74
30 Valparaiso 34,723 42 $84,416 81
31 Michigan City 32,068 51 $68,228 81
32 Granger 31,533 65 $152,043 77
33 Crown Point 31,396 46 $120,514 76
34 Schererville 29,136 38 $110,707 66
35 East Chicago 28,835 36 $52,282 64
36 Hobart 28,763 68 $92,713 67
37 Zionsville 28,737 139 $205,562 78
38 Marion 28,405 40 $52,769 65
39 Brownsburg 27,585 41 $132,595 75
40 Franklin 26,224 34 $88,984 64
41 Greenfield 23,175 35 $87,339 73
42 Highland 23,168 18 $99,456 76
43 Munster 23,103 20 $130,714 80
44 Clarksville 22,296 26 $69,304 76
45 La Porte 21,881 30 $62,134 74
46 Seymour 20,201 31 $66,299 68
47 Shelbyville 19,667 29 $73,509 63
48 St. John 18,872 32 $156,293 73
49 Avon 18,517 48 $138,833 74
50 Logansport 18,342 27 $57,571 78

Methodology

To compile the list of the largest cities in Indiana, AreaVibes used census data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). The American Community Survey releases updated estimates annually, offering a valuable resource for understanding the evolving dynamics within communities. These estimates are crucial for officials, community leaders, businesses, and local residents as they provide insights into demographic, economic, and social changes. By analyzing ACS data, stakeholders can make informed decisions, plan for future developments, and address the needs of their communities effectively. The detailed population information from the ACS helps track trends, allocate resources, and implement policies that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Map of the population Density by State

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The map above serves as an excellent tool for discovering the most and least densely populated states across the United States. By highlighting both the states with the highest and lowest population density, it offers a comprehensive view of the nation's demographic landscape. This visual representation allows users to easily compare different regions, making it a valuable resource for anyone considering relocation or investment opportunities. Living in high density states could give you access to the following benefits: additional economic opportunities, enhanced amenities, improved health care, better infrastructure and technological advancement. Less densely poupulated states on the other hand, often have a lower cost of living, reduced traffic, closer-knit communities, abundant natural spaces and lower crime rates.