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: 869,387 Livability Score: 76
Area Size: 936 KM2 Density (sq mi): 2,404 Med. Household Income: $50,813
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: 268,378 Livability Score: 84
Area Size: 287 KM2 Density (sq mi): 2,423 Med. Household Income: $51,454
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: 118,414 Livability Score: 66
Area Size: 123 KM2 Density (sq mi): 2,501 Med. Household Income: $42,623
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: 102,686 Livability Score: 68
Area Size: 108 KM2 Density (sq mi): 2,446 Med. Household Income: $42,657
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: 99,130 Livability Score: 83
Area Size: 123 KM2 Density (sq mi): 2,020 Med. Household Income: $115,109
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: 93,488 Livability Score: 82
Area Size: 91 KM2 Density (sq mi): 2,621 Med. Household Income: $108,361
Fishers, IN - A Thriving Suburb"; echo "
Bloomington Population: 84,691 Livability Score: 83
Area Size: 60 KM2 Density (sq mi): 3,643 Med. Household Income: $41,354
Bloomington, IN - A College Town with a Cultural Edge"; echo "
Hammond Population: 76,141 Livability Score: 70
Area Size: 59 KM2 Density (sq mi): 3,350 Med. Household Income: $46,974
Gary Population: 75,486 Livability Score: 72
Area Size: 129 KM2 Density (sq mi): 1,514 Med. Household Income: $31,315
Lafayette Population: 72,556 Livability Score: 75
Area Size: 76 KM2 Density (sq mi): 2,470 Med. Household Income: $46,925

Full list of the largest cities in Indiana

Rank Location Population Area KM2 Median Income Livability Score 
1 Indianapolis 869,387 936 $50,813 76
2 Fort Wayne 268,378 287 $51,454 84
3 Evansville 118,414 123 $42,623 66
4 South Bend 102,686 108 $42,657 68
5 Carmel 99,130 123 $115,109 83
6 Fishers 93,488 91 $108,361 82
7 Bloomington 84,691 60 $41,354 83
8 Hammond 76,141 59 $46,974 70
9 Gary 75,486 129 $31,315 72
10 Lafayette 72,556 76 $46,925 75
11 Muncie 67,739 71 $34,602 81
12 Noblesville 64,430 83 $85,314 84
13 Terre Haute 60,690 89 $37,299 74
14 Greenwood 58,784 72 $66,103 73
15 Kokomo 58,066 95 $48,830 68
16 Anderson 54,476 110 $37,110 59
17 Elkhart 52,657 69 $40,101 68
18 Mishawaka 49,675 46 $44,792 75
19 West Lafayette 49,668 35 $31,460 90
20 Lawrence 49,020 52 $62,257 70
21 Columbus 48,820 72 $67,387 76
22 Jeffersonville 47,932 88 $56,667 83
23 Westfield 41,652 77 $99,855 70
24 New Albany 36,730 39 $49,415 71
25 Portage 36,524 66 $59,731 71
26 Richmond 35,467 62 $40,871 83
27 Merrillville 34,871 86 $63,381 73
28 Goshen 34,586 43 $50,224 84
29 Plainfield 34,224 65 $65,306 75
30 Valparaiso 33,707 42 $56,027 79
31 Michigan City 31,191 51 $44,930 80
32 Granger 30,499 65 $102,367 78
33 Crown Point 30,372 46 $82,222 74
34 Schererville 28,559 38 $75,327 66
35 Hobart 28,120 68 $63,356 67
36 East Chicago 28,044 36 $35,396 65
37 Zionsville 28,035 139 $137,265 78
38 Marion 27,730 40 $35,252 64
39 Brownsburg 26,560 41 $89,089 75
40 Franklin 25,276 34 $60,500 64
41 Munster 22,604 20 $88,010 79
42 Greenfield 22,561 35 $57,950 74
43 Highland 22,479 18 $66,079 75
44 Clarksville 21,825 26 $46,931 76
45 La Porte 21,328 30 $42,057 74
46 Seymour 19,780 31 $44,524 67
47 Shelbyville 18,918 29 $49,586 61
48 St. John 18,382 32 $103,851 71
49 Avon 18,056 48 $93,352 73
50 Logansport 17,968 27 $38,053 77

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

  • Well Below nat. avg.
  • Below nat. avg.
  • Similar to nat. avg.
  • Above nat. avg.
  • Well above nat. avg.

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.