Indianapolis is a great place to live, but if you want the excitement of the city without the hustle and bustle, moving to a nearby suburb might be the best option.
The suburbs surrounding Indianapolis offer a mix of peaceful neighborhoods, excellent schools, beautiful parks, and modern amenities, making them perfect for families, professionals, and retirees.
After reviewing various factors like safety, education, lifestyle options, and affordability, we have compiled a list of the 10 best suburbs near Indianapolis that offer the best of both worlds.
1. Zionsville – The Charming Suburb with Small-Town Appeal
Key Stats:
- Total crimes per 100k: 266
- Unemployment rate: 3.5%
- Median household income: $106,071
Zionsville is a charming suburb that gives you the warmth of a small-town community while being just a short drive from downtown Indianapolis. It boasts one of the lowest crime rates in the area, making it a safe and family-friendly place to live. The town is famous for its picturesque streets, boutique shops, and nature trails.
Residents can enjoy hiking at Starkey Nature Park, cooling off at Mulberry Fields Splash Park, or playing a round of golf at Zionsville Golf Course. The community also comes together for events like art walks and the annual Chili Cook-Off, making it a great place to build strong neighborhood connections.
2. Carmel – The Luxury Hub with a Thriving Arts Scene
Key Stats:
- High school graduation rate: 98%
- Total crimes per 100k: 900
- Median household income: $106,121
Carmel is one of the wealthiest and most developed suburbs near Indianapolis, offering a blend of modern townhouses, craftsman-style homes, and luxury estates. The city is famous for its Arts & Design District, where you’ll find galleries, antique stores, and stylish boutiques.
If you love the outdoors, Coxhall Gardens provides a beautiful escape with its bike trails, playgrounds, and scenic lake. Carmel also has some of the best-rated schools in the region, making it an ideal suburb for families.
3. Danville – A Quiet Escape with Natural Beauty
Key Stats:
- Average commute time: 25 minutes
- Total amenities: 575
For those looking for a quiet retreat with easy access to the city, Danville is a great choice. This suburb offers a mix of ranch, colonial, and craftsman-style homes with spacious yards.
Nature lovers will appreciate the scenic beauty of West Fork White Lick Creek, while golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round at Twin Bridges Golf Club. Danville’s public library and community parks make it a wonderful place for families and retirees looking for a peaceful, welcoming environment.
4. Brownsburg – The Best Suburb for Job Opportunities
Key Stats:
- Average commute time: 25 minutes
- Unemployment rate: 4.6%
Brownsburg stands out as a top choice due to its low unemployment rate and growing job market. The town offers a variety of housing options, including bungalows, farmhouses, and modern ranch homes.
Residents can enjoy Arbuckle Acres Park for outdoor activities and the Westchase Golf Club for a relaxing day on the greens. The Brownsburg Public Library is another great addition to the town, offering a quiet retreat for book lovers.
5. Avon – A Blend of Modern Living and Green Spaces
Key Stats:
- High school graduation rate: 94%
- Unemployment rate: 4.5%
- Total amenities: 1,132
Avon is a rapidly growing suburb that provides the perfect balance of modern housing, nature, and convenience. The town features a mix of townhouses, ranch-style homes, and Tudor-inspired houses.
One of Avon’s biggest highlights is Avon Town Hall Park, where you can enjoy fishing, disc golf, and picnics. The town’s farmer’s market is a great place to buy fresh produce and meet locals, making Avon a vibrant place to call home.
6. Fishers – A Lively Suburb with Great Entertainment
Key Stats:
- High school graduation rate: 97%
- Median household income: $90,437
Fishers is a dynamic and fast-growing suburb known for its thriving entertainment scene. Residents can shop at the local farmer’s market, watch concerts at the Nickel Plate District Amphitheater, or play golf at several premium courses.
Housing options range from colonial homes to charming craftsman houses. Fishers is also home to some of the best schools in the region, making it a top pick for families looking for a well-rounded community.
7. Westfield – A Suburb with a Strong Sense of Community
Key Stats:
- Unemployment rate: 4.2%
- Median home value: $210,600
Westfield is known for its low unemployment rate and affordable housing market. The town offers a variety of homes, including Tudor, craftsman, and colonial-style properties.
If you love spending time outdoors, Cool Creek Park is the perfect place for picnics and scenic walks. Golf lovers can practice their swing at the Wood Wind Golf Club, while avid readers can visit the Westfield Washington Public Library.
8. Noblesville – A Suburb with a Rich History
Key Stats:
- Median household income: $75,000
- Total crimes per 100k: 1,150
Noblesville is a historic town that offers beautiful riverfront views, charming downtown streets, and a variety of home styles. If you love live music, Ruoff Music Center hosts concerts featuring some of the biggest artists.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking on the White River or exploring the trails at Morse Park and Beach. With top-rated schools and a family-friendly atmosphere, Noblesville is a great place to settle down.
9. Greenwood – A Budget-Friendly Suburb with a Lot to Offer
Key Stats:
- Median home value: $180,000
- High school graduation rate: 92%
Greenwood is an excellent choice for those looking for affordable housing options without compromising on amenities. The town has a mix of modern homes, traditional ranch houses, and spacious townhouses.
Greenwood Park Mall offers a great shopping experience, while Freedom Springs Aquatic Park is a fun spot for families during the summer. The community also enjoys local events, farmer’s markets, and easy access to major highways, making it a convenient place to live.
10. Plainfield – The Perfect Balance of Work and Play
Key Stats:
- Unemployment rate: 3.9%
- Median household income: $72,500
Plainfield is a well-planned suburb with a strong economy and excellent recreational facilities. The town is famous for its extensive trail system, Splash Island Water Park, and great public parks.
Homebuyers will find a variety of housing options, from cozy ranch homes to modern subdivisions. Its proximity to the Indianapolis International Airport makes it an ideal location for frequent travelers.
Conclusion: Which Indianapolis Suburb is Right for You?
Each of these 10 suburbs near Indianapolis offers something unique, from family-friendly environments to luxury living and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking for safety, great schools, affordability, or entertainment, there’s a suburb on this list that fits your lifestyle.
If you want a luxurious and artistic vibe, Carmel is a top pick, while Fishers and Noblesville offer a lively and fun-filled atmosphere. If affordability and peace are your priority, Greenwood and Plainfield are excellent choices.
No matter what you’re looking for, these suburbs provide a perfect balance of city life and suburban charm, making them the best places to call home near Indianapolis.
