Thinking About Moving to Indiana? Here’s What You Need to Know
If you are thinking of moving to the Hoosier state, there is a lot to consider. Indiana has much more than cornfields and basketball games, although those things are pretty enjoyable. Here’s what you need to know if you’re thinking about becoming a Hoosier.
Growing cities with ample opportunities
Indiana is home to many thriving cities that offer plenty of opportunities for residents. Indianapolis was ranked by Forbes as one of “America’s Fastest-Growing Cities” in 2012 due to its steady population increase over the past decade – increasing by 19%. The Indy metro area added 100,000 people from 2000 to 2010 and had a 3.2% growth rate between 2010 and 2020. The city was also ranked as the #1 Best City for Relocating Families in 2012 due to its affordability and central location.
Besides Indianapolis, other metro areas in Indiana are experiencing growth. Fort Wayne grew by 1.2% between 2000 and 2009, with a 3.9% growth rate since 2000. Fort Wayne was ranked as the #5 Best City for Relocating Families in 2012 due to its low cost of living and solid public school system. Evansville also has positive stats – the population increased by 7.3% from 2000 to 2010 and had an average growth rate of 2.3% over the past decade.
The point is – if you want to move to a booming city filled with opportunity, Indiana is the place to be.
Great schools all around the state
Indiana’s education system is a big draw for families looking to relocate. The public school system is solid and diverse.
Indiana has a mix of urban, rural, and suburban schools with great opportunities for residents. Affordable housing, low cost of living rates, and solid public schools make Indiana a top state for relocation throughout the country.
Families are attracted to smaller communities in Indiana where they have an easier time finding affordable housing options that meet their needs, along with public schools that will help children grow socially and academically.
For example, Bloomington is a smaller city that consistently ranks among the top places in Indiana for its outstanding schools. The public school system boasts an average ACT score of 23, which is among the best in the nation. Not only are students provided with sound academics, but they also learn about social responsibility thanks to initiatives like “Community Service at Lunch.” This program allows students to make a difference in their communities through contributing time and effort towards different organizations – making them great candidates for leadership positions!
Indiana’s cities may be small compared to New York City or Chicago, but they still offer plenty of opportunities for young people looking to move somewhere where there is no shortage of things to do and places to explore.
If you want your children to have access to excellent education without making a huge financial commitment, Indiana is the place to be.
Tech jobs are on the rise in Indiana
Many people equate Indiana with cornfields and basketball, but the truth is, there are many tech jobs on the rise in Indiana. In fact, it was ranked as America’s 3rd “Best State for Tech Jobs” in 2013.
The state has a diverse range of cities where technology is booming; international companies such as Infosys Ltd., Convergys, and Hewlett-Packard have offices throughout, with many urban centers across the state.
Employees can find tech hubs all over the state; Indianapolis even boasts one of the highest concentrations of IT workers per capita compared to other metropolitan areas. The number of IT professionals employed within 15 miles of Indianapolis increased by 25% from 2010 to 2018, so if you’re thinking of moving to Indianapolis, you should know that there is plenty of opportunity for career growth.
Other cities with a significant tech presence include Fort Wayne and Evansville in the north, and Bloomington, Lafayette, and South Bend.
Business-friendly environment
Indiana is a great place to start your own business, too, with lower costs of doing business than the national average and an economy that is expected to grow by 4.8% in 2022 (for comparison, New York’s economy is projected to grow by 2%).
The Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) provides numerous incentives for start-ups to relocate, such as tax credits and grants along with a Business Retention/Attraction program. The IEDC also supports businesses that are already up and running; they provide free advice on expanding, starting new projects, adding new technology, or securing funding through loans and government aid.
So if you’re interested in moving somewhere where the business environment is friendly to start-ups or established companies alike, Indiana may be the place for you!
Hoosiers are friendly
Indiana residents really are as friendly as they say. In fact, a recent study found that Indiana was the 7th friendliest state in America.
All across the state, there are opportunities to make new friends and enjoy some fantastic company thanks to various sports leagues, community activities, and inviting restaurants. From Indy’s Pacers Bikeshare program to Fort Wayne’s Riverfront wine walks, there is no shortage of ways you can meet new people in this great state.
Since Indiana has such a large number of college students (almost 2 million and still growing!), chances are you’ll meet people from all over the world. The campuses might be small, but the famous Hoosier hospitality and friendliness are big.
Beautiful Scenery
Indiana’s scenery is as captivating as it is diverse. There are plenty of lakes, rivers, forests, and fields to enjoy, so you can work on your tan or get some great pictures while exploring the state. But if scenic views aren’t for you, there are still other opportunities to appreciate striking scenery, whether it’s at Conner Prairie, the Indianapolis Zoo, Bloomington Railroad Days, or any one of Indiana’s many parks. There really is something for everyone in this great state!
Final Thoughts on Moving to Indiana
Indiana is clean, safe, and full of opportunity, so if you’re looking for a place where you and your family can settle down without breaking the bank, consider moving to Indiana. It’s got plenty to offer!