Looking for an apartment in Indianapolis is the easy part. Figuring out which neighborhood actually fits your lifestyle? That’s where things get tricky.
Do you want to be steps from breweries and nightlife in Broad Ripple?
A quick commute to downtown?
Live near major employers in Carmel?
Or maybe you’re simply looking for the best value for your budget. The good news is that Indianapolis has a neighborhood for just about everyone.
Instead of relying solely on rankings and review sites, we looked at what Diggz users are actually interested in. These are the Indianapolis neighborhoods renters searched for, saved, and wanted to live in the most – giving you a real-world look at where people are choosing to call home.
So whether you’re a student, young professional, family, or someone just looking for a fresh start, here’s our list of the 20 Indianapolis neighborhoods renters actually love.
1. Downtown Indianapolis
Who is Downtown Indianapolis for? Pretty much everyone. Young professionals launching their careers, students looking for nightlife with their study sessions, and outdoorsy types who prefer trails over treadmills will all feel right at home here.
Despite being the heart of the city, downtown has plenty of green space and some of the area’s best trails. Residents can bike, run, or stroll along the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, the Monon Trail, and the Canal Walk. When it’s time for food or shopping, Mass Ave delivers with its restaurants, bars, and entertainment options. And, of course, there’s always something happening, whether it’s hanging out at Monument Circle or cheering on the Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium. Young professionals will appreciate being close to major employers, including Simon Property Group, Salesforce, Eli Lilly, along with many other corporate offices.
Downtown is also a great option for students attending Indiana University Indianapolis, IUPUI, and Indiana Tech, all of which are nearby. Those looking for off-campus housing can find rooms on Diggz for as low as $700.
Why Downtown Indianapolis Made Our Top 10
- One of the best neighborhoods in Indianapolis for trails, nightlife, and entertainment.
- Convenient for students, young professionals, and anyone who wants to be close to the action.
- Home to major employers and some of the city’s top dining and cultural destinations.
2. Fountain Square
Fountain Square is one of Indianapolis’ most arts-driven and entertainment-heavy neighborhoods, known for its creative, slightly alternative vibe. It’s a major hub for the local arts scene, with venues like the Murphy Arts Center hosting theatre programs and events year-round. The neighborhood also features iMOCA, showcasing contemporary local and national artists, and the White Rabbit Cabaret, known for comedy, burlesque, and live performances.
Virginia Avenue is the main strip and gives the neighborhood its character. It’s lined with ethnic restaurants, antique shops, art galleries, and duckpin bowling, making it highly walkable and always active. The overall vibe is youthful and student-friendly, attracting renters who want nightlife, culture, and something different from typical downtown living.
The only real downside is connectivity – getting into downtown Indianapolis isn’t as seamless since you often have to cross the highway.
Why Fountain Square Made Our Top 10
- Strong arts, theatre, and live entertainment scene.
- Walkable streets filled with restaurants, bars, and unique local spots.
- Popular with students and young renters seeking a creative, energetic vibe.
3. Near Southside
Near Southside, particularly the Old Southside area, is one of the most historic neighborhoods in Indianapolis. Many families have lived here for generations, giving the area a strong sense of community that’s hard to find elsewhere. It’s the kind of neighborhood where neighbors know each other, community events are common, and Colts game weekends bring extra energy to the streets.
Food lovers have plenty of local favorites to choose from, including Iozzo’s Garden of Italy, Greek Islands, and the legendary Shapiro’s Deli. The neighborhood is also surprisingly dog-friendly, with large green spaces and nearby parks like Garfield Park and Kelly Park offering plenty of room for four-legged residents to roam.
Sports fans will love being close to Lucas Oil Stadium, Gainbridge Fieldhouse, and Victory Field. Residents also enjoy easy access to downtown attractions, the Indiana Convention Center, and annual events like the Indy 500 Festival. Community traditions remain strong, with gatherings hosted by organizations like IMPACT Old Southside and performances by the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra helping bring neighbors together. Yupp. Talk about community.
Why Near Southside Made Our Top 10
- One of Indianapolis’ most historic neighborhoods with a strong sense of community.
- Excellent location near downtown, major sports venues, and city events.
- Dog-friendly with great parks and beloved local restaurants.
4. Near Eastside
Near Eastside is one of those Indianapolis neighborhoods where location matters. A lot. Some pockets have seen major revitalization and offer historic homes, parks, coffee shops, and easy access to downtown, while other blocks can feel noticeably rougher. Picking the right street is key. Little Flower and Willard Park are both great areas.
What Near Eastside lacks in amenities, it makes up for in location. Residents are just minutes from downtown, Mass Ave, Fountain Square, and only about a 10-minute drive from the Wholesale District, the heart of Indianapolis’ entertainment scene. Here you’ll find Lucas Oil Stadium, Hilbert Circle Theatre, shopping, restaurants, and plenty of nightlife.
Closer to home, Brookside Park and Pogues Run Trail provide plenty of green space, and newer additions like Kan-Kan Cinema and nearby local restaurants have helped breathe new life into the area.
One common complaint among residents is the limited selection of grocery stores and everyday services. Still, renters looking for affordability and a central location may find Near Eastside worth considering – as long as they do their homework before signing a lease.
Why Near Eastside Made Our Top 10
- Convenient access to downtown and several of Indianapolis’ top neighborhoods.
- Mix of historic charm, revitalization projects, and affordable housing options.
- Large parks and trails add some much-needed green space.
5. Broad Ripple
When people think of Broad Ripple, three things usually come to mind: restaurants, nightlife, and a funky, energetic vibe. This is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Indianapolis for young renters who want plenty to do and don’t mind staying out a little later.
The heart of the action is along College Avenue, where you’ll find some of the city’s liveliest bars and social spots, including Kilroy’s, Average Joe’s, and Nightside Social. Things can get pretty busy in the afternoons and evenings, especially on weekends, so don’t expect peace.
Broad Ripple is also home to the iconic Vogue Theatre, one of Indianapolis’ coolest venues for concerts, comedy shows, and movies. For outdoor lovers, the Monon Trail cuts right through the neighborhood, making it one of the city’s most walkable and bike-friendly areas.
Compared to some other trendy neighborhoods, Broad Ripple remains relatively affordable. The average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is around $1,811, which works out to about $900 per person with a roommate.
Why Broad Ripple Made Our Top 10
- One of the best neighborhoods in Indianapolis for nightlife, restaurants, and entertainment.
- Young, lively atmosphere that’s especially popular with students and young professionals.
- Walkable and bike-friendly thanks to the Monon Trail, with relatively affordable rents for a trendy area.
6. Garfield Park
As the name suggests, Garfield Park revolves around one thing: the park itself. One of the best green spaces in Indianapolis, it gives the neighborhood an outdoorsy, laid-back feel that’s hard to beat. Residents enjoy easy access to the Garfield Park Conservatory, community events, trails, and plenty of space for biking, running, or simply relaxing.
The area does have some rougher pockets, particularly near the Shelby and Raymond intersection, though many residents say the neighborhood generally improves the closer you get to the park. Another major perk is location. Garfield Park connects to Pleasant Run Trail, which links up with the Cultural Trail, making it possible to bike all the way to downtown and enjoy its restaurants, bars, and attractions without ever getting in a car. The easy commute also means local favorites like Barringer’s Tavern and Skosh are just minutes away.
Why Garfield Park Made Our Top 10
- Home to one of the best parks and trail systems in Indianapolis.
- Easy bike ride and commute to downtown amenities.
- Active community with year-round events and the beautiful Garfield Park Conservatory.
7. West Indianapolis
West Indianapolis is a working-class neighborhood with deep industrial roots. While the historic stockyards shut down in the 1970s, the area remains a hub for manufacturing and logistics. Major employers like Eli Lilly and Company, Rolls-Royce, and chemical manufacturer Vertellus, along with numerous warehouses and trucking companies, continue to provide jobs nearby.
Affordability is one of West Indianapolis’ biggest strengths. With the average two-bedroom apartment renting for around $990, it’s one of the more budget-friendly neighborhoods in Indianapolis. This makes it especially attractive to blue-collar workers and renters who prioritize value over flashy amenities.
The neighborhood has a more industrial feel than other parts of the city, and safety can vary considerably from block to block. Prospective renters should take the time to explore different streets and seek out the more established, well-kept pockets.
Why West Indianapolis Made Our Top 10
- One of the most affordable neighborhoods in Indianapolis.
- Close to major employers in manufacturing, logistics, and industrial sectors.
- Convenient location with easy access to downtown and surrounding employment centers.
8. Carmel
Recently named the No. 1 place to live in America, Carmel has earned plenty of bragging rights, and our Diggz users agree. In fact, 61% of them ranked it among the best neighborhoods and suburbs around Indianapolis.
Carmel has a polished, well-maintained feel that’s hard to miss. Wide streets and the beautiful public spaces give the city a clean, organized vibe.
While rents tend to be higher than in some other Indianapolis suburbs, many renters feel the quality of life makes up for the added cost. The city is home to several major employers, including ACES, Aptiv, and CNO, while many residents also commute to downtown Indianapolis for work. Just keep in mind that rush-hour traffic can add significant time to your drive.
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the famous Monon Trail, which serves as a gathering place for cyclists, runners, dog walkers, and anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors. Carmel also offers beautifully maintained green spaces, including the Japanese Garden, Flowing Well Park, and numerous neighborhood parks scattered throughout the city.
Although the Indianapolis area is generally car-dependent, Carmel stands out for having several pockets that are surprisingly walkable and bike-friendly. Areas like Monon Boulevard, City Center, and the Arts & Design District are great for enjoying restaurants, shops, and entertainment without the hassle of a car.
The average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Carmel is around $2,099 per month.
Why Carmel Made Our Top 10
- Exceptional parks, trails, and recreational amenities.
- Home to several major employers and convenient access to downtown Indianapolis.
- More walkable and bike-friendly than many other Indianapolis suburbs.
9. Near Southeast
Near Southeast is a quiet, laid-back neighborhood that offers an affordable alternative to living in downtown Indianapolis. While the neighborhood itself is mostly residential, its biggest advantage is location. Residents are just minutes from downtown, Circle Centre, and some of the city’s best dining and nightlife.
A quick five-minute drive or an easy bike ride takes you to neighboring Fountain Square and Fletcher Place, where you’ll find local favorites like Inferno Room, La Margarita, Tappers Arcade Bar, and The Dugout Bar. Stanley Strader Park and Pride Park also provide nearby green space for walks, sports, and relaxing outdoors.
Near Southeast is ideal for renters who want a quieter place to live without giving up easy access to Indianapolis’ entertainment and food scene.
Why Near Southeast Made Our Top 10
- Quiet residential neighborhood just minutes from downtown Indianapolis.
- Quick access to Fountain Square and Fletcher Place’s restaurants, bars, and nightlife.
- Affordable living with an easy commute to downtown.
10. Near Westside
Near Westside is one of Indianapolis’ most up-and-coming neighborhoods. Rather than being a single community, it’s made up of several distinct areas, including Haughville, Hawthorne, Riverside, and West Indianapolis, each with its own character and history.
The neighborhood is undergoing a major transformation thanks to projects like the new Elanco Animal Health headquarters, the Henry Street Bridge, and the expansion of White River State Park. The new Henry Street Bridge will make it even easier for residents to drive or bike into downtown, adding to the area’s appeal.
Near Westside is also popular with students attending Indiana University Indianapolis thanks to its relatively affordable housing. With average two-bedroom apartments renting for around $1,500, it offers better value than many neighborhoods closer to downtown. Local hangouts like AVG Pub and the longtime favorite Fat Cat Bar add to the neighborhood’s growing social scene.
Why Near Westside Made Our Top 10
- Major redevelopment projects are transforming the neighborhood.
- Affordable option for IU Indianapolis students and young professionals.
- Excellent access to downtown via the new Henry Street Bridge and nearby White River State Park.
11. Near Northside
Near Northside combines several neighborhoods including Kennedy-King, Herron-Morton, Meridian-Highland, Fall Creek Place, Reagan Park, and Monon Yard into one of Indianapolis’ most convenient places to live. Mina Kadhum calls it “the suburbs of the city.” The area offers historic homes, walkable streets, and quick access to downtown.
The neighborhood is popular with Butler University and IU Indianapolis students, as well as young professionals. Residents also enjoy local favorites like Kountry Kitchen, Provider, and Tinker House. Two-bedroom apartments are renting for around $1,600, and if you opt for off-campus housing with Diggz, you can find options for as low as $700.
12. Meadows
The Meadows is one of Indianapolis’ most affordable neighborhoods, making it a practical choice for renters on a budget. Located just north of downtown and close to the Indiana State Fairgrounds, it offers a convenient commute to the city. While the neighborhood has seen ongoing revitalization, it’s still one where choosing the right street matters. Streets closer to Washington Park tend to be better maintained and safer.
Average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment is only $1,100 – an absolute steal!
13. Near Northwest / Riverside
Near Northwest and Riverside are ideal for renters who enjoy spending time outdoors. The neighborhood is anchored by Riverside Regional Park, one of Indianapolis’ largest parks, with trails, a golf course, sports facilities, and an amphitheater.
It’s also home to Marian University and sits next to the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields, making it a popular choice for students and nature lovers alike. If you’re a student, you can find Student housing and college roommates near Marian for as low as $700.
14. Christian Park
Christian Park is a quiet, family-friendly neighborhood that’s perfect for renters looking for a slower pace of life. The neighborhood is connected by the Pleasant Run Trail, which links residents to Garfield Park, Irvington, and the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, making it easy to bike around the city. It’s also just minutes from Fountain Square, so restaurants and nightlife are never far away. Local favorites include Kismetic Beer Company, Tlaolli for Mexican food, and Daisy Bar for breakfast.
15. Mapleton-Fall Creek
Mapleton-Fall Creek offers a nice balance of quiet residential streets and easy access to downtown Indianapolis. Its proximity to Marian University makes it popular with students, while the Fall Creek Greenway, Monon Trail, and IndyGo routes provide convenient ways to get around without a car. Food is another highlight, with neighborhood favorites like Bocca, Tinker Street, Shani’s Secret Chicken, and Delicia serving everything from casual bites to upscale dining. The Indiana State Fairgrounds is also nearby, hosting hundreds of events throughout the year.
16. Greenwood Indy
Greenwood offers a more affordable take on suburban living while still feeling polished and amenity-rich. Homes here tend to be larger, making the area especially appealing to families and renters who want more space.
It’s a great fit for those working on Indianapolis’ south side, though commuters to the north side may find the drive less enjoyable. Beyond work, Greenwood has plenty to offer, with Greenwood Park Mall, Craig Park, the Greenwood Amphitheater, Freedom Springs Aquatic Center, sports fields, playgrounds, and trails providing plenty of ways to stay entertained.
17. Marian-Cold Springs
Marian-Cold Springs is best known for being home to Marian University, making it a popular choice for students looking for affordable off-campus housing.
The neighborhood also borders Riverside Regional Park and the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields, giving residents easy access to trails, green space, and cultural attractions. It’s a quiet residential area with a short commute to downtown, great for both students and working professionals.
18. Martindale Brightwood
Martindale–Brightwood is one of Indianapolis’ most affordable neighborhoods and has been the focus of ongoing revitalization efforts. Located just northeast of downtown, it offers quick access to major employers, highways, and the Indiana State Fairgrounds. While some blocks have seen significant investment, others are still developing, so renters should explore the area carefully before choosing a home.
19. Southport
Southport offers a small-town feel without giving up the conveniences of Indianapolis. The neighborhood is popular with families thanks to its parks, local shops, and highly rated Southport schools, while nearby Greenwood Park Mall provides plenty of shopping and dining options. With easy access to I-65 and I-465, Southport is a practical choice for commuters looking for a quieter suburban lifestyle.
20. Beech Grove
Even the last neighborhood on our list has plenty of momentum. Around 59% of Diggz users showed interest in Beech Grove, proving this small community is something of a hidden gem.
Beech Grove offers a quieter, small-town feel while keeping downtown just a short drive away. The neighborhood is known for its walkable Main Street, locally owned restaurants, and close-knit community. It’s also home to the Amtrak Beech Grove Shops, one of the city’s largest employers, making it a convenient choice for commuters. Residents can unwind at Sarah T. Bolton Park or hop onto I-65 and I-465 for easy access to the rest of Indianapolis.
Your Next Address? Indianapolis.
So there you have it. Whether you’re looking for a lively nightlife scene in Broad Ripple, a family-friendly suburb like Carmel, or an affordable neighborhood close to downtown, Indianapolis has something for every renter. The best neighborhood ultimately comes down to your budget, commute, and lifestyle.
Once you’ve picked your favorite area, let Diggz make the search easier. Browse thousands of rooms for rent, find compatible roommates, and discover off-campus housing across Indianapolis – all in one place. Your next home (and roommate) could be just a few clicks away.