Indianapolis, IN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
885,860
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$66,219/yr
5.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
401,428
0.5% year-over-year change

Indianapolis population

How many people live in Indianapolis

Indianapolis is home to 885,860 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.6% of Indianapolis locals are male, and 51.4% are female.

Total population
885,860
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.6%
430,402
Female
51.4%
455,458
Value Percent YoY change
Male 430,402 48.6% 0.4%
Female 455,458 51.4% 0.5%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Indianapolis is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.8% are children under 15, then 13.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.2% of the population, while another 22.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.8%
15 to 24
13.6%
25 to 44
30.2%
45 to 64
22.4%
Over 65
13.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 183,868 20.8% -0.1%
15 to 24 120,843 13.6% 0.4%
25 to 44 267,254 30.2% 0.9%
45 to 64 198,108 22.4% -0.7%
Over 65 115,787 13.1% 2.1%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Indianapolis, 86.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 8.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 51.3% of locals are Caucasian, 27.9% are African American and 4.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 9.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
86.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.2%
Non-citizens
8.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 763,666 86.2% -0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 46,270 5.2% 4.8%
Non-citizens 75,924 8.6% 11.9%
Racial breakdown
White
51.3%
Black or African American
27.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
4.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9.7%
Other
6.4%
Value Percent
White 454,273 51.3%
Black or African American 246,922 27.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 5,068 0.6%
Asian 37,386 4.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 163 0%
Two or more races 85,604 9.7%
Other 56,444 6.4%

Households in Indianapolis

A peek inside Indianapolis households

Indianapolis has 362,961 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 55.9% are families, while the remaining 44.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
362,961
0.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
160,024
Family households
202,937
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 160,024 44.1% -1.0%
Family households 202,937 55.9% 2.5%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Indianapolis

The housing landscape of Indianapolis

Indianapolis's housing consists of 401,428 units, with 59% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 7.9% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 1.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
401,428
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 237,016 59%
1 unit, attached 31,713 7.9%
2 units 8,496 2.1%
3 or 4 units 27,037 6.7%
5 to 9 units 32,067 8%
10 to 19 units 23,760 5.9%
20 to 49 units 13,090 3.3%
50 or more units 23,324 5.8%
Mobile home 4,617 1.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 308 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
4,554
83.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Indianapolis

In Indianapolis, the median construction year is 1973. About 15.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 63,149 15.7% -2.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 23,311 5.8% -3.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 47,331 11.8% -2.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 53,874 13.4% 0.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 50,137 12.5% 3.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 43,455 10.8% -3.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 47,548 11.8% -1.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 41,013 10.2% 4.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 27,056 6.7% 4.7%
Built in 2020 or later 4,554 1.1% 83.0%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Indianapolis occupancy rates

Out of the 362,961 occupied housing units in Indianapolis, 56% are owner-occupied, while 44% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
362,961
0.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
159,622
Owner occupied
203,339
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 159,622 44% -0.6%
Owner occupied 203,339 56% 2.2%
Unoccupied housing units
9.6%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Indianapolis housing costs

Housing costs in Indianapolis come to a median of $1,169 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,156.

Median housing costs per month
$1,169/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Indianapolis
$1,156/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Indianapolis

Indianapolis education at a glance

About 35.7% of the population in Indianapolis went to high school, while 20.2% pursued college studies. Another 6.8% earned an associate degree and 21.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 30,805 4.6% 3.8%
High school diploma 237,954 35.7% -1.0%
College diploma 134,603 20.2% 0.5%
Associate degree 45,282 6.8% -3.8%
Bachelor's degree 141,836 21.3% 2.9%
Graduate degree 75,293 11.3% 3.0%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Indianapolis

How much people earn in Indianapolis

The average annual household income in Indianapolis was $90,667 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $66,219, reflecting a +5.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Indianapolis
$90,667/year
4.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Indianapolis
$66,219/year
5.1% year-over-year change

Indianapolis income by age

In Indianapolis, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $71,146. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $75,538 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $43,577, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $50,646 in earnings. Overall, 84.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $43,577 6.9%
25 - 44 $71,146 5.2%
45 - 64 $75,538 6.4%
Over 65 $50,646 2.3%
Above poverty level
722,505
Below poverty level
134,907
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 722,505 84.3% 0.4%
Below poverty level 134,907 15.7% 1.2%

Average renter income in Indianapolis

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Indianapolis, their median household income was $40,420 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 34.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$40,420
Rent-to-income ratio
34.3%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Indianapolis

Workforce and job types in Indianapolis

The job market in Indianapolis is powered by 448,822 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.4% run their own businesses, 69.6% are employed by private companies, and 11.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
448,822
1.6% year-over-year change
White collar
339,306
Blue collar
109,516
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 339,306 75.6% 1.7%
Blue collar 109,516 24.4% 1.2%
Employer type
Self employees
7.4%
Private companies
69.6%
Governmental workers
11.3%
Not for profit companies
11.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 32,978 7.4% 3.5%
Private companies 312,439 69.6% 0.2%
Governmental workers 50,739 11.3% 4.7%
Not for profit companies 52,666 11.7% 6.4%
Unemployment rate
5.1%
-0.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Indianapolis stands at 5.1%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Indianapolis

How people get around in Indianapolis

In Indianapolis, the average commute time is 25 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 81.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
25 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 358,902 81.4% -0.6%
Taxicab 1,160 0.3% 72.4%
Bus or trolleybus 5,811 1.3% -3.0%
Subway or elevated 84 0% N/A
Ferryboat 119 0% -0.8%
Motorcycle 275 0.1% -10.4%
Bicycle 1,543 0.4% -5.6%
Walk 7,838 1.8% 2.9%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Indianapolis by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
46183 34 34 $0 $0
46201 30,335 13,525 $49,195 $68,096
46202 20,180 10,786 $63,506 $101,750
46203 37,758 15,996 $57,393 $79,714
46204 11,400 6,499 $86,396 $112,258
46205 28,259 12,487 $72,417 $111,001
46208 22,379 9,420 $60,062 $96,096
46214 24,472 10,643 $59,178 $73,854
46216 2,767 1,498 $53,161 $66,253
46107 13,020 5,530 $56,799 $72,870

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FAQs about Indianapolis demographics 

What is the total population of Indianapolis?

Indianapolis has a total population of 885,860 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Indianapolis?

The gender ratio in Indianapolis is as follows:
  • 48.6% males (430,402 residents)
  • 51.4% females (455,458 residents)

What is the median age in Indianapolis?

The median age in Indianapolis is 34.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Indianapolis?

The age distribution in Indianapolis is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.8% (183,868 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.6% (120,843 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.2% (267,254 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.4% (198,108 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.1% (115,787 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Indianapolis?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Indianapolis is as follows:
  • White: 51.3% (454,273 residents)
  • Black or African American: 27.9% (246,922 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (5,068 residents)
  • Asian: 4.2% (37,386 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (163 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.7% (85,604 residents)
  • Other: 6.4% (56,444 residents)

What percentage of the population in Indianapolis are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 86.2% of the population in Indianapolis.

How many housing units are there in Indianapolis?

There are 401,428 housing units in Indianapolis, reflecting a +0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Indianapolis and what is the average household size?

Indianapolis has a total of 362,961 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Indianapolis?

Indianapolis has a median household income of $66,219, representing a +5.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Indianapolis?

The employment rate is 94.9% in Indianapolis, with a workforce of 448,822 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75.6% (339,306 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24.4% (109,516 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.4% (32,978 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.6% (312,439 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.3% (50,739 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.7% (52,666 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025