Northwest Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
103,704
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$64,459/yr
5.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
44,513
0.2% year-over-year change

Northwest Indianapolis population

How many people live in Northwest Indianapolis

Northwest Indianapolis is home to 103,704 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.4% of Northwest Indianapolis locals are male, and 52.6% are female.

Total population
103,704
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.4%
49,142
Female
52.6%
54,562
Value Percent YoY change
Male 49,142 47.4% 0.3%
Female 54,562 52.6% 0.9%
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 Northwest Indianapolis is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.6% are children under 15, then 14.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.9% of the population, while another 22.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
36
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.6%
15 to 24
14.5%
25 to 44
28.9%
45 to 64
22.7%
Over 65
13.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 21,357 20.6% 0.1%
15 to 24 15,053 14.5% 0.9%
25 to 44 29,973 28.9% 1.9%
45 to 64 23,499 22.7% -2.8%
Over 65 13,822 13.3% 4.5%
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 Northwest Indianapolis, 78.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 8.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 13.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 34.6% of locals are Caucasian, 42.3% are African American and 2.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 10.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
78.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
8.1%
Non-citizens
13.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 81,223 78.3% -1.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 8,414 8.1% 5.6%
Non-citizens 14,066 13.6% 13.5%
Racial breakdown
White
34.6%
Black or African American
42.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
2.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
10.9%
Other
8.8%
Value Percent
White 35,900 34.6%
Black or African American 43,825 42.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 636 0.6%
Asian 2,949 2.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 8 0%
Two or more races 11,266 10.9%
Other 9,120 8.8%

Households in Northwest Indianapolis

A peek inside Northwest Indianapolis households

Northwest Indianapolis has 41,638 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57.3% are families, while the remaining 42.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
41,638
0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
17,766
Family households
23,871
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 17,766 42.7% -2.3%
Family households 23,871 57.3% 2.2%
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 Northwest Indianapolis

The housing landscape of Northwest Indianapolis

Northwest Indianapolis's housing consists of 44,513 units, with 51.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 10.8% 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 1.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
44,513
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 22,807 51.2%
1 unit, attached 4,791 10.8%
2 units 611 1.4%
3 or 4 units 5,086 11.4%
5 to 9 units 4,375 9.8%
10 to 19 units 3,250 7.3%
20 to 49 units 1,167 2.6%
50 or more units 1,792 4%
Mobile home 590 1.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 44 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
252
108.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Northwest Indianapolis

In Northwest Indianapolis, the median construction year is 1985. About 5.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,482 5.6% -3.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,699 3.8% -3.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,159 7.1% -3.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4,626 10.4% -5.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 6,035 13.6% -1.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 8,439 19% -0.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 10,626 23.9% 1.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,923 11.1% 1.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,272 5.1% 23.4%
Built in 2020 or later 252 0.6% 108.3%
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.

Northwest Indianapolis occupancy rates

Out of the 41,638 occupied housing units in Northwest Indianapolis, 55% are owner-occupied, while 45% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
41,638
0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
18,752
Owner occupied
22,885
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 18,752 45% -0.7%
Owner occupied 22,885 55% 1.0%
Unoccupied housing units
6.5%
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.

Northwest Indianapolis housing costs

Housing costs in Northwest Indianapolis come to a median of $1,204 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,206.

Median housing costs per month
$1,204/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 Northwest Indianapolis
$1,206/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 Northwest Indianapolis

Northwest Indianapolis education at a glance

About 33.3% of the population in Northwest Indianapolis went to high school, while 21.9% pursued college studies. Another 7.5% earned an associate degree and 21% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 4,174 5.4% 15.8%
High school diploma 25,731 33.3% -0.8%
College diploma 16,916 21.9% 4.7%
Associate degree 5,768 7.5% -11.7%
Bachelor's degree 16,253 21% -1.7%
Graduate degree 8,435 10.9% 1.2%
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 Northwest Indianapolis

How much people earn in Northwest Indianapolis

The average annual household income in Northwest Indianapolis was $113,891 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $64,459, reflecting a +5.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Northwest Indianapolis
$113,891/year
2.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Northwest Indianapolis
$64,459/year
5.5% year-over-year change

Northwest Indianapolis income by age

In Northwest Indianapolis, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $61,250. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $81,734 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $58,629, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $53,146 in earnings. Overall, 85.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $58,629 21.2%
25 - 44 $61,250 1.9%
45 - 64 $81,734 10.7%
Over 65 $53,146 -7.3%
Above poverty level
86,104
Below poverty level
15,095
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 86,104 85.1% 0.2%
Below poverty level 15,095 14.9% 2.1%

Employment in Northwest Indianapolis

Workforce and job types in Northwest Indianapolis

72.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.8% run their own businesses, 71.9% are employed by private companies, and 10.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
37,990
Blue collar
14,468
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 37,990 72.4% -1.0%
Blue collar 14,468 27.6% 5.7%
Employer type
Self employees
5.8%
Private companies
71.9%
Governmental workers
10.6%
Not for profit companies
11.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 3,017 5.8% 3.7%
Private companies 37,736 71.9% 1.1%
Governmental workers 5,542 10.6% -1.9%
Not for profit companies 6,163 11.8% 0.0%

Transportation in Northwest Indianapolis

How people get around in Northwest Indianapolis

In Northwest Indianapolis, the average commute time is 12 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 97.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
12 min
-72.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 43,646 97.1% -1.2%
Taxicab 162 0.4% 17.4%
Bus or trolleybus 439 1% 3.5%
Ferryboat 29 0.1% 52.6%
Motorcycle 23 0% 155.6%
Bicycle 58 0.1% -10.8%
Walk 610 1.4% 16.6%
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 Northwest Indianapolis by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
46214 24,472 10,643 $59,178 $73,854
46222 38,887 13,551 $50,783 $62,926
46224 40,228 15,897 $55,986 $69,629
46228 15,724 6,083 $91,156 $115,762
46234 28,300 10,692 $83,190 $106,337
46254 40,674 16,813 $60,287 $83,550
46268 25,913 11,213 $68,631 $88,978
46278 8,450 3,204 $158,648 $184,821

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FAQs about Northwest Indianapolis demographics 

What is the total population of Northwest Indianapolis?

Northwest Indianapolis has a total population of 103,704 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 +0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Northwest Indianapolis?

The gender ratio in Northwest Indianapolis is as follows:
  • 47.4% males (49,142 residents)
  • 52.6% females (54,562 residents)

What is the median age in Northwest Indianapolis?

The median age in Northwest Indianapolis is 36.

What is the age distribution of the population in Northwest Indianapolis?

The age distribution in Northwest Indianapolis is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.6% (21,357 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.5% (15,053 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.9% (29,973 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.7% (23,499 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.3% (13,822 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Northwest Indianapolis?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Northwest Indianapolis is as follows:
  • White: 34.6% (35,900 residents)
  • Black or African American: 42.3% (43,825 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (636 residents)
  • Asian: 2.8% (2,949 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (8 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.9% (11,266 residents)
  • Other: 8.8% (9,120 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 78.3% of the population in Northwest Indianapolis.

How many housing units are there in Northwest Indianapolis?

There are 44,513 housing units in Northwest Indianapolis, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Northwest Indianapolis has a total of 41,638 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Northwest Indianapolis?

Northwest Indianapolis has a median household income of $64,459, representing a +5.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Northwest Indianapolis?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.4% (37,990 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.6% (14,468 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.8% (3,017 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.9% (37,736 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.6% (5,542 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.8% (6,163 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