A Student’s Guide to Indiana: 11 College Towns Reviewed

Indiana is home to more than a few great college towns. Each one has its own unique charm and character. Whether you’re an undergrad looking for an apartment in South Bend or a newly tenured professor hoping to find a house in Muncie, Indiana has something for everyone.

In this guide, we'll take a virtual tour of 11 of the top college towns in Indiana. This will provide a comprehensive look at the standout programs and local connections that make these towns so special.

1. Bloomington – Indiana University

Population: 79,168 | Student population: 45,328 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,232

Bloomington is home to Indiana University (IU). IU is primarily known for the Kelley School of Business and Jacobs School of Music. The Kelley School of Business offers top-ranked undergraduate and MBA programs, drawing students interested in finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship. The Jacobs School of Music is one of the best in the country, attracting talented musicians from around the world. 

The university has strong ties to the town, creating a buzzing community. Local businesses often partner with IU for internships and job placements, providing students with valuable work experience. The town's bustling downtown area is filled with student-friendly spots, from cafes to bookstores, making it easy for students to integrate into the community and stick around for the summer. 

Apartments near Indiana University | Houses for rent near Indiana University

2. West Lafayette – Purdue University

Population: 44,595 | Student population: 50,344 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $805

West Lafayette is where you'll find Purdue University. Purdue is renowned for its engineering and agriculture programs. The College of Engineering is highly respected, offering programs in aerospace, mechanical, and electrical engineering. The College of Agriculture is a leader in agricultural research, with programs that address global food security and sustainability. Purdue's emphasis on research and innovation attracts students who are passionate about making a difference in their fields.

Many local tech startups are founded by Purdue graduates, contributing to the town's economic growth. West Lafayette hosts university events, like career fairs and tech expos, which strengthen the bond between students and the local community. 

Apartments near Purdue University | Houses for rent near Purdue University

3. South Bend – Notre Dame

Population: 103,453 | Student population: 13,139 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $949

South Bend is famous for the University of Notre Dame. Notre Dame excels in law and business programs. The Law School is competitive and prepares students for successful careers in various legal fields. The Mendoza College of Business is highly rated, providing programs in finance, management, and entrepreneurship. These prestigious programs attract students who are committed to academics and professional success.

The university's impact on the town is significant. Notre Dame supports local schools and community projects, contributing to the town's development. The university's football games and concerts draw large crowds, benefiting local businesses. This strong connection between Notre Dame and South Bend fosters a palpable sense of community support.

Apartments near Notre Dame | Houses for rent near Notre Dame

4. Terre Haute – Indiana State University

Population: 58,389 | Student population: 9,459 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $775

Indiana State University is known for its education and nursing programs. The Bayh College of Education offers comprehensive teacher preparation programs, while the College of Health and Human Services provides top-notch nursing education. These programs equip students with the skills needed to succeed in their chosen careers, making ISU a top choice for aspiring educators and healthcare professionals.

The university and Terre Haute collaborate on many levels, creating a supportive environment. ISU students often volunteer in local schools and hospitals, gaining practical experience while helping the community.

Apartments near Indiana State University | Houses for rent near Indiana State University 

5. Muncie – Ball State University

Population: 65,194 | Student population: 20,319 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $710

Muncie is home to Ball State University. Ball State's architecture and telecommunications programs are highly respected. The College of Architecture and Planning offers innovative programs in urban planning, landscape architecture, and interior design. The College of Communication, Information, and Media provides cutting-edge programs in journalism, telecommunications, and public relations. 

Ball State has a close relationship with Muncie, fostering a strong sense of community. Students often engage in community projects for classes or on their own accord, gaining hands-on experience while making a positive impact.

Apartments near Ball State University | Houses for rent near Ball State University

6. Evansville – University of Evansville

Population: 117,298 | Student population: 2,078 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $782

The University of Evansville has stellar physical therapy and business programs. The Doctor of Physical Therapy program is highly regarded, preparing students for successful careers in healthcare. The Schroeder School of Business offers comprehensive programs in accounting, finance, and marketing. These programs provide students with a solid foundation and the skills needed to excel at the next level.

The connection between UE and Evansville is evident. Local businesses partner with the university for internships, giving students practical experience and job opportunities. Community members participate in campus events, like lectures and performances, creating a progressive and cohesive community. 

Apartments near University of Evansville | Houses for rent near University of Evansville

7. Fort Wayne – Purdue University Fort Wayne

Population: 263,886 | Student population: 8,298 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,219

Fort Wayne is home to Purdue University Fort Wayne. The university is known for its nursing and business programs. The College of Health and Human Services offers comprehensive nursing programs, while the Doermer School of Business provides programs in management, marketing, and finance. 

Fort Wayne benefits from its relationship with the university, creating a collaborative atmosphere. Local healthcare facilities often hire graduates, providing them with valuable career opportunities. Community projects frequently involve university students and staff, fostering a sense of teamwork and civic engagement.

Apartments near Purdue University Fort Wayne | Houses for rent near Purdue University Fort Wayne 

8. Richmond – Earlham College

Population: 35,720 | Student population: 736 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $640

Richmond hosts Earlham College. Earlham is known for its liberal arts and social sciences programs. The college offers highly rated programs in psychology, sociology, and political science, encouraging critical thinking and social responsibility. These programs attract students who are passionate about understanding and addressing societal issues.

Earlham and Richmond have a symbiotic relationship, creating a close-knit community. Students often get local internships and do volunteer work, gaining practical experience while contributing to the betterment of the town. 

Apartments near Earlham College | Houses for rent near Earlham College

9. Crawfordsville – Wabash College

Population: 16,306 | Student population: 840 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $600

Crawfordsville is home to Wabash College. Wabash is an all-male school that offers rigorous programs in history, English, and pre-medical studies, providing students with a well-rounded education. 

The college and Crawfordsville support each other, creating a strong community bond. Wabash students volunteer in local organizations and the town enjoys participating in college events. 

Apartments near Wabash College | Houses for rent near Wabash College

10. Greencastle – DePauw University

Population: 9,820 | Student population: 1,724 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $884

DePauw University is known for its music and communication programs. The School of Music offers comprehensive programs in performance, music education, and composition. The Media Fellows Program provides hands-on experience in journalism, broadcasting, and public relations. 

DePauw and Greencastle share a strong connection. Students frequently volunteer in the community, make connections with local professionals, and often stay in the area after their four years are up.

Apartments near DePauw University | Houses for rent near DePauw University 

11. Hanover – Hanover College

Population: 3,743 | Student population: 1,083 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $761

Hanover College is known for its political science and environmental science programs. The college offers comprehensive programs that prepare students for careers in public policy, law, and environmental management. 

Students take part in local environmental projects, gaining practical experience while contributing to sustainability efforts. Hanover locals participate in college events, like lectures and workshops, boosting the bond between locals and students.

Apartments near Hanover College | Houses for rent near Hanover College

 

Methodology

College towns are qualified as towns or cities with at least one college or university and fewer than 300,000 people according to U.S. Census data. Average rental data from Rent.com in May 2024.

This is not a comprehensive list of all of the towns and cities in the state meeting those requirements.

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