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Trying the top The Largest Cities In Indiana cities on US State Largest Cities – Choose State & Number? Here are the top 10 to get you started.
1. Indianapolis, IN (Population: 879,293)
Indianapolis, the capital and largest city of Indiana, is known as the “Crossroads of America” for its central location and extensive highway network. It is world-famous for hosting the Indianapolis 500 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, one of the largest sporting events in the world. The city features a thriving downtown with the Indiana Statehouse, Soldiers and Sailors Monument, and a vibrant canal district. Indianapolis is also a hub for healthcare, technology, and education, with major institutions such as Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI). The city’s cultural scene is rich, with the Indianapolis Museum of Art, Eiteljorg Museum, and a lively music and theater community.
Interesting Fact:
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway can fit the Vatican City, Yankee Stadium, the White House, and the Rose Bowl inside its massive infield.
2. Fort Wayne, IN (Population: 269,994)
Fort Wayne, located in northeastern Indiana, is the state’s second-largest city and an important manufacturing and healthcare center. Founded in the late 18th century around a U.S. Army fort, the city has grown into a hub of innovation, culture, and family life. Attractions include the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo, the Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory, and a revitalized riverfront district. Fort Wayne has been nationally recognized for its affordable cost of living and strong sense of community.
Interesting Fact:
Fort Wayne is nicknamed the “City of Churches,” with more than 360 congregations representing diverse faiths.
3. Evansville, IN (Population: 115,332)
Evansville, situated along the Ohio River in southern Indiana, is the state’s third-largest city and a regional hub for commerce, culture, and education. It is home to the University of Evansville and the University of Southern Indiana, as well as historic districts and modern attractions. The city features the Mesker Park Zoo, Evansville Museum of Arts, and the Ford Center arena. With its location near Kentucky and Illinois, Evansville serves as a gateway to the Tri-State area.
Interesting Fact:
Evansville’s Tropicana Evansville was the first riverboat casino in the state when it opened in 1995.
4. Fishers, IN (Population: 104,094)
Fishers, located northeast of Indianapolis, has rapidly grown into one of Indiana’s most vibrant suburban cities. Known for its family-friendly neighborhoods, strong schools, and entrepreneurial spirit, Fishers blends modern development with community charm. The city is home to Conner Prairie, a living history museum that brings early Indiana life to life, as well as thriving business parks and entertainment venues.
Interesting Fact:
Fishers has repeatedly ranked among the best places to live in the U.S. thanks to its safety, schools, and quality of life.
5. South Bend, IN (Population: 103,395)
South Bend, located along the St. Joseph River in northern Indiana, is best known as the home of the University of Notre Dame. The city has reinvented itself from an industrial hub into a center of education, healthcare, and technology. Downtown South Bend offers a mix of historic charm and modern redevelopment, with theaters, museums, and riverfront trails.
Interesting Fact:
Notre Dame’s iconic Golden Dome is one of the most recognized landmarks in American college sports and culture.
6. Carmel, IN (Population: 102,296)
Carmel, a northern suburb of Indianapolis, is nationally known for its high quality of life, cultural amenities, and innovative urban design. The city features the Center for the Performing Arts, the Carmel Arts & Design District, and an extensive network of bike trails. It has earned praise for its roundabout traffic system, which improves safety and reduces congestion. Carmel consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in America.
Interesting Fact:
Carmel is nicknamed the “Roundabout Capital of the U.S.” with more than 150 roundabouts in use.
7. Bloomington, IN (Population: 78,840)
Bloomington, nestled in southern Indiana, is best known as the home of Indiana University. The city thrives on its college-town atmosphere, with lively arts, music, and food scenes. Surrounded by forests, lakes, and parks, Bloomington offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural sophistication. The limestone quarries around Bloomington have contributed to iconic buildings across the U.S.
Interesting Fact:
The 1979 Academy Award-winning film *Breaking Away* was set and filmed in Bloomington.
8. Hammond, IN (Population: 76,193)
Hammond, part of the Chicago metropolitan area, is located in northwest Indiana near Lake Michigan. Historically an industrial city, Hammond has been home to steel production, railroads, and manufacturing. Today, it is diversifying with education, healthcare, and regional commerce. The city also features Purdue University Northwest and Wolf Lake Memorial Park.
Interesting Fact:
Hammond is home to Horseshoe Hammond, one of the largest casinos in the Midwest.
9. Noblesville, IN (Population: 73,916)
Noblesville, the seat of Hamilton County, is one of the fastest-growing cities in Indiana. Its historic downtown is filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural venues, while the Ruoff Music Center hosts concerts by major national artists. Noblesville has successfully balanced its historic heritage with modern growth, making it a desirable place to live.
Interesting Fact:
Noblesville’s courthouse square is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
10. Lafayette, IN (Population: 71,216)
Lafayette, located along the Wabash River in western Indiana, is paired with its twin city, West Lafayette, home to Purdue University. This connection gives Lafayette a strong educational and research influence. The city has a lively downtown, cultural festivals, and a growing tech and manufacturing economy. Its mix of history, education, and innovation makes it a key regional center.
Interesting Fact:
The Tippecanoe Battlefield near Lafayette marks the site of the 1811 clash between U.S. forces and Native American confederation troops led by Tecumseh’s brother, Tenskwatawa.
