List of Cities in Indiana Alphabetically

by btobers · Published August 8, 2024 · Updated November 11, 2024

Indiana has around 569 incorporated cities and towns. The capital and largest city is Indianapolis, known for its sports, particularly the Indy 500 and the Colts. Other large cities include Fort Wayne, Evansville, South Bend, Carmel, Fishers, Bloomington, Hammond, Lafayette, and Gary. Indiana’s cities are spread out across the state, with Indianapolis acting as the primary hub for politics, business, and culture. Smaller towns and rural communities play significant roles in agriculture and manufacturing.

1. Indianapolis

City Facts

Population: 880,621 (2023 estimate)
Area Code: 317, 463
Zip Codes: 46201–46298
County: Marion County

Geography and History

Indianapolis, the capital and largest city of Indiana, is located in the central part of the state along the White River. Its geography consists of flat plains and gentle hills, with the downtown area situated at the intersection of major highways, earning it the nickname “Crossroads of America.” Indianapolis was founded in 1821 and became the state capital due to its central location. The city grew rapidly in the 19th century as a transportation and manufacturing hub. Today, Indianapolis is known for its diversified economy, which includes healthcare, education, finance, and sports. The city is also home to the Indianapolis 500, one of the most famous automobile races in the world, which has helped shape its identity as a sports capital.

Colleges and Universities

Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI): One of the largest universities in Indiana, IUPUI offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including notable schools for law, medicine, and business.
Butler University: A private university known for its strong programs in business, pharmacy, education, and the arts, particularly its renowned performing arts programs.
University of Indianapolis: A private university offering programs in nursing, business, education, and liberal arts. It is known for its community involvement and focus on healthcare professions.
Marian University: A Catholic liberal arts university, known for its nursing and education programs, as well as its growing reputation in biomedical science.
Ivy Tech Community College (Indianapolis Campus): The largest statewide community college system in Indiana, offering associate degrees and technical training in various fields, serving as a key institution for workforce development.

Major Landmarks

Indianapolis is famous for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home of the Indianapolis 500 and the Brickyard 400. Monument Circle in the heart of downtown features the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument, a tribute to Indiana veterans. The Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields is known for its vast collection of artwork and beautiful gardens. White River State Park is home to several attractions, including the Indianapolis Zoo, the NCAA Hall of Champions, and the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art. Lucas Oil Stadium hosts NFL games for the Indianapolis Colts, while Gainbridge Fieldhouse is home to the Indiana Pacers (NBA). Broad Ripple Village is a cultural district known for its vibrant arts scene and nightlife.

2. Fort Wayne

City Facts

Population: 265,752 (2023 estimate)
Area Code: 260
Zip Codes: 46801–46899
County: Allen County

Geography and History

Fort Wayne is located in northeastern Indiana at the confluence of the St. Joseph, St. Marys, and Maumee Rivers. The city is named after General “Mad” Anthony Wayne, who built a fort there in 1794 during the Northwest Indian War. It served as a major trading post and transportation hub in the 19th century, thanks to its strategic location on canals and railroads. Fort Wayne’s industrial base grew significantly in the 20th century, with manufacturing and defense playing key roles in the local economy. Today, Fort Wayne has a diversified economy, with strong sectors in healthcare, manufacturing, and education.

Colleges and Universities

Purdue University Fort Wayne (PFW): A regional campus of Purdue University offering a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly strong in engineering, business, and health sciences.
Indiana Tech: A private university with a focus on career-oriented education, offering degrees in business, engineering, computer science, and criminal justice.
University of Saint Francis: A private Catholic university known for its nursing, health sciences, and liberal arts programs, with a strong emphasis on service learning.
Ivy Tech Community College (Fort Wayne Campus): Offers associate degrees and certifications in technical and vocational fields, serving as a major educational institution for the region.
Trine University (Fort Wayne Campus): Focuses on providing degree programs in business, engineering, and criminal justice, with a flexible schedule for adult learners.

Major Landmarks

Fort Wayne boasts several significant landmarks, including the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo, one of the top-rated zoos in the country. Parkview Field, home to the Fort Wayne TinCaps baseball team, is a central feature of the downtown revitalization efforts. The Embassy Theatre is a historic venue that hosts concerts, Broadway shows, and other performances. The Allen County War Memorial Coliseum is a major sports and event venue, home to the Fort Wayne Komets hockey team and the Mad Ants basketball team. The Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory offers lush indoor and outdoor gardens. Promenade Park along the riverfront is part of the city’s ambitious riverfront development project, providing recreational and cultural activities.

3. Evansville

City Facts

Population: 117,298 (2023 estimate)
Area Code: 812, 930
Zip Codes: 47701–47750
County: Vanderburgh County

Geography and History

Evansville is located in southwestern Indiana, along the banks of the Ohio River. Its geography includes riverfront areas and gently rolling hills. Founded in 1812, Evansville grew as a riverport town and a hub for manufacturing and trade. The city’s strategic location on the Ohio River made it an important transportation center for goods traveling between the Midwest and the southern U.S. Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Evansville developed a strong industrial base, particularly in manufacturing and automotive production. Today, Evansville is a regional economic and cultural center, known for its healthcare, education, and energy industries.

Colleges and Universities

University of Evansville (UE): A private university offering undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as engineering, business, and the arts. UE is known for its strong emphasis on study abroad programs and its leadership in civic engagement.
University of Southern Indiana (USI): A public university offering a wide range of degree programs, particularly strong in business, healthcare, and education. USI has a growing reputation for its research in renewable energy and sustainability.
Ivy Tech Community College (Evansville Campus): A vital educational institution in Evansville, offering associate degrees and technical training in healthcare, business, and industrial technology.
Indiana University School of Medicine (Evansville Campus): Part of IU’s statewide medical education system, this campus provides medical training and research opportunities for students focused on rural and regional healthcare needs.
Harrison College (closed in 2018): While closed, Harrison College’s presence in Evansville contributed to the city’s focus on vocational education, especially in business and healthcare fields.

Major Landmarks

Evansville is home to several key landmarks, including Bosse Field, one of the oldest baseball stadiums in the country, still in use by the Evansville Otters. The Evansville Museum of Arts, History & Science features exhibits on regional history, art collections, and a planetarium. The Children’s Museum of Evansville offers interactive exhibits for families. Angel Mounds State Historic Site preserves one of the best-preserved Native American mound complexes in the U.S. The Ford Center hosts concerts, sporting events, and performances, serving as the home of the Evansville Thunderbolts hockey team. The city’s riverfront area is undergoing redevelopment, with parks, walking paths, and new cultural venues like Dress Plaza.

4. South Bend

City Facts

Population: 101,868 (2023 estimate)
Area Code: 574
Zip Codes: 46601–46699
County: St. Joseph County

Geography and History

South Bend is located in northern Indiana along the St. Joseph River, near the Michigan border. The city’s name comes from its location at the southernmost bend of the river. Founded in 1820, South Bend grew as an industrial city, with the Studebaker Corporation and other manufacturers fueling its growth in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Although much of the heavy manufacturing has declined, South Bend has reinvented itself as a center for education, healthcare, and technology. The presence of the University of Notre Dame, located just north of the city, has had a significant influence on South Bend’s culture and economy.

Colleges and Universities

University of Notre Dame: A private Catholic university located just outside South Bend, Notre Dame is one of the most prestigious universities in the U.S., known for its programs in law, business, engineering, and the liberal arts. The university’s campus and iconic Golden Dome are central to the city’s identity.
Indiana University South Bend (IUSB): A regional campus of Indiana University, IUSB offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly strong in nursing, business, and education.
Saint Mary’s College: A private Catholic women’s college located adjacent to Notre Dame, Saint Mary’s is known for its liberal arts education, nursing, and business programs.
Holy Cross College: A small Catholic liberal arts college that offers a close-knit academic environment and opportunities to co-enroll in courses at nearby Notre Dame and Saint Mary’s College.
Ivy Tech Community College (South Bend-Elkhart Campus): A public institution offering associate degrees and vocational training in fields such as healthcare, manufacturing, and IT.

Major Landmarks

South Bend is home to the iconic University of Notre Dame campus, which includes landmarks like the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, Touchdown Jesus, and the Golden Dome. The Studebaker National Museum celebrates the city’s industrial heritage and automobile history. Four Winds Field is home to the South Bend Cubs, a minor league baseball team. The Morris Performing Arts Center hosts concerts, Broadway shows, and other performances. The South Bend Museum of Art showcases regional and contemporary art, while the Century Center serves as a convention and event space. The city’s riverfront features the East Race Waterway, one of the first man-made whitewater rafting courses in the country.

5. Carmel

City Facts

Population: 103,628 (2023 estimate)
Area Code: 317, 463
Zip Codes: 46032–46082
County: Hamilton County

Geography and History

Carmel is located just north of Indianapolis in central Indiana. The city is known for its well-planned suburban communities and thriving business districts. Originally founded in 1837 as Bethlehem, the city was renamed Carmel in 1874 when a post office was established. Over the past few decades, Carmel has experienced rapid growth, transforming from a small town into one of the wealthiest and most desirable suburbs in the state. The city is known for its high quality of life, excellent schools, and roundabout intersections, which have helped reduce traffic congestion.

Colleges and Universities

Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI): Many Carmel residents commute to nearby Indianapolis for educational opportunities at IUPUI, which offers a wide range of degree programs.
Butler University (nearby Indianapolis): Located just south of Carmel, Butler offers strong programs in business, pharmacy, education, and performing arts, attracting students from across the state.
Ivy Tech Community College (Indianapolis Campus): Carmel residents have access to Ivy Tech’s Indianapolis campus, where they can pursue associate degrees and vocational training in various fields.
Ball State University (Fishers Campus): Ball State offers continuing education and graduate programs in nearby Fishers, particularly in business, education, and public administration.
Marian University (Indianapolis): A Catholic liberal arts university located nearby, Marian University attracts Carmel residents for its programs in healthcare, business, and the liberal arts.

Major Landmarks

Carmel is known for its Arts & Design District, featuring galleries, boutiques, and restaurants, making it a cultural hub for the region. The Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts is a world-class concert hall that hosts performances by internationally renowned musicians and local artists. Monon Trail, a popular biking and walking path, runs through Carmel and connects the city to Indianapolis. Coxhall Gardens offers scenic landscapes and a popular amphitheater for outdoor events. Clay Terrace is a premier shopping center with a variety of retail stores and dining options. Carmel’s City Center is a vibrant mixed-use development that includes theaters, restaurants, and luxury residences.

List of Cities in Indiana Alphabetically

1. Indianapolis

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

2. Fort Wayne

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

3. Evansville

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

4. South Bend

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

5. Carmel

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

List of All Cities and Towns in Indiana in Alphabetical Order

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