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Living in a walkable city can significantly impact your daily life and housing budget. While Indiana is not typically known for high-density urban centers, several cities offer a surprising level of pedestrian-friendly amenities. Based on an analysis of Walk Score data—a widely recognized measure of a location's walking convenience—this guide explores the ten most walkable cities in the Hoosier State. The core conclusion is that East Side Chicago, IN, leads with a Walk Score of 56, but overall, Indiana's top walkable cities present a range of affordable housing options, with median sale prices varying from under $90,000 to over $350,000.
A Walk Score is a metric from 0 to 100 that evaluates the walkability of any address based on the distance to nearby amenities like grocery stores, restaurants, parks, and schools. A score between 50-69 is considered "somewhat walkable," meaning some errands can be accomplished on foot. For home buyers and renters, a higher Walk Score can translate to reduced transportation costs, increased physical activity, and a stronger sense of community. When evaluating a city’s Walk Score, it’s crucial to also consider neighborhood-level data, as walkability can vary significantly within a single municipality.
The following cities rank highest in Indiana for walkability, according to the most recent data. Each provides a unique blend of accessibility and local character.
East Side Chicago, IN (Walk Score: 56) With a median sale price of $235,000, this suburb offers the most walkable environment in Indiana. Neighborhoods like Prarie Park and Calumet Heights are known for their pedestrian-friendly layouts, providing access to shops and attractions without requiring a car for every trip.
Hammond, IN (Walk Score: 52) Hammond boasts a Walk Score of 52 and is notable for its highly affordable housing, with a median sale price of $87,900. Areas such as Hessville and Woodmar make the city explorable on foot, offering residents convenience and value.
West Lafayette, IN (Walk Score: 51) Home to Purdue University, West Lafayette has a vibrant, walkable core. The Chauncey Village and Downtown areas are hubs of activity, with a median sale price of $357,000. Amenities like the Wabash Heritage Trail are easily accessible.
Logansport, IN (Walk Score: 51) Tied with West Lafayette, Logansport offers a small-town walkable experience. Its historic downtown area is a key asset, with a median sale price of $110,000 making it an accessible market for many buyers.
Highland, IN (Walk Score: 48) Highland features a Walk Score of 48 and a median sale price of $219,500. The Highland Downtown Historic District and parks like Wicker Memorial Park are central to its pedestrian appeal.
Vincennes, IN (Walk Score: 45) As the sixth most walkable city, Vincennes has a rich history and neighborhoods like Gregg Park that are easy to navigate on foot. The median sale price is $133,000.
Evansville, IN (Walk Score: 44) Evansville's walkable areas, such as the Haynie’s Corner Arts District, contribute to its score of 44. The housing market here has a median sale price of $150,000.
Mishawaka, IN (Walk Score: 44) Tied with Evansville, Mishawaka’s Downtown and Riverwalk areas are major pedestrian draws. The median sale price is higher at $200,000, reflecting the area's amenities.
Bloomington, IN (Walk Score: 43) Driven by Indiana University, Bloomington has a highly walkable downtown. With a median sale price of $310,000, it represents a premium option in Indiana's walkable city market.
Huntington, IN (Walk Score: 43) Rounding out the list, Huntington offers attractions like the Sunken Gardens. It is the most affordable on the list for renters, with a median rent of $603 and a median sale price of $151,000.
When considering a move to a walkable city, the Walk Score is an excellent starting point, but a deeper assessment is recommended. Based on our experience assessment, prospective buyers should:
Ultimately, the best choice balances your budget with your lifestyle needs, and Indiana’s walkable cities offer a spectrum of options to consider.
