7 Most Affordable Towns to Retire in Indiana

Indiana, known as the Hoosier State, attracts retirees from all over the United States due to its low cost of living and its welcoming element of southern hospitality. The state's appeal is further enhanced by its engaging community, featuring endless events and gatherings that make any retiree feel right at home. From the nature-centric Bluffton that allows for a healthy, active lifestyle to Fisher's suburban setting that appeals to seniors aiming for a more classy lifestyle at a fraction of the cost, read along to plan your ideal retirement experience.

Peru

Known as the Circus Capital of the World, Peru has hosted the Amateur Circus since the 1960s and is home to the Circus City Festival Museum. Peru offers a blend of retirement lifestyles any retiree could ask for. From spacious open-concept homes that embody the essence of countryside living to a lively downtown atmosphere that allows any newcomer to feel like a local through engaging with small businesses and attending community events. The local, laid-back experience is enriched by entertainment destinations such as Rock Hollow Golf Club, Ole Olsen Memorial Theatre, and Miami County Museum, commemorating the bygone era in town.

With a population of 10,828, over 15.6% of the town's population is over 65, encouraging businesses to cater to the demographic with top-notch retirement homes and healthcare options. Some of the top-rated assisted living homes include Hickory Creek and Blair Ridge Health Campus for a more upscale experience, while the average home price in town is valued at $145,000 in 2024.

Logansport

Logansport is the perfect retirement destination for retirees seeking an affordable waterfront community. Nestled in the valleys of the Eel and Wabash Rivers, it offers scenic beauty and a peaceful living environment that balances outdoor recreational potential with an engaging local scene. Logansport is also home to a sizeable community of seniors, making almost every online list of the best places to retire in Indiana. Seniors relocating to Logansport can indulge in an active lifestyle, enjoying walks along the River Bluff Trail and Riverside Park and popular hiking trails like the France Park Waterfall trail. As one of the larger towns in Indiana to retire, Logansport enjoys a population of 18,194 with slightly more expensive properties.

Average homes valued at $182,400 in 2024, according to the Realtor local housing report, with top-rated healthcare facilities Compensating for the higher living costs. Woodbridge Health Campus, Fast Pace Health Urgent Care, and Logansport Memorial Express Medical Center, along with the town’s primary hospital, the Logansport Memorial Hospital, are a few of the top-rated senior care facilities in town.

Tipton

Tipton is the ideal retirement destination for seniors seeking a laid-back countryside lifestyle, highlighted by the welcoming nature of locals and community-centric events. Tipton is also a perfect new hometown for seniors seeking proximity to major metropolitan cities due to its convenient location, just 51.4 mi from Indianapolis. It balances the best of rural living with proximity to big city amenities like hospitals, shopping centers, and more. Tipton also ranks as one of the best places to retire for its exceptionally low crime rates, which are estimated to be 66% lower than the national average. Newcomers to town can own their home for an average of $186,200, while the average cost of living in town is 23% below the national average.

Richmond

More of a small city than a town, Richmond balances all elements that make Indiana one of the best states to retire. This city offers a blend of the Amish community's simplicity, a rich history captured in stunning Victorian architecture, and deep roots in the jazz music scene, marking it as one of the pivotal places that nurtured this creative art form. Adding to the town’s appeal are the local efforts to beautify the town with murals decorating every street, community events like the Winter Ice Festival, and endless small businesses to browse and support in your free time. Iconic small businesses to look forward to visiting include Little Sheba’s BBQ restaurant, Roscoe’s Coffee Bar and Tap Room, and Antique Alley.

Despite being a desirable town to retire and enjoying a sizeable population of 35,513 residents, Richmond is still highly affordable, with average home prices valued at $135,000 in 2024. From endless entertainment options at community centers like the Ruoff Music Center to unique displays and insights into the developing history of the state with museums like the Wayne County Historical Museum, the Model T Ford Museum, and the outdoors Gennett Records Walk of Fame.

Fishers

Though slightly more upscale, Fishers is more of a bedroom community than a small town, offering easy access to urban amenities. This small community sits 20.7 mi from Indianapolis and has been ranked one of the best towns to live by multiple online resources for its low crime rates and endless parks. However, along with its upscale advantages and convenient geographical location, Fishers is also one of the more expensive places to retire in Indiana because of its desirability among families and young professionals. Average home prices in Fishers were valued at $450,000, while the cost of living for a single resident who chooses to rent a home is estimated to be $1,988, according to 2024 cost of living reports.

Bluffton

Bluffton stands out as an ideal retirement destination for those who cherish good air quality, verdant surroundings, and abundant opportunities for daily physical activity. This charming small town offers a serene environment where retirees can enjoy a healthy and active lifestyle amidst beautiful landscapes and well-maintained recreational areas. Some of the town’s most notable natural attractions include Ouabache State Park, the Bluffton River Greenway, and Wabash River Park. Popular senior homes and retirement communities in Bluffton include The Cottages at Bridgewater, Christian Care Retirement Community, and more.

Bluffton is also home to a thriving small business scene, allowing newcomers to integrate seamlessly into the community through engaging conversations with local business owners and participation in local events. This vibrant social atmosphere fosters a sense of belonging and community among residents. Many of the town’s main events take place in Parlor City Plaza, with some of the most notable being the Music on The Plaza Summer Concert Series and Parlor City Market. The average home price in Bluffton was estimated at $164,051, while living costs are similar to other small towns in Indiana, valued at $31,155 per year.

Huntington

Finally, Huntington is one of the best small towns for seniors seeking a lively small town that fosters creativity and enjoys an abundance of small business shopping options. Thanks to its student population attending Huntington University, the town offers a diverse shopping and dining scene, along with a vital community element. Some of the town’s main events include the Huntington Trails Beer & Wine Festival, which brings out the best of local businesses, and the JeFFFest art festival in June.

Some of the locally renowned businesses to check out in town include a range of dining options like Brick House Grill, Moose & Mollie’s Cafe and Gelato, and Two EE’s Winery. With a sizeable population of 17,023, Huntington has a range of top-notch retirement amenities that add to its appeal along with relatively affordable home prices. Top-rated assisted living options include Hickory Creek, Miller's Merry Manor, and Tipton Place, while the cost of owning a home in 2024 is valued at $165,900, similar to other small towns in the Hoosier State.

Why Retire in Indiana?

Indiana is a prime retirement destination known for its remarkably low cost of living and warm southern hospitality. The state offers retirees a compelling blend of affordability and quality of life. Whether engaging in local events, enjoying the great outdoors, or relaxing in quiet, friendly neighborhoods, Indiana ensures seniors can maximize their budgets while enjoying a fulfilling retirement.