What to know when moving to Anderson, IN
Anderson at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 17% of residents rent and the median income is $77,618.
- The Major Draw:
- Median home value is $168,300, making it more affordable compared to many surrounding areas.
- The Reality Check:
- Only 0.6% of residents use public transit, indicating a car-dependent environment.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $1,011 in monthly rent.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Anderson has a population of approximately 17,115, with a median household income of $77,618. About 26.4% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher, indicating a moderately educated community. With a renters percentage of 17%, this area may suit those looking for affordable housing options. The community experiences around 133 rainy days each year, so be prepared for some wet weather.
Probably not your spot if you rely on public transit, as only 0.6% of residents commute via this method.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $1,011, while the median owner-occupied home value is $168,300.
- Approximately 8.9% of residents live below the poverty line, reflecting some economic challenges in the community.
- The unemployment rate in Madison County is 2.9%, indicating a stable job market.
- With 17% of the population renting, there are affordable options for those looking to rent.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, FBI Crime Data Explorer, BLS Local Area Unemployment Statistics.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Crime data for Indiana indicates that property crime has an annual rate of 1,121.6 per 100,000 residents, which is 27.5% lower than the national average. Violent crime stands at 269.3 per 100,000, also lower than the national average by 17.2%. Notably, the homicide rate has decreased by 48.1% since 2022.
- Violent crime: 269.3 per 100k vs. national 325.3
- Property crime: 1,121.6 per 100k vs. national 1,546.9
- Notable trend: Homicide rate down 48.1% since 2022
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Indiana).
Schools & Higher Ed
Anderson has access to four postsecondary institutions, including:
- Anderson University
- Ivy Tech Community College-Anderson
- Purdue University - Purdue Polytechnic Anderson
- Summit Salon Academy
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES, College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Madison County experiences about 39.4 inches of rainfall per year, with 133 rainy days. The area has very little snowfall, averaging just 2.1 inches annually across 6 snow days.
- Mounds State Park - 4.7 stars (2,578 reviews)
- Falls Park - 4.7 stars (1,877 reviews)
- Daleville Town Hall Park and Splash Pad - 4.8 stars (572 reviews)
- Cyntheanne Park - 4.7 stars (363 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Madison County, the labor force consists of approximately 64,583 individuals, with an employment count of 62,742. The unemployment rate stands at 2.9%, suggesting a relatively stable economic environment.
- Unemployment rate: 2.9% as of December 2025
- Employed: 62,742
- Labor force: 64,583
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.
