What to know when moving to Charlestown, IN
Charlestown at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community with 14.7% renters and a median household income of $93,418.
- The Major Draw:
- Median gross rent is $906, making it more affordable than many surrounding areas.
- The Reality Check:
- Only 0% of residents use public transit, indicating a car-dependent lifestyle.
- Top Tip:
- Prepare for 116 rainy days each year; investing in rain gear is advisable.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
In Charlestown, 28.2% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, indicating a moderately educated community. The median household income stands at $93,418, while the poverty rate is 7.5%. With 14.7% of the population renting, housing options cater more toward ownership. The area experiences about 116 rainy days a year, which is notable for newcomers to consider when planning outdoor activities.
Probably not your spot if: You prefer public transportation, as the transit usage is non-existent.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $906, while the median home value is $261,700.
- 28.2% of residents have a bachelor's degree, contributing to a community with a solid educational background.
- The poverty rate is 7.5%, reflecting a relatively stable economic environment.
- With only 14.7% renters, homeownership predominates in the area.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Indiana's crime rates show a downward trend in both violent and property crimes, making it relatively safe compared to national averages.
- Violent crime rate: 269.3 per 100k, compared to the national rate of 325.3 per 100k, with a decrease of 27.2% from 2022 to 2025.
- Property crime rate: 1,121.6 per 100k, which is 27.5% lower than the national average of 1,546.9 per 100k, with a significant drop of 34.7% since 2022.
- Notable trend: The homicide rate has decreased by 48.1% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Indiana).
Schools & Higher Ed
Access to higher education is available nearby, with a total of 8 postsecondary institutions in the surrounding area.
- With College Scorecard data: 7 institutions.
- Nearby options include Indiana University-Southeast in New Albany and Ivy Tech Community College in Sellersburg.
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Charlestown experiences an annual precipitation of 59.1 inches, with 116 rainy days. Winter sees minimal snowfall, averaging 1.5 inches annually with just 4 snow days.
- Charlestown State Park: 4.7 stars from 1,865 reviews.
- Sam Peden Community Park: 4.5 stars from 1,239 reviews.
- Kevin Hammersmith Memorial Park: 4.8 stars from 475 reviews.
- Nine Penny Branch State Nature Preserve: 4.7 stars from 250 reviews.
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
Clark County, where Charlestown is located, has a stable job market with low unemployment.
- Unemployment rate: 2.4% as of December 2025.
- Employed individuals: 66,623.
- Labor force: 68,232.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.