Located in southwest Indiana’s Vanderburgh County, Evansville sits across the Ohio River from Kentucky. The city is known for its affordability, historic districts and beloved annual events. “Buyers are moving to Evansville because the cost of living is cheaper,” says Kara Hinshaw, a broker at Key Associates Signature Realty. “It’s hassle-free living, and people love that.” Established in 1812, Evansville was settled for its fertile farmland and prime location as a transportation route along the river. Today, Evansville is home to nearly 121,000 residents, the third-largest city in Indiana. Those coming in and out of the city may cross not only state lines, but also time zones: Evansville and surrounding Indiana counties are part of the Central Time Zone, but most of Indiana uses Eastern Time. Major employers, such as Deaconess Midtown Hospital and Berry Global, the largest plastics processor in North America, form the region's employment backbone. Whether folks are drawn to the city for work, the housing market or the family-friendly activities, Evansville’s city slogan – “E is for everyone” – welcomes all.
Consider Evansville if you like classic older home styles or want to be near the Ohio River.
Deaconess Midtown Hospital is a vital healthcare resource for the community.
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Colonial Revivals and historic Queen Annes
The city has eight districts recognized by the National Register of Historic Places, such as the Culver neighborhood, which include 19th century Queen Anne and Colonial Revival styles. Alternative designs include bungalows, ranch-styles and new traditional homes in gridded residential areas or downtown. “The housing market is doing well in Evansville,” says Kendra Bisesi, a Realtor with Angel Team Realty. “It’s a great time to sell, and buyers generally see a wide range of pricing within each area of town.” Most homes cost around $200,000, which is half the cost of the median property in the U.S. Prices range from as low as $20,000 for a two-bedroom bungalow fixer-upper to upwards of $800,000 for a five-bedroom Colonial Revival near downtown. New construction is moving into the eastern corner of the city, centered around the commercial hubs of the east side.
Historic Evansville homes often feature detached garages and small lawns with paved entryways.
In Evansville you'll see price points range from the low $100,000s to upwards of $300,000 for Colonial Revival homes.
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City parks and waterfront views of the Ohio River
Evansville operates 46 parks, covering more than 1,600 acres. Wesselman Woods is the largest, spanning 200 acres and considered the biggest urban old-growth forest in the country. Visitors can view wildlife or visit the nature center's educational exhibits. Sunset Park is another option, with waterfront views of the Ohio River and access to a skatepark, playground and the Pigeon Creek Greenway Passage. It was developed in 2021 as part of the riverside renewal efforts. Bally’s Evansville, Indiana’s first casino, is less than a mile from downtown, offering slot machines, arcade games and overnight accommodation along the riverfront. Baseball fans can catch a game at Bosse Field, the third-oldest active ballpark in the country and home to the independent Evansville Otters. The Ford Center hosts basketball games, hockey games and concerts. Mesker Park Zoo is on the west side, with 700 animals for viewing. The city experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and cold winters averaging 15 inches of snowfall. On the east side, Swonder Ice Arena maintains winter sports year-round, with public skating and sessions for hockey or figure skating. Evansville maintains three city-owned golf courses.
Bosse Field in Diamond-Stringtown is the third oldest baseball field still in use today.
Mesker Park Zoo is the perfect place to bring your family for a day of animal fun.
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Annual events and the West Side Nut Club Fall Festival
The West Side Nut Club Fall Festival is the largest annual event, attracting more than 200,000 during the first whole week of October. It’s hosted by the West Side Nut Club – a group of elected officers established in 1921 to oversee the growth of the western Evansville community. Visitors can enjoy live music, food and a parade finale along Franklin Street. “It’s one of the biggest street festivals in the country and raises a generous amount yearly for local charities,” says Bisesi. Haynie's Corner Arts District hosts over 20 events per year, including the Midwest Dragon Boat Racing Festival in June. August's Volksfest is a long-standing celebration of German culture along Fulton Avenue.
West Side Nut Club Festival brings out live music acts for all to enjoy.
Play your favorite carnival games at the West Side Nut Club Festival.
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Eastside commercial hubs and local shops downtown
Most residents shop on the east side, where commercial hubs such as Eastland Mall and Lloyd Crossing are located. Retailers range from grocers like Wal-Mart and Ruler Foods to big-box stores like Target, Sam’s Club and Costco. Local boutiques, like Sixth and Zero or Honey Moon Coffee offer a curated selection of artisan soaps, apparel and novelties. For a meal out on the town, locals can choose between fast food chains and a wide selection of family-owned eateries in downtown Evansville. The Hilltop Inn serves an Ohio River Valley specialty: traditional fried pork brain sandwiches. It has been a community staple since 1839.
Diamond-Stringtown residents can shop at Target for their daily needs.
Angie's home made works of art are sold at her shop in Lamasco along Franklin Street.
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Education at Evansville Vanderburgh Schools
Evansville families are zoned for Evansville Vanderburgh Schools, which earns an overall B rating from the educational review site Niche. The district serves over 21,000 students in 22 elementary, eight middle and seven high school options. Private options like Reitz Memorial High School and Mater Dei High School are also available. Another alternative is Signature School, ranked by Niche as the Best Charter High School in Indiana. Post-graduation, students can pursue higher education degrees at the University of Evansville, a private school on the east side, or the University of Southern Indiana, a larger public institution to the west of the city.
Central High School is an above average, public school located in EVANSVILLE, IN.
Benjamin Bosse High School scored an overall B- on niche.com.
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Traversing Evansville and access to U.S. I-69
U.S. Route 41 and the Lloyd Expressway intersect at the heart of the city, connecting to neighboring areas and Interstate 69. “Evansville is conveniently located within a few hours of several major cities like Indianapolis, Louisville, Nashville and St. Louis, so traveling is a breeze,” adds Bisesi. The Metropolitan Evansville Transit System provides public rides, bus routes and a trolley along Main Street. Evansville Regional Airport is to the north, offering daily flights to major U.S. hubs like Atlanta and several direct flights. For healthcare, the Deaconess Midtown Hospital is on the east side. It has been ranked as the second-best hospital for Critical Care in Indiana by U.S. News & World Report for the past seven years.
Crime and environmental concerns
According to FBI data, Evansville experiences higher property and violent crime rates than the United States in general. In 2023, the Evansville Police Department reported significantly more violent incidents than the national average. The Environmental Protection Agency monitors the soil of residential properties in Vanderburgh County for lead and arsenic. The EPA replaces soil in contaminated yards for free, and the county Health Department tests kids for contamination upon request – a service they recommend for those who live in homes built before 1978. The six coal power plants within 30 miles of the city occasionally affect air quality. The area also has a risk of tornadoes; the last major deadly one was in 2005. Many homes have basements, which offer protection from high winds.
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Evansville, IN sell after 38 days on the market compared to the national average of 52 days. The median sale price for homes in Evansville, IN over the last 12 months is $159,000, up 10% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Experience refined living in this free-standing 3,412sf condominium, tucked away in one of Evansville’s most desirable northside communities, near Evansville Country Club. Four bedrooms and 2.5 baths provide generous accommodations, while the open-concept floorplan seamlessly connects living, dining, and entertaining spaces. Designed with comfort and sophistication, this residence features
Welcome to your next home in the highly sought-after Roselawn neighborhood! The neighborhood has sidewalks for walks and bike rides. This spacious 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath gem offers the perfect balance of comfort and flexibility with one of the largest backyards in the neighborhood, ideal for entertaining, play, pets, or simply enjoying your own private outdoor oasis.Inside, you'll be greeted by two
Welcome to this well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home, built in 2007, offering 1,689 square feet of comfortable living space in a desirable location near shopping and schools. Situated in a neighborhood with sidewalks perfect for walking, this home combines convenience with a true sense of community. Inside, you’ll find a split-bedroom floor plan and an open layout with vaulted ceilings,
Welcome home to this special opportunity on Evansville's Northside! Second living quarters available for additional income. Main home completely remodeled with new flooring, new roof, new kitchen, new baths, renovated bedrooms with large closets, large living area, new electrical, new appliances, new water heater, large laundry room/mud room, and a one car attached garage. There are 3 bedrooms
Welcome to 2809 East Oak Street! Located in the heart of Evansville’s desirable east side, near UE and the serene Evansville State Hospital grounds , this charming two-story home is full of curb appeal and character. A huge front porch sets the tone for relaxation and neighborhood charm. Inside, the home features 4 spacious bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and a semi-finished full basement—including an
This well-maintained home is located on Evansville’s desirable Eastside, close to schools, shopping, and everyday conveniences. With great curb appeal and thoughtful updates throughout, it’s ready for its next owner! Inside, you’ll find two spacious bedrooms on the main level plus a large third bedroom in the finished basement. The basement has been upgraded with a new vanity and toilet,
Welcome to Manning Apartment Community in Evansville, Indiana, where comfort and convenience come together in perfect harmony. Nestled in a tranquil, park-like environment, Manning offers a range of spacious and stylish apartment homes designed to fit your lifestyle. Each apartment home features modern amenities, fully-equipped kitchens, and private outdoor spaces, providing the ideal setting for
This large home offers a flexible floor plan with 3–4 bedrooms and plenty of living space. The main level features a generous great room with dining area, a family room with fireplace, and a formal dining room. The formal living room could easily serve as a home office or study. The kitchen is nicely appointed with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and a cozy breakfast nook with
Lakeside Living, Your Way.Discover the ease of single-story living at Leisure Living Lakeside. Our bright, spacious one and two-bedroom apartments offer a peaceful retreat in a beautiful setting. Enjoy morning walks along wooded trails, relax by our stocked lake, or unwind on your private patio. Experience a lifestyle tailored to your comfort and enjoyment.
Towering elm trees adorn Bayard Park, the namesake green space at the center of this eastern Evansville suburb. “Bellemeade Bayard Park is known for its sense of community, tree-lined streets, and proximity to essential amenities such as parks, schools, and shopping centers," says Joseph Myers, Broker at Keller Williams Indy Metro West. “The neighborhood is appreciated for its welcoming atmosphere and active community involvement, making it an excellent place for residents seeking a connected and vibrant community.” Prospective buyers are attracted by the affordable housing options and quick 2-mile trips into downtown Evansville. Local landmarks like The Boys & Girls Club of Evansville and Rochelle Landers Neighborhood Pool play a role in maintaining a community-oriented and family-friendly environment. And with easy access to Lincoln Avenue on its northern border, commutes into downtown are accessible by car or the Metropolitan Evansville Transit System within a 6-minute drive.
The housing market in Bellemeade Bayard Park attracts buyers with entry-level pricing and proximity to downtown Evansville. “There’s a diverse range of historic homes and modern updates,” says Myers, who specializes in resimercial real estate in Indiana. “Compared to other areas in Evansville, it offers a unique blend of affordability and charm, appealing to a wide variety of buyers looking for a community-oriented neighborhood.” With a median sales price of $100,000, homes in Bellemeade Bayard Park are $40,000 less expensive than the average property in the Evansville Metro Area. Most homes were constructed in the 1920s, resulting in designs common to the era. Homes styles range from Cape Cods and bungalows to Prairie styles and Queen Annes. Prices range from the low $100,000s for a two-bedroom Cape Cod to upwards of $300,000 for a three-bedroom Queen Anne. Homes often feature detached garages, small lawns, and paved entryways. Streets surround Bayard Park in a traditional six-block grid pattern.
Some residents are within walking distance of Bayard Park, the neighborhood's primary gathering place. This expansive green space is dotted with trees, surrounded by paved walking paths and a playground with swings at its center. The East Branch Library is located here, which has served the community since 1912. The Boys & Girls Club of Evansville is located at the top left corner of the community and is dedicated to improving the lives of Evansville youth through health, education and citizenship. Rochelle Landers Neighborhood Pool is open for swimming in June, featuring slides and fountains to cool from the summer heat. Akin Park is south of the neighborhood, with a basketball court and mulched jungle gym for children to enjoy. Waterfront views of the Ohio River are 2 miles away at Sunset Park, which offers access to a skatepark, Mickey’s Kingdom and the Pigeon Creek Greenway Passage. Sunset Park was developed in 2021 due to riverside renewal efforts conducted by the City of Evansville.
Groceries and everyday essentials are available at Simpson's Supermarket along Covert Avenue. Star Market and Dollar Depot are located nearby for quick grabs within the community. Major shopping centers, like Lawndale Shopping Center are 4 miles from the neighborhood. When dining in the area, the Indiana-founded Donut Bank offers pastries and caffeinated beverage options that have served the community since 1987. The locally-owned Caribbean Cuisine serves hearty portions and a fusion of fried meats, fruits and plantains. Walton’s is known for its southern comfort, smoked meats and live music performances every weekend.
Families in Bellemeade Bayard Park are zoned for Evansville Vanderburgh Schools. Students may attend schools like Lodge Community, Washington Middle and Benjamin Bosse High School, which have received C-plus, C-plus and B-minus ratings from the educational review site, Niche. Lodge Community School serves students from kindergarten through Grade 8 and offers the High Ability program, which identifies high-achieving students and adjusts their curriculum with appropriate opportunities for further accomplishment in the classroom. Washington Middle School provides the GAIN program, which focuses on development for high school and real-world scenarios. Benjamin Bosse High School offers a rigorous curriculum with three AP courses for the opportunity to earn college credit. Private options like Reitz Memorial High School and St. Benedict Cathedral School are also available. Those interested in pursuing higher education degrees look to the University of Evansville nearby.
Bellemeade Bayard Park residents rely on Lincoln Avenue and Route 41 for easy access to downtown Evansville and neighboring areas like Rosedale South and Akin Park. Those seeking public transportation grab a seat on the Metropolitan Evansville Transit System (METS) bus. When traveling further outside the neighborhood, the Evansville Regional Airport is 7 miles away. For healthcare, the Select Specialty Hospital is 2 miles from the community.
Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
