A small college town at the southeast edge of Greater Indianapolis
Primarily surrounded by farmland on three sides, Franklin is where the Indianapolis metropolitan area begins or ends, depending on which direction one is headed on Interstate 65. Franklin is about 25 miles southeast of downtown Indy but has long established an identity of its own as the seat of Johnson County. "It has a small-town feel, and it's only 30 minutes away from the big city of Indianapolis," says Realtor Shelly Linton of Smyth and Co. Real Estate, whose office is in downtown Franklin. “It’s an easy commute because we’re close to Interstate 65.” The city is home to Franklin College, a private liberal arts college that opened in 1834 and became Indiana’s first coed institution in 1842. Though the college has just around 1,000 students enrolled, its presence gives Franklin a unique vibe compared to other area communities.
This lovely artistic structure welcomes you to the Franklin community.
Franklin College, located in Franklin, IN, is a private liberal arts college with a rich history
Franklin College is a historic liberal arts school focused on academic excellence.
The 1823 Bakehouse Cafe in Franklin is a gluten-free bakery and restaurant.
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From historic homes near downtown to subdivisions of large 21st-century houses
Franklin's streets are laid out in a strict grid pattern, thanks to the flat topography in Central Indiana. The further one ventures from the center of town, the more winding and less densely populated the streets become. Along Jefferson Street is a vibrant main drag of bungalows and Victorian-era houses. Midwestern row houses are often occupied by local businesses on the street level with apartments in the units above. Single-family homes close to downtown are mid-century or traditional architectural style, while subdivisions with larger, contemporary custom homes are further out. This makes for a standard price range, with some selling for around $150,000 and higher-end homes selling for up to $700,000. The median home price in Franklin is $275,000, however, some have sold for over $1 million, while some fixer-uppers can be found for less than $135,000.
Franklin's streets are laid out in a strict grid pattern.
Find historic homes throughout Franklin, IN.
This lovely ranch style home is nestled in a Franklin neighborhood street.
Explore stunning new builds in Franklin, IN.
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Franklin Community School Corporation serves most students
Most students living in Franklin attend schools in the Franklin Community School Corporation, which earns an A-minus rating from Niche and is the No. 2-ranked school district in Johnson County. Some students living in unincorporated areas southeast of town attend C-rated Edinburgh Community School Corporation. Franklin College is affiliated with American Baptist Churches USA and offers 49 majors. The school is located on a 207-acre, wooded campus. The school has about 1,000 students, and more than three-quarters of them live in on-campus or Greek housing.
Access to I-65 a boon for businesses
Access to Interstate 65 provides Franklin with economic opportunity. Companies such as Amazon, Energizer Batteries, Mistubishi and Target have large distribution centers adjacent to Franklin’s interstate exit. Franklin is also the headquarters of the American Baptist Churches of Indiana and Kentucky, also known as the Indiana Baptist Convention. Public transportation is available on weekdays on the Access Johnson County Franklin East and Franklin West bus routes. Franklin is just under 35 miles from Indianapolis International Airport, typically a 40-minute drive.
Historic Artcraft Theatre at heart of downtown retail area
U.S. Highway 31, known as Morton Street in town, was Franklin’s original conduit to Indianapolis and is still the primary commercial strip. Big box stores, grocery stores and chain and local restaurants are located along Morton Street. Smaller local shops and restaurants populate Franklin’s downtown district, including The Historic Artcraft Theatre. Built for silent movies and vaudeville shows in the 1920s, its 1948 Art Deco marquee evokes that of the famed Chicago Theatre. In addition to screening vintage movies, Artcraft hosts the Torchfire Film Festival, which celebrates international cinema while also having a category specifically for Hoosier filmmakers. "They sell the best popcorn," Linton says of the theatre. "And it's all run by volunteers."
Downtown Franklin has an abundance of shops and attractions.
In downtown Franklin there is no lack of shopping or things to do.
The Historic Artcraft Theatre in Franklin has been restored from 1922.
A view of Franklin's county courthouse.
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Events and public art are city signatures
Public art is one of Franklin’s signatures, with colorful murals dotted throughout the city. Artcraft Alley is a display of 200 multi-colored stars suspended overhead from spring through fall, while the paper lanterns of Kuji Alley evoke Franklin’s sister city of Kuji, Japan. Johnson County dubs itself “Festival Country,” and Franklin is a key part of that scene. Events like the Hops & Vines beer and wine festival and the Franklin Halloween Town are held in Downtown Franklin. "Every time you go downtown for an event, you run into familiar faces of business owners and neighbors," Linton says. The annual Johnson County Fair is held at the county fairgrounds in Franklin every July, with the demolition derby serving as a fan-favorite event. Franklin College sponsors sports at the NCAA Division III level. The Grizzlies, formerly known as the Fighting Baptists, have faced rival Hanover College in football annually since 1898 in the Victory Bell Game, which is played in Franklin every other year.
As you enter Franklin you'll get a welcoming feeling.
Located in a restored building, The Willard is the perfect spot in Franklin.
Artcraft Alley is a display of 200 multi-colored stars suspended overhead.
Garment Factory is a versatile event space in Franklin, perfect for any occasion.
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Parks and trails take advantage of creekside land
Franklin has 13 parks and one wetland area covering 140 acres across the city. Several parks and the 17-mile-long Franklin Greenway Trail are near Youngs Creek and Hurricane Creek, which run south and east of downtown. Youngs Creek Park, opened in 2022 and anchored by the DriveHubler.com Amphitheater, has quickly become Franklin’s signature park thanks to its downtown location – the Franklin Fall Festival and July 4th Firecracker Festival are held at the park. Blue Heron Park offers an accessible playground, a disc golf course and a cricket ground. Province Park, near the confluence of Hurricane and Youngs creeks, has a skate park and dog park. The Franklin Family Aquatic Center is the city’s outdoor pool, operating from late May until early September. The Cultural Arts & Recreation Center is a 30,000-square-foot indoor space with a fitness center, basketball courts, dance studios, weight room and other amenities.
The Cultural Arts and Recreation Center in Franklin is a hub for fitness, events and more.
Province Park features a playground in the neighborhood of Franklin.
The Franklin Greenway Trail spans approximately 7 miles.
Explore Youngs Creek Parks outdoor space, trails, open green areas and scenic creekside.
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City has taken measures since historic 2008 flooding
In 2023, Franklin's violent crime rate was around one-quarter the national average, and the property crime rate was a little over half the national average. The face of Franklin was altered by a 100-year flood that temporarily left downtown impassable in 2008. In fact, Youngs Creek Park is built on a former residential area that was wiped out by that flood, and the park space is expected to help mitigate a future major flooding event. Tornados are common in Johnson County, which has experienced nearly two dozen twisters since 1950. However, no tornado has touched down in Franklin proper since 1954.
Residents can get flower arrangements to go at JP Parker Flowers.
Take a long nature walk at the Blue Heron Park.
This farmhouse style home is an example of "new builds" in Franklin.
Depot Park is located right along an active railroad track that runs right through Franklin.
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Written By
Alex Hickey
Photography Contributed By
Anna Cheng
Video By
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Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Franklin, IN sell after 41 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Franklin, IN over the last 12 months is $315,000, up 11% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Beautifully updated, in FRANKLIN 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offering space, style, and an excellent location. A three-sided carport double doors with a latch adds convenience and protection for your vehicle. Conveniently situated near downtown Franklin, Columbus, Edinburgh Outlet Mall, and Greenwood, with northbound and southbound access to State Road 31 nearby, making travel easy and efficient.
Like-new, move-in ready two-story home in Franklin. Build in 2023, featuring 5 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms with a flexible floor plan. The main level includes an open-concept living area along with a convenient main floor bedroom and full bath, perfect for guests, a home office, or multi-generational living. Upstairs offers a spacious loft providing additional living or entertainment space,
A rare opportunity to enjoy modern living within walking distance of downtown Franklin's shops, dining, and community events. Sitting on a half acre on a dead end street, this beautifully designed 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath home offers the perfect blend of space, style, and convenience. The open-concept layout features a large kitchen with quartz countertops and a spacious island that flows seamlessly
Beautiful patio home in Wonderful Franklin! Good flowing floor plan has a separate dining room, kitchen with all appliances and pantry and a large living room. Primary bedroom is large & has Walk-in closet and Full bath. Bedroom #2 is also a good size and has a walk-in closet as well. Back patio has fencing for privacy. 2 Car garage is finished and has newer insulated garage door. Roof is 2 yrs
Beautifully updated, in FRANKLIN 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offering space, style, and an excellent location. A three-sided carport double doors with a latch adds convenience and protection for your vehicle. Conveniently situated near downtown Franklin, Columbus, Edinburgh Outlet Mall, and Greenwood, with northbound and southbound access to State Road 31 nearby, making travel easy and efficient.
Need a little elbow room in Johnson County? Check out this 3,000 square foot home in Franklin's Branigin Preserve. There is no shortage of space in this 5-bedroom home that has a den and a loft. Built in 2021 by Arbor Homes, this one-owner house has many builder upgrades, including, an open floor plan, large center island, granite counters, 9-foot ceilings and luxury vinyl plank flooring on the
JUST LIKE NEW and it includes many upgrades beyond the builders options to bring this masterpiece to you....Presenting an attractive property with 2296 square feet of living area built in 2023, offers modern living spaces; this is a property of exceptional design and craftsmanship. The heart of this home resides in its open floor plan, where a spacious kitchen awaits, featuring a kitchen bar and
Step into a rare piece of Hoosier history with this full-brick historic schoolhouse built in 1930, now turned into a warm and inviting single-family home. Parts have been restored but much of its original rustic charm remains, creating a truly special place that tells a story in every room. Inside, you'll love the exposed brick walls, tall windows, and unique character that make this home stand
Introducing the Ironwood by Arbor Homes where openness meets functionality in a thoughtfully designed floorplan.Step into a welcoming foyer with a convenient powder room near the front of the home. The garage includes built-in storage and direct access to the mudroom, perfect for stowing away sports gear or bikes during winter.The spacious great room is ideal for relaxing or entertaining guests,
Introducing The Juniper one of Arbor Homes newest two-story floorplans, offering beautiful exterior designs and flexible options to make it uniquely yours. Choose from multiple upgrades, add a basement for extra space, or expand your great room with a 2 rear and side extension. You can even add a third-car garage for more storage.Step inside to a welcoming hallway and convenient powder bath
One of our newest floor plans and has quickly become one of our most popular. The open kitchen facing the large Great Room separated by a long bar-top is perfect for everything from late night entertaining to homework sessions, just one example of the flexibility of this floor plan. The den can also become a first floor 5th bedroom. The upstairs includes a loft, laundry room and a total of 4
The Bradford is the perfect ranch-style floorplan for those looking to downsize or enjoy single-level living with plenty of space. Starting at 1,611 square feet, this three-bedroom, two-bath home can be personalized to fit your lifestyle with an optional second-floor bonus room for even more living space.Step inside from the charming front porch and youre greeted by a versatile flex room. Use it
One of our newest floor plans and has quickly become one of our most popular. The open kitchen facing the large Great Room separated by a long bar-top is perfect for everything from late night entertaining to homework sessions, just one example of the flexibility of this floor plan. The den can also become a first floor 5th bedroom. The upstairs includes a loft, laundry room and a total of 4
This two-story home is ideal for families and features a convenient first-floor bedroom, ideal for overnight guests, along with a private study and an open layout shared between the kitchen, dining area and Great Room. The second level includes a versatile loft surrounded by four spacious bedrooms—three of which feature walk-in closets. The upper-level owner’s suite is complemented by an attached
Introducing The Juniper one of Arbor Homes newest two-story floorplans, offering beautiful exterior designs and flexible options to make it uniquely yours. Choose from multiple upgrades, add a basement for extra space, or expand your great room with a 2 rear and side extension. You can even add a third-car garage for more storage.Step inside to a welcoming hallway and convenient powder bath
Come home to Founders Pointe Apartments and let our modern, new residential community enhance your suburban lifestyle in Franklin, Indiana. Offering an array of beautifully designed one, two, and three bedroom floor plans, our homes deliver the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and elegance. With high-end amenities like a clubhouse, a business center, and a prime location in Johnson County,
An inviting single family residence awaits its discerning lessee, presenting a home that is ready for immediate occupancy and a truly pleasant living experience. The living room offers a distinctive ambiance with its appealing beamed ceiling, creating a sophisticated atmosphere for moments of repose or engaging conversations. Culinary endeavors find their perfect setting in the kitchen,
The Row Apartments in Franklin, Indiana offers spacious two- and three-bedroom townhome-style residences designed for private, low-maintenance living. Each home features a modern all-electric kitchen with a large breakfast island, in-unit washer and dryer, large closets, and a combination of plank and carpet flooring. With personal driveways and private front and back yards, residents enjoy the
Available NOW! Welcome Home, Introducing The Links at Franklin Luxury Apartment Homes! Now Leasing & Available! This Brand-new One-Story apartment living with 3-beds, 2-baths + Patio all with attached 2-vehicle garage. Interiors are beautiful and feature wood-style plank flooring, white shaker cabinetry, granite counters and stainless-steel appliances (refrigerator, electric range, over-the-range
The Links at Franklin is NOW LEASING and ready to welcome you home! Perfectly situated on the eastern edge of Franklin, IN, The Links is just minutes from I-65 and streamlines your travel to Indianapolis, IN, Columbus, IN and surrounding cities. The buzz of downtown Franklin is just a short three miles away…you’re sure to enjoy festivals, concerts, boutiques and cafes that reflect Franklin’s
Welcome home to Lakeview Apartments in Franklin, Indiana! Discover all the delectable dining, fantastic shopping, and great entertainment options nearby. With easy access to Interstate 65, you are just 30 minutes from downtown Indianapolis, which makes commuting a breeze. If convenience and location are important factors in your search for a new apartment home, you've come to the right place.
This home is professionally managed by Tricon, dedicated to creating exceptional rental experiences. Featuring 3 bedrooms, 2.0 bathrooms, and approximately 1,298 square feet, this well-maintained home offers a high standard of rental living, supported by a team that puts residents first. As a Tricon resident, you'll enjoy access to Tricon Vantage — a program designed to support your rental
Special security deposit offer: Pay just 75% of your base rent as your security deposit (taxes and fees not included), valid for new applicants who sign a 12-month lease by March 31, 2026. Offer is contingent on application approval and execution of a lease agreement. Other terms and conditions may apply. This property is professionally managed by AMH Living, a leading single-family rental
Special security deposit offer: Pay just 75% of your base rent as your security deposit (taxes and fees not included), valid for new applicants who sign a 12-month lease by March 31, 2026. Offer is contingent on application approval and execution of a lease agreement. Other terms and conditions may apply. This property is professionally managed by AMH Living, a leading single-family rental
Property Id: 1486214TENANT OCCUPIED UNTIL THE END OF MARCH.Gorgeous Italianate home with a classic wrap-around porch in the heart of Franklin. This 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath property blends historic charm with everyday comfort.Inside, you'll find original hardwood floors, soaring high ceilings, and a stunning living room featuring a beautiful fireplace the kind of space that
Coming soon - this home is currently being enjoyed by another resident but will be available soon. This home is professionally managed by Tricon, dedicated to creating exceptional rental experiences. Featuring 3 bedrooms, 2.0 bathrooms, and approximately 1,210 square feet, this well-maintained home offers a high standard of rental living, supported by a team that puts residents first. As a
We make Pre-Leasing easy! Apply now and, once you’re approved, take this home off the market by paying a Pre-Lease Hold Fee; ask your Leasing Professional for more information. Once the home is made ready, we'll notify you that it's available for touring and for you to accept or decline. If you decline the home, we'll be happy to help you find a different home or refund your Hold Fee. This home
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