A quaint college town near I-65 in the south Indianapolis suburbs
Franklin is a suburban community on the southern edge of the Indianapolis metro area near Interstate 65. It is close enough to downtown Indianapolis – within 30 miles – for commuting into the city, but it is far enough away that it has maintained its small-town identity. The community is home to Franklin College, a private liberal arts institution that dates to the 1830s, a highly rated school district and a revitalized downtown district. It offers a slower pace and a lower cost of living than nearby Greenwood , a comparable destination in the southern suburbs.
Downtown Franklin blends historic architecture with local businesses.
Franklin neighborhoods include a variety of home styles and eras.
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Historic homes in the heart of town; new homes near major roadways
Established homes are concentrated in the heart of town. Bungalows and Victorians stand out among the community’s traditional architectural styles, which also include Cape Cods and larger Colonials. Midcentury ranch-style homes and contemporary homes built after 2000, and golf course homes are other options. Franklin does have its fair share of new and ongoing construction, which is to be expected amid Central Indiana’s growth. Newly built homes in planned subdivision settings can be found in several locations, but they are concentrated on the north side of the city near U.S. Highway 31 and the east side near Interstate 65. Most of these settings offer amenities, even if there is no HOA. For homes that are part of an HOA, monthly fees are under $50. Homes can be found for under $100,000, but prices typically range from the high $100,000s to $700,000-plus. Franklin is mostly surrounded by farmland, so acreage homes on the outskirts of town can list for as much as $1.5 million-plus. Franklin’s median sales price in the low $300,000s is about 10 percent lower than Greenwood’s. In addition, property taxes are lower in Johnson County than they are in Indianapolis or the northern suburbs.
Farmhouse-style homes are frequently seen in newer Franklin communities.
New residential developments continue to shape Franklin's growth.
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Highly rated public schools and a historic private college
The Franklin Community School Corporation is a highly rated district ranked as the second-best in Johnson County. There are five elementaries, an intermediate school, a middle school and a high school. Franklin Cub Academy Preschool opens in fall 2026, and Franklin Community High School is building a new agriculture education center. Students can begin playing sports in middle school and continue those activities through 12th grade. The high school also offers a diverse mix of non-athletic extracurricular activities, ranging from band and chorus to business and leadership organizations to an inclusive friendship group called Best Buddies. Franklin College, which is located on a 200-acre wooded campus on the south side of town, is the cultural anchor of the town. Its roughly 1,000 students add a youthful energy to an otherwise laidback suburban community.
Franklin Community High School serves students across the community.
Franklin College has provided liberal arts education since 1834.
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Access to Indianapolis via I-65, and plenty of jobs closer to home
Commuters enjoy direct access via I-65 to downtown Indianapolis, about 27 miles away. The drive can take 45-60 minutes during rush hour; otherwise, it’s about a 30-minute trip into the heart of the capital city. Franklin has a diverse economy, so prospective homebuyers don’t necessarily have to commute for work. Franklin is the Johnson County seat and home to Johnson Memorial Hospital, the city’s largest employer. Franklin is also part of the I-65 transportation and logistics corridor, with several distribution centers close by. U.S. 31, which runs through the community, connects residents to nearby Greenwood and its amenities.
Downtown offers dining, shopping and a historic theater
Downtown Franklin is the heart of the community. Popular destinations include:
Ann’s Restaurant, a comfort food staple since 1952
The Willard, an eclectic dining destination in historic digs
The Foundry Gastropub, a modern bar with an executive chef
Farm Girl Mercantile, a highlight of downtown’s boutique shops
Downtown’s Historic Artcraft Theater is a Vaudeville-era venue that hosts classic movies and community events. “They sell the best popcorn,” says Michelle McClain of Smythe and Co. Real Estate, whose office is in downtown Franklin. “And it's all run by volunteers.” The Torchfire Film Festival is an annual celebration of local and independent artists held at the theater. Other downtown events include First Fridays, where retailers stay open late and residents can shop amid live music; the Hops & Vines Festival, a celebration of beer and wine; and Franklin Halloween Town. “Every time you go downtown for an event, you run into familiar faces of business owners and neighbors,” McClain says. Big-box retailers such as Walmart, Meijer and Kroger are easily accessible along U.S. 31, known locally as Morton Street. The commercial corridor also offers a variety of restaurants.
The Artcraft Theatre has welcomed moviegoers since 1922.
The Willard occupies a restored historic building in Franklin.
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A variety of recreational destinations within the community
Residents of all ages have several ways to stay active. Recreational highlights include:
Franklin Active Adult Center
Franklin Family Aquatic Center
Historic Greenway Trails system
Several amenities-filled city parks
Franklin Cultural Arts & Recreation Center
Legends Golf Club, which offers public play
The Cultural Arts and Recreation Center offers fitness and arts programs.
Walking paths connect recreation areas within Youngs Creek Park.
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Written By
Matt Pallister
Photography Contributed By
Anna Cheng
Video By
Tyler Belile
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Timothy O'Connor,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Franklin, IN sell after 41 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Franklin, IN over the last 12 months is $324,995, up 8% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Beautiful Franklin ranch home on 1.05 Acre corner lot! Country living but yet minutes to downtown Franklin or Bargersville. Living room/hearth room with Fireplace. Primary bedroom with Walk-in closet. Full bath is huge and has corner Garden tub and separate 60" walk-in shower. And check out the size of this family room! Improvements include: New Roof, all new plumbing Pex lines, sump pump, new
Welcome to this beautifully maintained Franklin home, ideally located just a short golf cart ride from downtown Franklin. Enjoy quick access to restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, parks, seasonal events, shopping, I-65, and all Franklin schools, with the high school within walking distance. Inside, the open-concept layout is filled with natural light and designed for comfortable everyday living
The 3-Car Venture Collection offers our newest floorplans with included 3-Car Garages, now selling to the Kingsbridge masterplan in Franklin, IN. Onsite amenities include a park for leisurely fun and multi-use trails to get in a daily walk, jog or run. The peaceful city of Franklin features a vibrant downtown with numerous shops, restaurants and cultural venues, along with recreation-packed parks
Lovingly cared for by one owner for 30 years, this charming home is a rare find that blends comfort, character, and an extraordinary outdoor retreat. Step onto the welcoming front porch - surrounded by blooming trees and colorful flowers - the perfect spot to swing, sip coffee, or curl up with a good book. Inside, the main level offers an abundance of built-in storage, a dedicated office space
Beautiful Franklin ranch home on 1.05 Acre corner lot! Country living but yet minutes to downtown Franklin or Bargersville. Living room/hearth room with Fireplace. Primary bedroom with Walk-in closet. Full bath is huge and has corner Garden tub and separate 60" walk-in shower. And check out the size of this family room! Improvements include: New Roof, all new plumbing Pex lines, sump pump, new
Easy to maintain 3 bedroom home now available in Brookhaven! This home features new lighting, a programmable thermostat, laminate flooring and kitchen appliances. The living room offers lots of natural sunlight, and is joined by the dining area. Always be a part of the conversation while preparing meals in the kitchen with the half wall that allows for an open flow. The laundry room also
Excellent opportunity to own a well-maintained duplex on a prominent corner lot just blocks from historic downtown Franklin and Franklin College. Each unit offers approximately 1,100+ square feet with 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, spacious living room with fireplace, large kitchen, hardwood floors, charming built-ins, and a full unfinished basement providing abundant storage and laundry space. Separate
Welcome to this beautifully maintained Franklin home, ideally located just a short golf cart ride from downtown Franklin. Enjoy quick access to restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, parks, seasonal events, shopping, I-65, and all Franklin schools, with the high school within walking distance. Inside, the open-concept layout is filled with natural light and designed for comfortable everyday living
A rare opportunity in this carefree lifestyle located at the Legends Golf Course in Franklin IN. A comfortable 1686sqft floorplan offers split bedrooms both large enough to be the primary. 36" wide doorways accessible for any future needs. A warm and inviting living room with high ceilings, gas fireplace and open to the dining and kitchen. Kitchen has stainless appliances, a work station/coffee
Welcome home to this charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom ranch-style home perfectly situated on a quiet cul-de-sac in the desirable Knollwood Farms subdivision. Nestled on an expansive 0.31-acre double lot that backs right up to a pond, and offers a fully fenced backyard and a large mini barn for extra storage. Step inside this thoughtfully updated home featuring luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout
Nestled in one of Franklin's most prestigious neighborhoods and situated on 2.85 acres, this remarkable historic estate is waiting for its next chapter to be written. This is your chance to own a piece of Franklin and Indiana history. Endless potential for restoration to bring it back to its original beauty and customization. Located just behind Franklin College and within walking distance to
The 3-Car Venture Collection offers our newest floorplans with included 3-Car Garages, now selling to the Kingsbridge masterplan in Franklin, IN. Onsite amenities include a park for leisurely fun and multi-use trails to get in a daily walk, jog or run. The peaceful city of Franklin features a vibrant downtown with numerous shops, restaurants and cultural venues, along with recreation-packed parks
This low-maintenance, single-level home offers a spacious open layout shared between the Great Room, kitchen and dining room that helps to maximize the footprint of the interior. Two bedrooms are located off the foyer, while the luxe owner’s suite is situated privately at the other end of the home. A covered patio makes indoor-outdoor living a breeze.
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
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,
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
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,
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.
Property Id: 146273 NICE twin home on cul-de-sac: 2 bedrooms, 2 FULL baths, large great room/dining room combo, kitchen with pantry, built-in microwave, separate laundry room with washer and dryer, master bedroom has walk-in closet and full bath, refrigerator, dishwasher, single car garage with automatic garage door opener. Nice, clean home on a single floor on a quiet street. Perfect for
EXCITING NEWS: WE RECENTLY RENOVATED THIS HOME! IMPROVEMENTS INCLUDE: NEW LVP FLOORING IN COMMON LIVING AREAS OF THE HOME. APPLY TODAY OR ASK YOUR LEASING SPECIALIST FOR MORE DETAILS! Apply now or schedule your self-tour today and take the first step toward getting more than just a place to live. Rent with FirstKey Homes for a home that's right for you, plus professional service and
Apply now or schedule your self-tour today and take the first step toward getting more than just a place to live. Rent with FirstKey Homes for a home that's right for you, plus professional service and maintenance, innovative resident programs, and more; that's the power of purple! This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom rental home in Franklin, IN, might be the perfect fit for your lifestyle. W/D
Please note, our homes are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and are not reserved until the lease is signed by all applicants and security deposits are collected.Interested in this home? You clearly have exceptional taste. This charming 4.0-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home is not only pet-friendly, but also equipped with smart home features to make everyday life more convenient and
This home is coming soon. Please check to see the estimated availability date.Welcome to 2104 Bridlewood Drive, a spacious 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home offering 2,230 square feet in Franklin, Indiana. Fresh interior paint and new luxury vinyl plank flooring give the home a bright, updated feel, while a smart lock and smart thermostat add everyday convenience.The main level offers
Now offering 20-month leases. Sign today and lock in today’s low rate for the next 20 months! Offer valid for new applicants who sign a 20-month lease by July 31st, 2026. Base rent will remain at the 12-month lease rate for the duration of the 20-month term. Offer is contingent on application approval and execution of a lease agreement. Other terms and conditions may apply. This property is
Now offering 20-month leases. Sign today and lock in today’s low rate for the next 20 months! Offer valid for new applicants who sign a 20-month lease by July 31st, 2026. Base rent will remain at the 12-month lease rate for the duration of the 20-month term. Offer is contingent on application approval and execution of a lease agreement. Other terms and conditions may apply. This property is
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 1,370 square feet, this well-maintained home offers a high standard of rental living, supported by a team that puts residents first. As a
Now offering 20-month leases. Sign today and lock in today’s low rate for the next 20 months! Offer valid for new applicants who sign a 20-month lease by July 31st, 2026. Base rent will remain at the 12-month lease rate for the duration of the 20-month term. Offer is contingent on application approval and execution of a lease agreement. Other terms and conditions may apply. This property is
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