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.
This lovely artistic structure welcomes you to the Franklin community.
Franklin College 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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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 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.
Franklin's streets are laid out in a strict grid pattern.
Historic homes are found in the heart of town.
This lovely ranch-style home is nestled on a Franklin neighborhood street.
New homes come standard with driveways and attached garages.
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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.
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.
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 dates to the 1920s.
A view of Franklin's Johnson County Courthouse.
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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 & Recreation Center in Franklin is a hub for fitness, events and more.
Province Park features a playground in the city of Franklin.
The Franklin Greenway Trail is a popular destination for outdoors enthusiasts.
Explore Youngs Creek Park, a popular recreational space.
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Written By
Matt Pallister
Photography Contributed By
Anna Cheng
Video By
Anthony Pesa
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Scott White,
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 43 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 $319,997, up 10% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This well-maintained ranch home in Franklin offers over 2,200 square feet of comfortable living space with a layout designed for both everyday living and entertaining. Ideally located within walking distance to downtown, you can enjoy local shops, dining, and community events or take advantage of golf cart-friendly streets for added convenience and fun. With easy access to nearby highways,
Welcome to this small town charmer. Nestled in a peaceful setting, this home provides a quiet escape while still being just minutes from the heart of Franklin. Whether you're commuting, running errands, or just enjoying local shops and dining; you'll LOVE the convenience of this location. Step inside to find a warm and inviting layout designed for everyday living. Outside the property includes
Candyce ShowalterBetter Homes and Gardens Real Estate Gold Key
BACK ON MARKET DUE TO NO FAULT OF THE SELLERS. 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
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
This well-maintained ranch home in Franklin offers over 2,200 square feet of comfortable living space with a layout designed for both everyday living and entertaining. Ideally located within walking distance to downtown, you can enjoy local shops, dining, and community events or take advantage of golf cart-friendly streets for added convenience and fun. With easy access to nearby highways,
Pond view in Bluffs at Young's Creek. Better than new, built in 2023, 3-car garage, and positioned on a premium lot with no rear neighbors. Why look at fences when you can look at water? This home delivers a daily lifestyle upgrade with privacy, views, and a setting buyers remember long after their showing. Offering 2,296 sq ft, this 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath home features an open-concept layout
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
The first floor of this two-story home is host to a spacious open floorplan consisting of a Great Room, dining area and modern kitchen as well as a bedroom and study placed to the side of the home. Upstairs, there are four additional bedrooms, including the restful owner’s suite, and a versatile loft provides shared living space on the second floor.
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
The Aspen II floorplan has it all- from a spacious home office, an open concept living and kitchen area, a large loft, and four bedrooms with plenty of space. You cant go wrong choosing this floorplan! Make The Aspen II your own with the many optional upgrades. If you fall in love with the interior, you will love the elevations on the exterior of this new build home!Entering off the front porch,
Picture yourself in the spacious and flexible Empress floorplan a 3,200 sq. ft. home with five bedrooms, multiple living areas, and endless options to make it your own. Designed for those who love to entertain, The Empress offers both elegance and everyday comfort.Step inside to a welcoming living room that can double as a home office or sitting area. A powder room and formal dining room make
Picture yourself in The Ashton a flexible ranch-style floorplan by Arbor Homes! Starting at 1,356 square feet, The Ashton offers a split layout ideal for families or first-time homeowners. Featuring three bedrooms and two full baths, this home provides plenty of room to personalize with your choice of finishes and upgrades.Step inside from the inviting front porch to a bright, open layout. Two
The Aspen II floorplan has it all- from a spacious home office, an open concept living and kitchen area, a large loft, and four bedrooms with plenty of space. You cant go wrong choosing this floorplan! Make The Aspen II your own with the many optional upgrades. If you fall in love with the interior, you will love the elevations on the exterior of this new build home!Entering off the front porch,
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
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,
Coming SOON! Looking for a spot that's laid-back but still close to good food and local vibes? 1994 Falcon Ct in Franklin gives you that balance. Inside, the home offers a comfortable layout with inviting living space that's easy to make your own-whether that's a cozy movie setup, a work-from-home corner, or a place to host friends. Natural light and a functional flow make everyday living feel
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
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,
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.
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
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
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
Coming soon - this home is currently being enjoyed by another resident but will be available soon. Pre-lease this home now with Tricon Pre-Lease Guarantee. This home is professionally managed by Tricon, dedicated to creating exceptional rental experiences. Featuring 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and approximately 1,808 square feet, this well-maintained home offers a high standard of rental living,
Coming soon - this home is currently being enjoyed by another resident but will be available soon. Pre-lease this home now with Tricon Pre-Lease Guarantee. This home is professionally managed by Tricon, dedicated to creating exceptional rental experiences. Featuring 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and approximately 1,934 square feet, this well-maintained home offers a high standard of rental living,
Please note, our homes are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and are not reserved until the holding fee agreement is signed and the holding fee is paid by the primary applicant.This home features Progress Smart Home - Progress Residential's smart home app, which allows you to control the home securely from any of your devices. Learn more at Coming soon! This home is
Please note, our homes are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and are not reserved until the holding fee agreement is signed and the holding fee is paid by the primary applicant.Coming soon! This home is currently being enjoyed by another resident but will be available soon. Please respect their privacy and do not disturb. You can complete the application process and reserve
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