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
Rhonda Krebs,
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 45 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Franklin, IN over the last 12 months is $320,000, up 10% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Rustic and Modern Elegance is the perfect way to describe this one of a kind home that sits on 11.98 acres in Johnson County. This isn't just a house, it's a testament to amazing design. Step into the heart of the home, where you will find an amazing open concept kitchen that flows into the great room. This is not your average kitchen. Thoughtfully designed with Quartzite countertops, amazing
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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
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 beautifully updated ranch offers the perfect combination of comfort, functionality, and peaceful outdoor living. From the moment you arrive, you will appreciate the inviting curb appeal, spacious 2-car attached garage, and the warm, welcoming feel this home provides. Inside, the thoughtfully designed open floor plan creates a seamless flow between the main living spaces, making the home feel
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The Venture Collection offers the new single-family homes coming soon 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 that are a favorite for all
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.
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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,
Welcome home to this bright, beautiful ranch offering 1,653sqft, 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths close to Blue Heron Park, the Greenway Trail and Franklin's shopping & restaurants! From the moment you step inside, you'll love the soaring vaulted ceilings in the living room and cozy wood-burning fireplace with gas starter. The thoughtful layout includes both a breakfast area off the kitchen and a
This 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom property at 77 1/2 E Jefferson St offers 935 square feet of living space. Located on the 2nd floor, The living room provides ample room for relaxation and features air conditioning for comfort. The kitchen is equipped with essential appliances, and a washer/dryer is included for convenience. Each bedroom is designed to accommodate various furniture arrangements. The
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,
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Now offering 22-month leases. Sign today and lock in today’s low rate for the next 22 months! Offer valid for new applicants who sign a 22-month lease by June 30th, 2026. Base rent will remain at the 12-month lease rate for the duration of the 22-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 22-month leases. Sign today and lock in today’s low rate for the next 22 months! Offer valid for new applicants who sign a 22-month lease by June 30th, 2026. Base rent will remain at the 12-month lease rate for the duration of the 22-month term. Offer is contingent on application approval and execution of a lease agreement. Other terms and conditions may apply. This property is
Property Id: 2567313Welcome to your new home at 648 Johnson Ave in Franklin, IN! This cozy single-unit property offers a wall-to-wall laminate flooring and a great location for only $825/month. Enjoy the convenience of outside smoking and bring along your furry friends (cats and small dogs allowed). Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity!
EXCITING NEWS: WE ARE CURRENTLY RENOVATING THIS HOME! NOTE THAT THE PHOTOS SHOWN REPRESENT THE HOME BEFORE RENOVATION AND DO NOT REFLECT ANY UPDATES. PLANNED IMPROVEMENTS INCLUDE: NEW STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES. 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
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
Property Id: 776877Searching for your next home? CALL and let us assist you in ending that search. As a bonus to ending your search you can get 1 month of RENT FREE! CALL and ask, "how do I end my search for a home and get 1 month of FREE RENT?" CALL TODAY and you could CALL this 3-bed 3-bath HOME TOMORROW!Please make sure to call and speak with someone at the leasing office
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, 2.0 bathrooms, and approximately 1,360 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 4 bedrooms, 2.0 bathrooms, and approximately 2,090 square feet, this well-maintained home offers a high standard of rental living,
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