Lakefront living and small-town vibes color life in Monticello
Monticello bursts to life when summer tourists flock to the lakes and the Indiana Beach Amusement & Water Park, but year-round residents call it home for its small-town vibe and city amenities. This is a popular spot among second-time homebuyers, thanks in part to lakefront properties not far from Indianapolis and Chicago. Realtor Ryan Clemons says the trend is generational, with many residents returning because of fond childhood memories. "We have everything that you need — we've got an amusement park, we've got tourist attractions, but it's not the city, so you feel like you're getting away," says Clemons, co-founder of the Redlow Group and a Monticello resident since 2005. "Twenty years ago, I remember coming here from the city and telling my wife, I'm like, it smells different. The air is cleaner, and the whole feel of the town is different. That's how we ended up here, and a lot of people do the same thing."
Lake homes dominate the market, but inland homes gain popularity
High-end lake homes are the bread and butter of Monticello's housing market. While some lake properties reach $1.2 million, the median single-family home price is about $210,000. Ranging from traditional ranch-style, to contemporary and cabin-inspired designs, they often incorporate outdoor decks and private docks. Inland houses include everything from vintage Victorians to new construction and buildable lots. "There are a lot of good subdivisions here that aren't necessarily on the water, which I think is probably what a lot of people miss," he says. "When people are looking for commuting and they're not necessarily looking for a lake house . . . a $500,000 house on the lake is going to give you half of what you can get in a nice subdivision for $500,000." Properties on the water may be more susceptible to flooding.
Lakes and Indiana Beach amusement park draw locals and tourists
Boating and fishing are among the top activities here, with ample space on Lakes Shafer and Freeman. Monticello's seven city-run parks include a skate park, public pool and Bluewater Beach Park, a quiet stretch of waterfront with fishing piers and public boating access. Perched on Lake Shafer, Indiana Beach is another top attraction and a big reason why over one million people visit each year. Highlights include roller coasters, water slides, fireworks displays and a summer concert series featuring tribute acts. It's typically open seasonally.
Early college options through Twin Lakes schools
Through the Twin Lakes School Corporation, kids can attend Meadowlawn Elementary School and Roosevelt Middle School, which both earn B-minus grades from Niche. Twin Lakes High School earns a B. High schoolers can get a head start on college and careers with Advanced Placement courses, career and technical education programs and dual enrollment opportunities through Ivy Tech Community College.
Year-round shopping and dining with seasonal tourist surges
Clemons says shopping and dining are consistent year-round — the only variation is the crowds. "One day you may have thousands of people in Walmart and then one day it's you and three other neighbors you know in town," he says. Walmart Supercenter and Kroger are staples in town. Oak and Barrel is a favorite dinner spot, serving up steak dinners, American fare and international-inspired entrees. "It's food that people are literally driving from the cities to have because of how good it is," Clemons says. Riverside Restaurant & Lounge offers seafood and meat entrees such as prime rib and pork chops, with outdoor seating along the water.
Fireworks and parades to celebrate the seasons
Locals enjoy annual traditions, including the Fourth of July fireworks show over the lake. "That's something people look forward to all the time," Clemons says. The Monticello Spirit Festival rings in the summer with a weekend of live music, food, vendors and hot dog eating contests in June. December brings a lighted Christmas parade, with prizes for most creative and best overall entries.
Monticello connects to major Midwestern cities
Monticello enjoys a central spot between major Midwestern cities. Chicago is about 115 miles north, and Indianapolis is less than 90 miles south via Interstate 65. U.S. Route 24 provides a local connection to the interstate. Indiana University Health White Memorial Hospital serves the Monticello community with a range of services, including 24-hour emergency care. Indianapolis International Airport, a little over 90 miles south, offers nonstop routes to over 50 destinations across four countries.
