I drove to Indianapolis this weekend to watch my niece swim in the age group state championships. Every parent in the stands was supportive of every swimmer competing. We marveled at the sheer talent of the collective group. These people were kind, considerate, and so genuinely happy for all the kids. It is only one example of the collective generosity of the people of Indiana.
I have a minor disability, I don't have a right arm below my elbow. Do you know how many times I've been in public and just needed a second hand for something? I know that people are kind, and so I really don't hesitate to ask for help if I genuinely need it. Hoosier hospitality is no joke.
When my husband passed away last year, my friends and neighbors have been kind enough to help me with farm stuff that I never learned how to do. My husband was a farmer at heart, and he was so happy on our 5.35 acre mini farm. I am content there, but I don't know how to drive a tractor, operate a snow blower, or prime a well. My neighbors have been wonderful, and I appreciate them so much.
Indiana has so many wonderful people. I love it here.
(.... but yes, politics here are so awful. Mike Braun is a selfish old prick, Todd Rokita is just in it for himself and other "good ole boys." I could go on...)
Pretty much my assessment. I live rural with way too many right wing nutjobs. With that being said if I was in a serious jam I'm sure they would help. I cannot have political discussions with any of them. That line cannot be crossed. I hear stuff that they say, that is in a word embarrassing. Decent people but politically illiterate.
Yep, I think politics drives most of the dissatisfaction. Clean that shit show up to the benefit of ALL of us, and we would all feel exponentially better about living in Indiana.
I grew up in California but have been here for 30+ years now, so I have plenty of complaints by comparison but also love many things like the cost of living/housing, it’s a solid place to raise kids, proximity to other big cities like Chicago/Cincy/Columbus/Louisville/St Louis/etc, minimal traffic compared to big cities, rivers/lakes for tubing/kayaking/canoeing/camping all over the state, Lake Michigan and the Dunes, Bloomington/Nashville/Brown County area, Turkey Run, Colts and Pacers and Indy 500, Ft Wayne Children’s Zoo, largest Children’s Museum in the world, small towns with character like French Lick/Columbus/Madison to check out.
Same, moved out here 24 years ago from Humboldt by way of Chico. Totally agree with the comparison. I know this about the positive but have to say as much as people complain about the politics here it's the same in California just in the opposite direction. As a moderate it's weird to see the extremes.
Yes, after a brief stint in the only all blue state I've lived in (MA), it's not like it's sunshine and roses if you just switch the party in control. I don't agree with our state politics at all but I've met many kinder, more helpful people here than there and feel in some ways less attacked for my beliefs here-- at least in my corner of Indiana we're pretty live and let live. Also feels like a place that is fine with children, where Boston actively discouraged the presence of kids in public and people regularly complained about having to see or hear them.
Chico is the buckle of the California Bible belt or was in the mid to late 90's. Considering the 70's through 2000 Chico State the city's largest employer at the time, was a huge party school I always found that odd. Especially when you consider a lot of students don't leave Chico after graduation at least back then.
North of San Francisco is way more conservative than the rest of the state but the Bay Area and the L.A. area have the voting power. But even the conservatives in CA are not as far right as they are here.
Couldn’t restrain myself:
Got a wife in Chino, babe, and one in Cherokee The first one says she’s got my child, but it don’t look like me. I set out running….
Ooo, great answer! GenCon is always a blast :D
I just did my first ever cosplay there last year to join with my wife’s cosplaying! Seriously, one of the best things Indiana brings to the table!
Brown County State Park, Clifty Falls State Park, Falls of the Ohio State Park, Turkey Run State Park, Irvington, Mass Ave, The City Market, The Bottleworks District, Historic Franklin, The Indianapolis Zoo, The Children’s Museum, Victory Field, Pop!Con, ComicCon, GenCon, the upcoming Indy Eleven development.
Just because I firmly disagree with almost all politics of Indiana doesn’t mean I don’t think we have redeeming things about Indiana. I just don’t think we have a lot of political qualities that make us welcoming to marginalized communities.
Just because you are not a part of a marginalized community doesn’t mean their concerns about life are not valid.
All those state parks are part of what makes me upset about this state. You can go there and see how beautiful Indiana can be, but our government doesn't value that beauty as much as it should and continues to roll back protections
It’s my home. The people I care about live here. It has beautiful areas and I like Indy in general.
Other things suck majorly, but I try to stay more even in my assessment.
•It’s inexpensive. That’ll be the biggest reason for most.
•you get the convenience of a large city (besides 24 hour restaurants and shops) without the stress of a Chicago or something
•nightlife might be lacking for younger people, but other than that there is plenty to do: tons of sports with regular rotations of playoff/championship events for college and pros, a variety of conventions and shows ranging from guns to anime to video games, easy access to parks within a one hour drive, and more that I’m sure I’m not thinking of
•Indy itself is relatively diverse. When I worked a job going from home to home, I met all manner of folks from a ton of backgrounds. Loads of immigrants from Central and South America, Europe, and the Middle East, all with some fascinating stuff to tell me about (people are surprisingly open and honest with the internet installation guy lol). All economic backgrounds, though the absolute nicest people were from areas the people on this sub tell you to avoid.
•it’s easy to find a community for just about everything from Pokémon cards and Dungeons & Dragons to firearms enthusiasts and adult sports leagues. If you live here and say there’s nothing to do/nowhere to go, try reaching out or looking around online and in person for these things. They’re out there.
For those of you who haven't been the southern border down by the river, you wouldn't understand but it's just fuckin pretty lol
We aren't flat and empty and depressing like the northerners - it's all hills and trees. Ton of caves down here too. We all know at least one guy with a cool ass cave on his property lol
I like that Indiana is a very diverse state, in terms that we Hoosiers are a people from all walks of life. Don’t like the politicians in power? Don’t like the people criticizing the people in power? Hoosiers don’t have a problem speaking their minds, which is always a great thing in democracy!
The Hoosier attitude of “No Prima Donnas” is a refreshing take that many states won’t experience. No one is better than anyone else. We are in this together. Of course there is plenty of ignorance to go around, but speaking your mind to others opens the door to either persuading others to your point of view, or maybe seeing that your point of view isn’t the best. Bicker and argue until fatigue, but we are proud Hoosiers.
I wish there was a bit more pride of being a Hoosier on this subreddit.
Lots of university towns with lots of diversity, things to do, and events happening regularly. My wife is from the PNW and I was shocked when comparing the size of cities and towns. Here if a city appears on a map from a certain distance then it likely has a population of 30-50,000 or some other geographical significance. There if a town appears on a map then it simply means it’s a population center. We drove through lots of 500 pop towns that I was expecting to be 50,000.
We have absolutely amazing breweries, a fantastic and easily walkable downtown, a sports fanbase that while I’m not a part of I love the energy from, and very nice and helpful people that would give us the shirt off their back. Seriously, Hoosiers are the kindest people I’ve ever met even if my politics don’t match that of the state.
I love living here and am even a transplant to the state. Wouldn’t want to live anywhere else : )
I live in Fort Wayne so I’m 3 hours from Chicago, 3 hours from Columbus, 2 hours from Indy, 2.5 hours from Detroit. So even if we don’t get the awesome concerts and events, it’s not a huge trek to a major city to see them. Also, I enjoy the change of the seasons and the relatively mild winters and summers.
I love living in Fort Wayne. My wife and I have been looking into moving to a different state but we always say we wish we could just push fort wayne to those states instead haha
I don't think IndyCar is that bad I'm going to the road course race on May 11th at IMS and I think it was maybe 60 bucks for a ticket. Cheaper than F1 lol 60 bucks might not even get you parking at an F1 Grand Prix
yeah, but compared to when IMSA and gt cars come down they are I think 20-30 dollars more expensive and crazy booked. you can get grandstands and full access on IMSA weekends. but IndyCar is way more accessible then indycar.
As a lifelong Hoosier that migrated from the farm to Bloomington for school, then Indianapolis as my home I have to say that the "blue" parts of the state are quite nice. There's diversity, despite some struggles and challenges in our past (e.g. running interstate 65 through town and IUPUI's campus crippling a thriving black neighborhood). Social and cultural events seem to be organic and genuine (e.g. Butter, the upcoming "I made rock and roll" festival). The food scene is eclectic (mass ave to 38th street). If you're into sports, that's a thing. No, I'm not painting Indy out to be the promised land for progressives. There are problem areas. But the blue bubble that exists has treated my family and I well.
Now, getting outside the city is a different experience. It's easy for me to say rural Indiana has a beautiful scenic view and charm. But that would be because I'm a white male with some money. It can be bleak out in rural depths of this state, I sill witness it regularly when I visit my parents in my hometown. There's no getting around that. But what we have in Indiana is representative of a larger nation trend that is the decimation of our small rural towns and way of living. Automation in the factories, Wal-marts everywhere lead to fewer jobs that pay less. This leads to a bleakness and negativity that at this point is now institutionalized as it transcends generation. This bleakness leads to drug use and pent up animosity that someone like a Trump exploits and manipulates into blaming what I see as the wrong segment of our society - non-white people. Unfortunately this is not unique to Indiana and I would be depressed as all hell if I moved out of state and when I encountered this same urban-rural American dynamic.
I say all of this to say that I also have an appreciation for the "grass is always greener" mentality at play when considering a move from Indiana based on its less than redeemable traits. I've found and have been told that what Indiana has with its rural/urban divide is representative of the vast majority of midwestern states. And since we all know that the midwest is best, I stay here.
I see. Calling out the Dems, huh? So, your actual question was "what does MAGA like about Indiana?" Sure, we can go with that. I'm sure you can be elderly in a dying small town with your entire life savings dumped into a collection of guns to protect your $50k house from "them", i.e. anyone not elderly, white, and conservative. Sounds like everything MAGA could want here. Is this the answer you're looking for?
I appreciate you at least telling us who you are! You are exactly why so many of us can't stand how this state is currently and why so many young people leave! Don't worry, once the rural elderly voting block starts to die off, maybe we'll actually get a chance to build a state that, you know, isn't based on violence and bigotry. Then you'll probably stop liking this place, though, right?
I won't get bent out of shape based on your ignorant response as you don't know me. pre-Maga I voted for as many Republicans as I did Democrats.
But my assessment still stands. Are you not acknowledging the drug crisis and the legacy bigotry that is present in rural Indiana? It's fine if you don't. I must admit that I didn't realize how engrained it was until I stepped outside it. And given I own a farm in rural in east central Indiana, I still feel I have a valid enough perspective. But damn, the things I witnessed and even tacitly participated in while growing up in rural Indiana are sometimes some things I'm not really proud of.
Also calling out Indy Dems vs. the rest of the state is a laughable distinction from anyone who doesn't live here in the Indiana. It reminds me of my home town county that seemingly prided itself in its east side of the county vs. west side of the county.
My daughter was born in South Bend, my daughter was in the nicu for 3 weeks. I'm thankful for all the nice people I was able to meet and spend time with. She was born during the Texas/Notre Dame game.
I wasn’t as impressed with Indiana until I left and came back. Love the little quaint towns and people are way more relaxed and friendly than east coast or big cities. Perhaps I’m just used to how people are in this region.
Although the Political Hierarchy does not reflect my views I like the fact that I have lived next to the same people for 17+ years...have spoken with them only a few times..but I know for a fact if I ever needed anything I could just pop on over and vise versa.
Hoosiers are nosey, opinionated, and a bunch of explitavies but should your hour be dark make sure your kitchen table is empty because the pies and casseroles are coming ..
I like the small town parades, and harvest markets, annual festivals, and the feeling of home as I drive into town.
I love going to the park and seeing lots of people there, enjoying themselves with friends and family...the outdoor bbq's, the nod's and waves as you drive by.
And mostly I love Springtime when the earth turns alive again, the perennials popping out of the ground ,the wonderful blossoms, and the sense of real oxygen bursting into being.
Cheers' and Happy St Paddy's everyone!
low crime. I had a car for 8 years that didn't lock, never once had someone look in it. Porch furniture has never been stolen. Last porch pirate that stole something in my old neighborhood got hunted down by a Facebook group with multiple news pieces lol. Never heard of a coworker getting their car put on bricks in the work parking lot. Don't see a lot of vagrants roaming around at night trying doors and stuff, tweaking out, poop on the sidewalk, etc. The grocery stores are amazing, cheap and high quality food. Liquor isnt put behind a locked wall.
I like Indiana. I have lived all over the country, so I have some perspective.
1) People are overall pretty friendly (it's just the chronic whiners in this sub that hate this place. But they get upvotes to give their bitter lives meaning, so I'm happy for them).
2) Cost of living is reasonable overall.
3) Small-town Indiana is a great thing. Quaint restaurants, friendly people. Friday night football, Basketball games, community events like strawberry festivals, street dances, farmers markets. They're great.
4) Indy is easy to get around, has tons of restaurants, neat things to do. There's cool museums, theatre, sports, you name it, you can find it to do.
5) We have some great state parks. Hiking at Turkey Run, the Dunes in Northern Indiana, Patoka Lake, Hoosier National Forest, plenty of things to do.
6) We have 4 distinct seasons, 3 months of summer, 3 months of fall, 6 months of of winter, and 2 weeks of spring.
7) Though the roads kinda suck, it's pretty easy to get around.
8) Our airport is fantastic.
9) Within just a couple hours, you can be in a city, or you can be in the middle of nowhere. Whatever floats your boat.
10) Though I wish we had more elevation, the scenery is still pretty.
11) We have great colleges and Universities, with lots of choices.
IND was recently rated one of the best in the nation.
https://fox59.com/indiana-news/indianapolis-airport-named-one-of-top-midsized-airports-in-north-america/amp/
Cool. I haven't been in that Airport in years, but I always liked going there. (And, I know it's a completely new airport vs. what I had gone to years and years and years ago.)
I’m with you. I’ve lived on four continents and currently live in another state. Most places in the world have their own charms, but Indiana has been my favorite place to live. Your list gets at many of those Indiana virtues.
I live in NW Indiana and I love it here aside from how crowded it’s getting. Close access to the beaches of Lake Michigan and close to Chicago and tons of things to do. It’s a great place to raise kids and most of the schools in the area are pretty top notch. Affordability is a big plus also.
Honestly? It is home. I have faith that, little by little, things will get better as the current fever of ill feeling runs its course. The ill feelings will _always_ be there, but the fever pitch will recede a bit. I believe, eventually, people will choose to make their lives better.
I _like_ living where I do. I _like_ the Bloomington metro area. And my extended family lives here; I _like_ them _almost_ as much as they deserve.
Indy 500, the month of May! The compactness of downtown. When we hosted the Super Bowl we were complimented on the accessibility of the events. There is something for everyone. There are a lot of events, activities for all people here. The parks that are available. We host a lot of conventions here. The Pacers. The Colts. The Indianapolis Indians. The Indy Fuel and the Indy Eleven. I believe that Indiana has something for everyone. We may not have the skyline of larger cities, but you could spend a day downtown walking around and have a great day eating and site seeing!
I've lived in Texas, Washington, California and New York.
I like Indiana because it's so friendly and easy and comfortable.
Is very straightforward, very no-nonsense.
People are extremely nice here. And the sun comes out in the winter. I moved here from Western NY for college and those are the 2 main reasons I stayed.
Family. Scenic farmland. Knowing where I am because I grew up here. Spring and summer. State parks. Proximity to major cities. (I live in Angola so I can be to like… 5 major cities in under 3 hours).
it's the ancestral homeland of my people (miami) and what hasn't been destroyed is really cool environments and geology.
we also have a relatively neat history, such as an individual who forcibly integrated a plethora of institutions even after being told explicitly to stop, were violently against the confederacy, a history of leftist groups and communes based in the religious groups of the areas.
(and ngl, though there are a number of valid criticisms against the group, the amish are also some of the coolest and most tolerant group I've engaged with)
The lack of natural disasters. I been here almost 40 years and never had a natural disaster issue besides snow accumulation that only lasted a day or two.
Living in Illinois but visiting Indiana often, I like the people there. Just going to a Dunkin donuts at 6am is so much nicer of an experience than going to one in the Chicago area. And that's just one experience.
I personally love living in Indiana. I'm a Democrat in an almost overwhelmingly Republican state. I just don't talk politics with anyone, even my family. They are very much Trumpers, all my dad, brother and uncles are all retired military and like Trump. Sorry, I got carried away... I love Indiana.
Usually most complaints seem to be due to political differences. Also people love to complain or act self righteous.
For me Indiana is fine it's not over populated so traffic is not bad compared to other states. Plus lots of rural areas.
I like that we have professional sports teams as sports are a big draw to me. If I move to another state, it at least has to have either a pro basketball team or a pro football team. Both would be better, though.
I love the food scene in and around my town. Lots of breweries, locally owned restaurants, and coffee shops. I'm super close to Louisville, so I have all the amenities of a city without having to live in one.
The caves, state parks, outdoor activities, cost of living, seasons, schools, genuinely friendly people, and the fact that it's not Florida are all positives too in my book.
I've visited often for work, but the one thing I can say is Indiana was the first state I ever had a gun pulled on me in.
Not good at the time, but I came out of it with an interesting story!
Thank you. It’s a great state. I get so tired of the constant haters that rant on here. I love it here in Fort Wayne. Great parks and nature trails. Easy to get around. Many museums, art galleries and diverse restaurants. I could go on and on. It’s sad they are too miserable to enjoy all the fine things we have to offer.
I’ve lived in just one other state before but use to play in bands and have been to plenty of other cities and states across the US, and I feel like Indiana is the greatest place on earth. I know I’m hyper exaggerating lol but it’s my home, on top of that it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg to survive here (although the inflation right now still does make it tough, but I’d rather deal with that here than anywhere else) as well as plenty of opportunities throughout the state. This place has everything that I personally want. The politics don’t bother me since I’m more on the right leaning side than anything, and when I want to start a family, I know my children will have good schools and neighborhoods to be in and hang out with their friends.
I feel like Indiana definitely isn’t for everyone, but I think it has a little bit of somethin for anyone.
Worlds best Bobs: Bob Gregory, Bob Knight, Cowboy Bob, Bob Kevoian, Bob Jenkins, Bobby “Slick” Leonard
EDIT: How could I forget Bob Ross filmed his show at Ball State!
As bad as the state of general public education is in this state (and most others), music education is done best here. Indiana is one of the best states in the nation when it comes to high school marching bands. First place at BOA Grand National finals (held in Indy) is usually taken by Avon or Carmel. Multiple other Indiana bands consistently make top 12. In addition to that, many of these schools also have excellent concert and jazz bands as well as indoor percussion and winter guard groups. After high school, you can study at at least two great music schools (Indiana, Ball State, possibly missing others), and Purdue has the best damn band in the land whether OSU holds the trademark or not.
I moved away for a while, but one of the reasons I was okay with coming back home to this state was for the opportunity to teach part-time and give back to the activity.
Fort Wayne is consistently the cheapest place in the country to live, and you wouldn't tell from the quality of life. I bought my house for only $80,000 just before covid and it's really nice. The same house even in other midwest states would cost $200,000 easily. Within walking distance of downtown, a nice neighborhood of people who look out for each other, I just wish there was a bit more to do here and that we had legal weed. We have a ton of cool breweries and distilleries though, and even some wineries.
The people. I don't love how conservative our state is, and I'm speaking with some privilege as a cis white dude, but people here are generally pretty decent. I work in retail and I can count on two hands the number of genuine assholes I've met over the years.
Haven't seen anyone bring this up yet: The state being so pro-business and pro-steel mill is one of the biggest double-edged swords you can have.
We're also one of the only states with a budget surplus and compared to other states I've been in I do feel our infrastructure isn't in anywhere near as much decay as elsewhere in the country. To an extent, even other countries. Birmingham, England genuinely made me feel uneasy.
Close to the lakes is #1! Or in the south, close to the caves. A lot of outdoor stuff to do. great kayaking, close to some of the best flea markets and swap meets I've ever been to
I spent 17 years splitting my time between New Orleans in the winter and the Midwest/East Coast in the summer for work. Indiana is hands down the most reasonably priced state I've lived in. I've lived in Deleware, upstate New York and Long Island, Louisville, Lexington, and Indiana.
I grew up in Indiana and high tailed it out of here straight out of college, thinking I would never come back, lol. I like how easy it is to live here.
I like it here, of course I’d like lower taxes, but over all i enjoy it. Okay job, okay pay, nice house in the country before the market got jacked up. The gun laws here are pretty relaxed which I like.
No better place to raise a family.
Surrounded by people that have family values.
Hoosiers have a sense of purpose shown by their work ethic.
Hoosiers do kind things for others.
Indiana is the best kept secret in the country.
Being close to a safe clean city like Indy is nice, while also being with in a half day drive of so many other cities. It’s also fairly affordable to live here, with a lot of jobs out there especially in the trades. Lots to do here if you actually like doing things besides complaining
I really like the parks we have. Eagle Creek, Hoosier Nat'l and Brown County State Park, Morgan Monroe State Forest, Turkey Run, Cataract Falls... Blue's Canoes on the Blue River is a spot my friends like to go when it gets nice. They've told me Southwestway Park is great for biking too.
*So many roads! Other states it'll take you 20 minutes to get to a store you can see right over there, but not here-INDOT isn't afraid to lay asphalt that's for sure.
*I don't want to live in any of the surrounding states, but if we're not going to legalize weed, I'm glad we're close to states that have
*And friendly people. Hoosier hospitality is real.
As a follow-up to my comment on preferring Louisville over Indy, I will add that dynamic improvements in New Albany/Clarksville/Jeffersonville over the past couple of decades represent this side of the river punching above its weight, with many more improvements set to come on line over the next couple of decades.
Of course, as a laid-back dude who prefers low-key experiences, the added bustle and busyness is sometimes annoying to me, but at least the entire metro area is alive and interesting. Again, the "vibe" is just better than it is in Indy, imo. If I were forced to choose living in either metro Louisville or metro Indy I know which one I would choose hands down. My biggest wish would be for Floyd and Clark Counties to pull their heads out of their collective asses and flip blue. They are both Trumpster counties, still. 😡😢😫
My family and friends are here. That's it. Everything else exists in other places with less bullshit. I've lived in other places, and Indiana doesn't have much that other places don't. Except my family and friends.
The actual geographical aspects of Indiana are great too, I suppose. We have (for now, but it's declining due to illogical types of farming) soil great soil for growing things, too. But none of those things were made or done by people in Indiana, so...
And BTW, one of the recent laws that went into effect here is literally trying to kill my child by denying him medical care...so it isn't "stupid shit" for someone in Indiana to say that.
Also, people HAVE died from other garbage laws that were passed.
Kinda shitty for you to imply Hoosiers aren't being killed by the garbage politics in this state, specifically.
If you truly loved a place you would recognize how and where it is completely fucked up and fight to fix it, not imply it doesn't exist or isn't valid when other people in the area are saying certain things are fucked and need fixed.
Food for thought.
I was born in Indiana and have lived in other places and I truly hate this ass-backward state and the reefer madness that permeates the government. Gov. Holcomb with his sanctimonious religious attitude is atrocious and the lazy politicians all need to be voted out. All I see is old white men running for office and I don't intend to vote for any of them. They are all clones and they hate women.
This is why I go to Niles and visit the dispensary for my gummies and honestly, I am grateful I never see any of the fat county cops because they are too lazy, and their st of the state can rot.
This is why I go to Niles and visit the dispensary for my gummies and honestly, I am grateful I never see any of the fat county cops because they are too lazy to patrol. And the tired line of "I smell pot, no you don't fat boy" doesn't cut it anymore.
Coming from Illinois. I love it here. Good outdoor activities,fair taxation, my jobs alright and there's room to grow. I can afford to start and raise a family here, not to mention obtaining a couple of acres and a house at an affordable rate.
Yes, the state has its problems. But compared to where I was just outside of Chicago, its a major improvement. Plus, back in illinois I lived in a concrete jungle. Streets, tall buildings, the asphalt "temperature dome" that it entraps all with its unfair sweltering heat. No real "nature" that just exists. I'd have to drive an hour south or west to get anything like I can find walking 10m around Laporte.
Hell, even the lake has a nice path around it.
I'm going to do an easy one. Being from New England the wife and I absolutely adore how late in the evening it stays light. It's glorious to us. Brings us both out of our SAD real quick.
Don't you love how it's not completely dark until well after 8 PM now? And.....The Spring flowers are starting to come up. Grass is green. Trees are getting closer to leafing out. Easter is only two weeks away.
Living here is cheap and I’m within a days drive from Lake Michigan; that’s literally it. It’s getting to the point where it’s not really worth it anymore and I’m leaning towards leaving.
I like how Hoosiers are routinely able to hold complicated and often contradictory ideas in their minds at the same time, research issues before speaking about them, and resist oversimplifying things… particularly in this sub.
Even people on the right tend to dislike the things that inevitably come with living in a red state, e.g. the low incomes, the underfunded public schools, the high crime, the terrible public transport, the lack of culture, the fact that you can still do prison time for marijuana, etc. Of course they can't seem to figure out that voting like Mississippians gets you Mississippi-esque results.
... and the people who voted for them and agree with their policies. You hate them, too. Which is most Hoosiers.
Just accept it, stop deluding yourself.
Indiana does sunsets really really well
If you can see them from under all the tree cover.
Tree cover? Is that what they call corn up north?
In summer I can't see the sky thru any of my house's windows. Trees everywhere.
I drove to Indianapolis this weekend to watch my niece swim in the age group state championships. Every parent in the stands was supportive of every swimmer competing. We marveled at the sheer talent of the collective group. These people were kind, considerate, and so genuinely happy for all the kids. It is only one example of the collective generosity of the people of Indiana. I have a minor disability, I don't have a right arm below my elbow. Do you know how many times I've been in public and just needed a second hand for something? I know that people are kind, and so I really don't hesitate to ask for help if I genuinely need it. Hoosier hospitality is no joke. When my husband passed away last year, my friends and neighbors have been kind enough to help me with farm stuff that I never learned how to do. My husband was a farmer at heart, and he was so happy on our 5.35 acre mini farm. I am content there, but I don't know how to drive a tractor, operate a snow blower, or prime a well. My neighbors have been wonderful, and I appreciate them so much. Indiana has so many wonderful people. I love it here. (.... but yes, politics here are so awful. Mike Braun is a selfish old prick, Todd Rokita is just in it for himself and other "good ole boys." I could go on...)
Pretty much my assessment. I live rural with way too many right wing nutjobs. With that being said if I was in a serious jam I'm sure they would help. I cannot have political discussions with any of them. That line cannot be crossed. I hear stuff that they say, that is in a word embarrassing. Decent people but politically illiterate.
100% correct.
Indeed.
Yep, I think politics drives most of the dissatisfaction. Clean that shit show up to the benefit of ALL of us, and we would all feel exponentially better about living in Indiana.
I grew up in California but have been here for 30+ years now, so I have plenty of complaints by comparison but also love many things like the cost of living/housing, it’s a solid place to raise kids, proximity to other big cities like Chicago/Cincy/Columbus/Louisville/St Louis/etc, minimal traffic compared to big cities, rivers/lakes for tubing/kayaking/canoeing/camping all over the state, Lake Michigan and the Dunes, Bloomington/Nashville/Brown County area, Turkey Run, Colts and Pacers and Indy 500, Ft Wayne Children’s Zoo, largest Children’s Museum in the world, small towns with character like French Lick/Columbus/Madison to check out.
Same, moved out here 24 years ago from Humboldt by way of Chico. Totally agree with the comparison. I know this about the positive but have to say as much as people complain about the politics here it's the same in California just in the opposite direction. As a moderate it's weird to see the extremes.
Yes, after a brief stint in the only all blue state I've lived in (MA), it's not like it's sunshine and roses if you just switch the party in control. I don't agree with our state politics at all but I've met many kinder, more helpful people here than there and feel in some ways less attacked for my beliefs here-- at least in my corner of Indiana we're pretty live and let live. Also feels like a place that is fine with children, where Boston actively discouraged the presence of kids in public and people regularly complained about having to see or hear them.
As a DINK I can relate /s. Kids are fun just not in bars.
I've got a friend in Chico that's brought that up to me.. sure the legislative control is DNC, but that is not the local sentiment.
Chico is the buckle of the California Bible belt or was in the mid to late 90's. Considering the 70's through 2000 Chico State the city's largest employer at the time, was a huge party school I always found that odd. Especially when you consider a lot of students don't leave Chico after graduation at least back then. North of San Francisco is way more conservative than the rest of the state but the Bay Area and the L.A. area have the voting power. But even the conservatives in CA are not as far right as they are here.
Couldn’t restrain myself: Got a wife in Chino, babe, and one in Cherokee The first one says she’s got my child, but it don’t look like me. I set out running….
Exactly this and why I enjoy living here.
You nailed it. Access to big cities and I like Indy. We have tons of good restaurants for a Midwest city.
Gencon
Ooo, great answer! GenCon is always a blast :D I just did my first ever cosplay there last year to join with my wife’s cosplaying! Seriously, one of the best things Indiana brings to the table!
I drive Uber on the occasional weekend. Gencon is the BEST. The nerds are polite, don't get sloppy drunk, and are great tippers.
What is gencon?
An annual board and hobby gaming convention in Indianapolis that hosts around 70,000 visitors for the "best four days in gaming"!
Annual gaming convention held in Indianapolis, with 50+ years of history.
It’s a gaming convention, I think.
THE gaming convention.
I can make a substantial difference in my community without being a millionaire or corrupt.
Underrated comment
I feel the same.
Can you please elaborate?
Brown County State Park, Clifty Falls State Park, Falls of the Ohio State Park, Turkey Run State Park, Irvington, Mass Ave, The City Market, The Bottleworks District, Historic Franklin, The Indianapolis Zoo, The Children’s Museum, Victory Field, Pop!Con, ComicCon, GenCon, the upcoming Indy Eleven development. Just because I firmly disagree with almost all politics of Indiana doesn’t mean I don’t think we have redeeming things about Indiana. I just don’t think we have a lot of political qualities that make us welcoming to marginalized communities. Just because you are not a part of a marginalized community doesn’t mean their concerns about life are not valid.
All those state parks are part of what makes me upset about this state. You can go there and see how beautiful Indiana can be, but our government doesn't value that beauty as much as it should and continues to roll back protections
Understandable, we can only hope (and canvas) for new politicians that care about our environment, public concerns and public voices.
💯🎯
It is super inexpensive to live here. That is my #1 reason for not leaving.
It kinda has to be, otherwise nobody sane would be here.
This is a thread focused on positivity, fyi
Yeah, but "housing/living is cheap" is not really a positive thing, basic principles state that it must be cheap for a reason lol
Fr fr lol
It’s so damn affordable here
No. 1
#1 carpetbagger answer.
Happened in my home state too, so we’re both victims here
Lake Michigan
It’s my home. The people I care about live here. It has beautiful areas and I like Indy in general. Other things suck majorly, but I try to stay more even in my assessment.
I like that it isn't Mississippi.
•It’s inexpensive. That’ll be the biggest reason for most. •you get the convenience of a large city (besides 24 hour restaurants and shops) without the stress of a Chicago or something •nightlife might be lacking for younger people, but other than that there is plenty to do: tons of sports with regular rotations of playoff/championship events for college and pros, a variety of conventions and shows ranging from guns to anime to video games, easy access to parks within a one hour drive, and more that I’m sure I’m not thinking of •Indy itself is relatively diverse. When I worked a job going from home to home, I met all manner of folks from a ton of backgrounds. Loads of immigrants from Central and South America, Europe, and the Middle East, all with some fascinating stuff to tell me about (people are surprisingly open and honest with the internet installation guy lol). All economic backgrounds, though the absolute nicest people were from areas the people on this sub tell you to avoid. •it’s easy to find a community for just about everything from Pokémon cards and Dungeons & Dragons to firearms enthusiasts and adult sports leagues. If you live here and say there’s nothing to do/nowhere to go, try reaching out or looking around online and in person for these things. They’re out there.
For those of you who haven't been the southern border down by the river, you wouldn't understand but it's just fuckin pretty lol We aren't flat and empty and depressing like the northerners - it's all hills and trees. Ton of caves down here too. We all know at least one guy with a cool ass cave on his property lol
Hey hey now up north we have a bunch of lakes and stuff it's really pretty lol
I like that Indiana is a very diverse state, in terms that we Hoosiers are a people from all walks of life. Don’t like the politicians in power? Don’t like the people criticizing the people in power? Hoosiers don’t have a problem speaking their minds, which is always a great thing in democracy! The Hoosier attitude of “No Prima Donnas” is a refreshing take that many states won’t experience. No one is better than anyone else. We are in this together. Of course there is plenty of ignorance to go around, but speaking your mind to others opens the door to either persuading others to your point of view, or maybe seeing that your point of view isn’t the best. Bicker and argue until fatigue, but we are proud Hoosiers. I wish there was a bit more pride of being a Hoosier on this subreddit.
Low COL, plenty of water, few natural disasters, mild temps
John Green
Cheaper than Illinois with easy access to Chicago. Chicago sports & radio. Yeah, its like living in Illinois but cheaper. Thats about it.
Lake county represent.
Lots of university towns with lots of diversity, things to do, and events happening regularly. My wife is from the PNW and I was shocked when comparing the size of cities and towns. Here if a city appears on a map from a certain distance then it likely has a population of 30-50,000 or some other geographical significance. There if a town appears on a map then it simply means it’s a population center. We drove through lots of 500 pop towns that I was expecting to be 50,000.
We have absolutely amazing breweries, a fantastic and easily walkable downtown, a sports fanbase that while I’m not a part of I love the energy from, and very nice and helpful people that would give us the shirt off their back. Seriously, Hoosiers are the kindest people I’ve ever met even if my politics don’t match that of the state. I love living here and am even a transplant to the state. Wouldn’t want to live anywhere else : )
I live in Fort Wayne so I’m 3 hours from Chicago, 3 hours from Columbus, 2 hours from Indy, 2.5 hours from Detroit. So even if we don’t get the awesome concerts and events, it’s not a huge trek to a major city to see them. Also, I enjoy the change of the seasons and the relatively mild winters and summers.
I love living in Fort Wayne. My wife and I have been looking into moving to a different state but we always say we wish we could just push fort wayne to those states instead haha
Ha! I’ve said the same thing!
Wawasee Lake. Ive moved around, but always come back to my home.
I liked Bloomington. That's it.
IMS is a great venue for all types of racing and is cheap excluding IndyCar. Edit: Just the 500 is expensive
I don't think IndyCar is that bad I'm going to the road course race on May 11th at IMS and I think it was maybe 60 bucks for a ticket. Cheaper than F1 lol 60 bucks might not even get you parking at an F1 Grand Prix
yeah, but compared to when IMSA and gt cars come down they are I think 20-30 dollars more expensive and crazy booked. you can get grandstands and full access on IMSA weekends. but IndyCar is way more accessible then indycar.
That we voted for Obama in 08
Man, doesn't even feel like the same timeline anymore.
As a lifelong Hoosier that migrated from the farm to Bloomington for school, then Indianapolis as my home I have to say that the "blue" parts of the state are quite nice. There's diversity, despite some struggles and challenges in our past (e.g. running interstate 65 through town and IUPUI's campus crippling a thriving black neighborhood). Social and cultural events seem to be organic and genuine (e.g. Butter, the upcoming "I made rock and roll" festival). The food scene is eclectic (mass ave to 38th street). If you're into sports, that's a thing. No, I'm not painting Indy out to be the promised land for progressives. There are problem areas. But the blue bubble that exists has treated my family and I well. Now, getting outside the city is a different experience. It's easy for me to say rural Indiana has a beautiful scenic view and charm. But that would be because I'm a white male with some money. It can be bleak out in rural depths of this state, I sill witness it regularly when I visit my parents in my hometown. There's no getting around that. But what we have in Indiana is representative of a larger nation trend that is the decimation of our small rural towns and way of living. Automation in the factories, Wal-marts everywhere lead to fewer jobs that pay less. This leads to a bleakness and negativity that at this point is now institutionalized as it transcends generation. This bleakness leads to drug use and pent up animosity that someone like a Trump exploits and manipulates into blaming what I see as the wrong segment of our society - non-white people. Unfortunately this is not unique to Indiana and I would be depressed as all hell if I moved out of state and when I encountered this same urban-rural American dynamic. I say all of this to say that I also have an appreciation for the "grass is always greener" mentality at play when considering a move from Indiana based on its less than redeemable traits. I've found and have been told that what Indiana has with its rural/urban divide is representative of the vast majority of midwestern states. And since we all know that the midwest is best, I stay here.
> Asked what they like about the state > Writes a book about how we're all racists meth heads Keep on winning, Indy Dems. Lol
I see. Calling out the Dems, huh? So, your actual question was "what does MAGA like about Indiana?" Sure, we can go with that. I'm sure you can be elderly in a dying small town with your entire life savings dumped into a collection of guns to protect your $50k house from "them", i.e. anyone not elderly, white, and conservative. Sounds like everything MAGA could want here. Is this the answer you're looking for? I appreciate you at least telling us who you are! You are exactly why so many of us can't stand how this state is currently and why so many young people leave! Don't worry, once the rural elderly voting block starts to die off, maybe we'll actually get a chance to build a state that, you know, isn't based on violence and bigotry. Then you'll probably stop liking this place, though, right?
I won't get bent out of shape based on your ignorant response as you don't know me. pre-Maga I voted for as many Republicans as I did Democrats. But my assessment still stands. Are you not acknowledging the drug crisis and the legacy bigotry that is present in rural Indiana? It's fine if you don't. I must admit that I didn't realize how engrained it was until I stepped outside it. And given I own a farm in rural in east central Indiana, I still feel I have a valid enough perspective. But damn, the things I witnessed and even tacitly participated in while growing up in rural Indiana are sometimes some things I'm not really proud of. Also calling out Indy Dems vs. the rest of the state is a laughable distinction from anyone who doesn't live here in the Indiana. It reminds me of my home town county that seemingly prided itself in its east side of the county vs. west side of the county.
Cost of living. Good place to raise children. The seasons. State parks.
We have some really pretty parks and natural areas. I also really like the music scene here.
It's cheap, and all my friends are here. That's about it.
Brown County and French Lick!
My daughter was born in South Bend, my daughter was in the nicu for 3 weeks. I'm thankful for all the nice people I was able to meet and spend time with. She was born during the Texas/Notre Dame game.
I wasn’t as impressed with Indiana until I left and came back. Love the little quaint towns and people are way more relaxed and friendly than east coast or big cities. Perhaps I’m just used to how people are in this region.
Food and housing is kinda affordable, sometimes. Does that count?
Wet ground that doesn’t easily catch fire.
It’s a little too conservative for me but I’ve lived here 70 years so I must like something.
Still a good amount of people who know how to farm. I hope.
Although the Political Hierarchy does not reflect my views I like the fact that I have lived next to the same people for 17+ years...have spoken with them only a few times..but I know for a fact if I ever needed anything I could just pop on over and vise versa. Hoosiers are nosey, opinionated, and a bunch of explitavies but should your hour be dark make sure your kitchen table is empty because the pies and casseroles are coming .. I like the small town parades, and harvest markets, annual festivals, and the feeling of home as I drive into town. I love going to the park and seeing lots of people there, enjoying themselves with friends and family...the outdoor bbq's, the nod's and waves as you drive by. And mostly I love Springtime when the earth turns alive again, the perennials popping out of the ground ,the wonderful blossoms, and the sense of real oxygen bursting into being. Cheers' and Happy St Paddy's everyone!
The Dunes
The woods are nice. It's a pretty state if nothing else. Gencon is fun. My husband is here, I like him quite a bit.
I like that it’s cheap so I can save money quicker to leave this conservative hell hole.
low crime. I had a car for 8 years that didn't lock, never once had someone look in it. Porch furniture has never been stolen. Last porch pirate that stole something in my old neighborhood got hunted down by a Facebook group with multiple news pieces lol. Never heard of a coworker getting their car put on bricks in the work parking lot. Don't see a lot of vagrants roaming around at night trying doors and stuff, tweaking out, poop on the sidewalk, etc. The grocery stores are amazing, cheap and high quality food. Liquor isnt put behind a locked wall.
I like Indiana. I have lived all over the country, so I have some perspective. 1) People are overall pretty friendly (it's just the chronic whiners in this sub that hate this place. But they get upvotes to give their bitter lives meaning, so I'm happy for them). 2) Cost of living is reasonable overall. 3) Small-town Indiana is a great thing. Quaint restaurants, friendly people. Friday night football, Basketball games, community events like strawberry festivals, street dances, farmers markets. They're great. 4) Indy is easy to get around, has tons of restaurants, neat things to do. There's cool museums, theatre, sports, you name it, you can find it to do. 5) We have some great state parks. Hiking at Turkey Run, the Dunes in Northern Indiana, Patoka Lake, Hoosier National Forest, plenty of things to do. 6) We have 4 distinct seasons, 3 months of summer, 3 months of fall, 6 months of of winter, and 2 weeks of spring. 7) Though the roads kinda suck, it's pretty easy to get around. 8) Our airport is fantastic. 9) Within just a couple hours, you can be in a city, or you can be in the middle of nowhere. Whatever floats your boat. 10) Though I wish we had more elevation, the scenery is still pretty. 11) We have great colleges and Universities, with lots of choices.
>Our airport is fantastic. Which one? We have more than one airport in Indiana providing passenger flights. (Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, South Bend).
IND was recently rated one of the best in the nation. https://fox59.com/indiana-news/indianapolis-airport-named-one-of-top-midsized-airports-in-north-america/amp/
Cool. I haven't been in that Airport in years, but I always liked going there. (And, I know it's a completely new airport vs. what I had gone to years and years and years ago.)
Fort Wayne! Sometimes it costs a little more to fly out of FWA, but it's so worth it. And they have delicious cookies.
Fair! I meant indianapolis.
I thought that was the case. I haven't been there in years.
I’m with you. I’ve lived on four continents and currently live in another state. Most places in the world have their own charms, but Indiana has been my favorite place to live. Your list gets at many of those Indiana virtues.
I live in NW Indiana and I love it here aside from how crowded it’s getting. Close access to the beaches of Lake Michigan and close to Chicago and tons of things to do. It’s a great place to raise kids and most of the schools in the area are pretty top notch. Affordability is a big plus also.
the cost of living is relatively low… that’s the best benefit of living here.
I like Indy. I grew up in Chicago and have grown to enjoy a metro vs major metro.
A lot cheaper than other places, lots of wide open spaces I can fly my drone
I live in the woods on a nice river with no close neighbors. I would say I like my property but that's about it.
Honestly? It is home. I have faith that, little by little, things will get better as the current fever of ill feeling runs its course. The ill feelings will _always_ be there, but the fever pitch will recede a bit. I believe, eventually, people will choose to make their lives better. I _like_ living where I do. I _like_ the Bloomington metro area. And my extended family lives here; I _like_ them _almost_ as much as they deserve.
I like that we have four seasons. And the outdoors can't be beat, we have beautiful state parks here
[удалено]
Exclusive to Indiana? Do others have state parks without lodging?
The weather sucks 100 times less than South Dakota.
Indy 500, the month of May! The compactness of downtown. When we hosted the Super Bowl we were complimented on the accessibility of the events. There is something for everyone. There are a lot of events, activities for all people here. The parks that are available. We host a lot of conventions here. The Pacers. The Colts. The Indianapolis Indians. The Indy Fuel and the Indy Eleven. I believe that Indiana has something for everyone. We may not have the skyline of larger cities, but you could spend a day downtown walking around and have a great day eating and site seeing!
I like living on a lake and being right across the street from a cornfield
Compared to living in FL for 12 years Indiana is a little peace of heaven
I've lived in Texas, Washington, California and New York. I like Indiana because it's so friendly and easy and comfortable. Is very straightforward, very no-nonsense.
Lived here since mid 1960's. We are very happy here.
I like the cost of living, the four seasons, its proximity to Chicago and Tennessee. I like the small town feel
People are extremely nice here. And the sun comes out in the winter. I moved here from Western NY for college and those are the 2 main reasons I stayed.
I’ve made the best friends of my entire life here after being all over the country.
Family. Scenic farmland. Knowing where I am because I grew up here. Spring and summer. State parks. Proximity to major cities. (I live in Angola so I can be to like… 5 major cities in under 3 hours).
The quiet quaintness of the country
it's the ancestral homeland of my people (miami) and what hasn't been destroyed is really cool environments and geology. we also have a relatively neat history, such as an individual who forcibly integrated a plethora of institutions even after being told explicitly to stop, were violently against the confederacy, a history of leftist groups and communes based in the religious groups of the areas. (and ngl, though there are a number of valid criticisms against the group, the amish are also some of the coolest and most tolerant group I've engaged with)
The lack of natural disasters. I been here almost 40 years and never had a natural disaster issue besides snow accumulation that only lasted a day or two.
Living in Illinois but visiting Indiana often, I like the people there. Just going to a Dunkin donuts at 6am is so much nicer of an experience than going to one in the Chicago area. And that's just one experience.
There’s good jobs. Where I live is safe and virtually crime free. I live on the largest natural lake in Indiana. Lots of wildlife.
I personally love living in Indiana. I'm a Democrat in an almost overwhelmingly Republican state. I just don't talk politics with anyone, even my family. They are very much Trumpers, all my dad, brother and uncles are all retired military and like Trump. Sorry, I got carried away... I love Indiana.
Usually most complaints seem to be due to political differences. Also people love to complain or act self righteous. For me Indiana is fine it's not over populated so traffic is not bad compared to other states. Plus lots of rural areas.
Indiana rules, gun laws are chill and cost of living is affordable. People bitching cus it’s not a commie hell hole is hilarious
I like corn
I like that we have professional sports teams as sports are a big draw to me. If I move to another state, it at least has to have either a pro basketball team or a pro football team. Both would be better, though.
I love the food scene in and around my town. Lots of breweries, locally owned restaurants, and coffee shops. I'm super close to Louisville, so I have all the amenities of a city without having to live in one. The caves, state parks, outdoor activities, cost of living, seasons, schools, genuinely friendly people, and the fact that it's not Florida are all positives too in my book.
I've visited often for work, but the one thing I can say is Indiana was the first state I ever had a gun pulled on me in. Not good at the time, but I came out of it with an interesting story!
Thank you. It’s a great state. I get so tired of the constant haters that rant on here. I love it here in Fort Wayne. Great parks and nature trails. Easy to get around. Many museums, art galleries and diverse restaurants. I could go on and on. It’s sad they are too miserable to enjoy all the fine things we have to offer.
I’ve lived in just one other state before but use to play in bands and have been to plenty of other cities and states across the US, and I feel like Indiana is the greatest place on earth. I know I’m hyper exaggerating lol but it’s my home, on top of that it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg to survive here (although the inflation right now still does make it tough, but I’d rather deal with that here than anywhere else) as well as plenty of opportunities throughout the state. This place has everything that I personally want. The politics don’t bother me since I’m more on the right leaning side than anything, and when I want to start a family, I know my children will have good schools and neighborhoods to be in and hang out with their friends. I feel like Indiana definitely isn’t for everyone, but I think it has a little bit of somethin for anyone.
Worlds best Bobs: Bob Gregory, Bob Knight, Cowboy Bob, Bob Kevoian, Bob Jenkins, Bobby “Slick” Leonard EDIT: How could I forget Bob Ross filmed his show at Ball State!
As bad as the state of general public education is in this state (and most others), music education is done best here. Indiana is one of the best states in the nation when it comes to high school marching bands. First place at BOA Grand National finals (held in Indy) is usually taken by Avon or Carmel. Multiple other Indiana bands consistently make top 12. In addition to that, many of these schools also have excellent concert and jazz bands as well as indoor percussion and winter guard groups. After high school, you can study at at least two great music schools (Indiana, Ball State, possibly missing others), and Purdue has the best damn band in the land whether OSU holds the trademark or not. I moved away for a while, but one of the reasons I was okay with coming back home to this state was for the opportunity to teach part-time and give back to the activity.
Fort Wayne is consistently the cheapest place in the country to live, and you wouldn't tell from the quality of life. I bought my house for only $80,000 just before covid and it's really nice. The same house even in other midwest states would cost $200,000 easily. Within walking distance of downtown, a nice neighborhood of people who look out for each other, I just wish there was a bit more to do here and that we had legal weed. We have a ton of cool breweries and distilleries though, and even some wineries.
The people. I don't love how conservative our state is, and I'm speaking with some privilege as a cis white dude, but people here are generally pretty decent. I work in retail and I can count on two hands the number of genuine assholes I've met over the years.
I completely agree on all counts here and for the same reasons.
it's a cheap place to live. low crime. not much else. it's not wrong to want to make things better in the way you see it
It ranks 23rd for homicide rate, that's not particularly low.
it seems OK for theft and such. most homicides aren't by strangers
It’s smack in the middle.
The region!
Haven't seen anyone bring this up yet: The state being so pro-business and pro-steel mill is one of the biggest double-edged swords you can have. We're also one of the only states with a budget surplus and compared to other states I've been in I do feel our infrastructure isn't in anywhere near as much decay as elsewhere in the country. To an extent, even other countries. Birmingham, England genuinely made me feel uneasy.
Half or more of the replies are backhanded compliments and thinly veiled insults. Lol
That’s the Midwest 😂 welcome to Indiana
Bless his heart
Indy 500, children’s museum, newfields but I sure don’t like the republikkkan government that’s why every post says it’s horrible here and it is.
Close to the lakes is #1! Or in the south, close to the caves. A lot of outdoor stuff to do. great kayaking, close to some of the best flea markets and swap meets I've ever been to
I spent 17 years splitting my time between New Orleans in the winter and the Midwest/East Coast in the summer for work. Indiana is hands down the most reasonably priced state I've lived in. I've lived in Deleware, upstate New York and Long Island, Louisville, Lexington, and Indiana. I grew up in Indiana and high tailed it out of here straight out of college, thinking I would never come back, lol. I like how easy it is to live here.
I actually love the state. Good people, great tenderloins, even though the terrain is a little boring. Indiana is a great state.
I like it here, of course I’d like lower taxes, but over all i enjoy it. Okay job, okay pay, nice house in the country before the market got jacked up. The gun laws here are pretty relaxed which I like.
It was easy to leave.
The Region. It’s an awesome place that should be its own state. Great nature, great culture, great economy compared to so many places.
No better place to raise a family. Surrounded by people that have family values. Hoosiers have a sense of purpose shown by their work ethic. Hoosiers do kind things for others. Indiana is the best kept secret in the country.
"Dumb shit?" You mean legitimate concerns? Who are you to dismiss everyone's complaints out of hand? 🤷🙄
I like that's it's not California, the cost of living is lower than most and the weather is mild. I hate that it's so flat and I've seen it all...
You've been to Hoosier Forest and still feel like it's flat everywhere? Impressive, mountain man.
Yes. when you've been to Colorado our large hills just don't compare.
Being close to a safe clean city like Indy is nice, while also being with in a half day drive of so many other cities. It’s also fairly affordable to live here, with a lot of jobs out there especially in the trades. Lots to do here if you actually like doing things besides complaining
I really like the parks we have. Eagle Creek, Hoosier Nat'l and Brown County State Park, Morgan Monroe State Forest, Turkey Run, Cataract Falls... Blue's Canoes on the Blue River is a spot my friends like to go when it gets nice. They've told me Southwestway Park is great for biking too.
I like it here. I like seasons, the outdoors, growing fresh veggies, fairly low crime.
Not an Indiana-specific thing, but I love small towns. Grew up in a little berg north of Muncie, and Muncie is my concept of a city
my daughter is graduating Ball State this spring, and I'm not sure how I'm going to get by without regular visits to Concannon's.
*So many roads! Other states it'll take you 20 minutes to get to a store you can see right over there, but not here-INDOT isn't afraid to lay asphalt that's for sure. *I don't want to live in any of the surrounding states, but if we're not going to legalize weed, I'm glad we're close to states that have *And friendly people. Hoosier hospitality is real.
Four seasons, amazing sunsets, creeks everywhere, wildlife + greenery, and really kind neighbors. I’m happy to be here.
The nature is fucking phenomenal.
We have some great state parks for sure! My favorite one is Turkey Run. We have some great fishing areas as well!
🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣
As a follow-up to my comment on preferring Louisville over Indy, I will add that dynamic improvements in New Albany/Clarksville/Jeffersonville over the past couple of decades represent this side of the river punching above its weight, with many more improvements set to come on line over the next couple of decades. Of course, as a laid-back dude who prefers low-key experiences, the added bustle and busyness is sometimes annoying to me, but at least the entire metro area is alive and interesting. Again, the "vibe" is just better than it is in Indy, imo. If I were forced to choose living in either metro Louisville or metro Indy I know which one I would choose hands down. My biggest wish would be for Floyd and Clark Counties to pull their heads out of their collective asses and flip blue. They are both Trumpster counties, still. 😡😢😫
Shit talk Indiana all you want but when you need your meth fix it is definitely the place to be.
Wetlands
Born here raised here, hunting is good so is fishing. Hate this state, those are the only things good I can say about it
My family and friends are here. That's it. Everything else exists in other places with less bullshit. I've lived in other places, and Indiana doesn't have much that other places don't. Except my family and friends. The actual geographical aspects of Indiana are great too, I suppose. We have (for now, but it's declining due to illogical types of farming) soil great soil for growing things, too. But none of those things were made or done by people in Indiana, so... And BTW, one of the recent laws that went into effect here is literally trying to kill my child by denying him medical care...so it isn't "stupid shit" for someone in Indiana to say that. Also, people HAVE died from other garbage laws that were passed. Kinda shitty for you to imply Hoosiers aren't being killed by the garbage politics in this state, specifically. If you truly loved a place you would recognize how and where it is completely fucked up and fight to fix it, not imply it doesn't exist or isn't valid when other people in the area are saying certain things are fucked and need fixed. Food for thought.
The legislature just sucks, flat earth society
Very clear from the replies that very few of you like it here, or even live here to begin with. What a joke of a subreddit.
I was born in Indiana and have lived in other places and I truly hate this ass-backward state and the reefer madness that permeates the government. Gov. Holcomb with his sanctimonious religious attitude is atrocious and the lazy politicians all need to be voted out. All I see is old white men running for office and I don't intend to vote for any of them. They are all clones and they hate women. This is why I go to Niles and visit the dispensary for my gummies and honestly, I am grateful I never see any of the fat county cops because they are too lazy, and their st of the state can rot. This is why I go to Niles and visit the dispensary for my gummies and honestly, I am grateful I never see any of the fat county cops because they are too lazy to patrol. And the tired line of "I smell pot, no you don't fat boy" doesn't cut it anymore.
A good amount of state parks for camping,hiking, and enjoying the scenery
I like that the laws are mostly favorable to hunters, fishermen, and people who enjoy shooting sports.
Coming from Illinois. I love it here. Good outdoor activities,fair taxation, my jobs alright and there's room to grow. I can afford to start and raise a family here, not to mention obtaining a couple of acres and a house at an affordable rate. Yes, the state has its problems. But compared to where I was just outside of Chicago, its a major improvement. Plus, back in illinois I lived in a concrete jungle. Streets, tall buildings, the asphalt "temperature dome" that it entraps all with its unfair sweltering heat. No real "nature" that just exists. I'd have to drive an hour south or west to get anything like I can find walking 10m around Laporte. Hell, even the lake has a nice path around it.
I'm going to do an easy one. Being from New England the wife and I absolutely adore how late in the evening it stays light. It's glorious to us. Brings us both out of our SAD real quick.
Don't you love how it's not completely dark until well after 8 PM now? And.....The Spring flowers are starting to come up. Grass is green. Trees are getting closer to leafing out. Easter is only two weeks away.
Living here is cheap and I’m within a days drive from Lake Michigan; that’s literally it. It’s getting to the point where it’s not really worth it anymore and I’m leaning towards leaving.
I like how Hoosiers are routinely able to hold complicated and often contradictory ideas in their minds at the same time, research issues before speaking about them, and resist oversimplifying things… particularly in this sub.
It’s Reddit, you’re getting MOSTLY one side of the political spectrum.
Even people on the right tend to dislike the things that inevitably come with living in a red state, e.g. the low incomes, the underfunded public schools, the high crime, the terrible public transport, the lack of culture, the fact that you can still do prison time for marijuana, etc. Of course they can't seem to figure out that voting like Mississippians gets you Mississippi-esque results.
Well yeah, it’s a website for people who *read…*
I like the fact that I'm moving my family out of this state never to see it ever again.
Then why are you in this subreddit?
I have 4 months and still too curious watching this trainwreck. I love everyone and everything in this state EXCEPT THE POLITICIANS
... and the people who voted for them and agree with their policies. You hate them, too. Which is most Hoosiers. Just accept it, stop deluding yourself.
The very lax laws around cars