Westfield, Indiana, has quietly transformed from a modest suburb north of Indianapolis into one of the fastest-growing cities in the region. As someone who has witnessed this transformation firsthand, especially around the local school system, it’s fascinating to see how much this community has expanded and evolved. Today, Westfield is not just growing—it’s positioning itself as a premier place to live, work, and raise a family. But with this rapid growth, many are wondering: Is Westfield the next Carmel?
In this comprehensive look, we’ll explore Westfield’s massive growth, the factors driving it, how it compares to nearby communities, and what this means for families, real estate buyers, and investors. Whether you’re considering relocating to the Indianapolis metro area or simply curious about the dynamics shaping Westfield’s future, this article will provide key insights and an informed perspective.
Table of Contents
- A Surprising School Expansion
- How Westfield Compares Nearby
- What’s Really Driving the Growth
- Will Westfield Overtake Carmel?
- Why Buyers Are Choosing This Area
- Westfield vs. Other Indy Suburbs
- Conclusion: Is Living In Westfield - Is It the Next Carmel?
- FAQs About Westfield’s Massive Growth
A Surprising School Expansion
Westfield’s growth story is best seen through the lens of its schools, particularly Westfield High School. When I first started teaching here in the 1990s, the high school had just over 600 students. I was actually one of the first teachers in the then-new building, alongside a few other educators who were pioneering classes in that facility.
Fast forward to today, and the high school is pushing close to 3,000 students—an almost fivefold increase. This staggering growth reflects the broader population boom in Westfield over the past few decades.
Recently, I reconnected with a colleague who has been teaching at Westfield High School for nearly 30 years. Our conversation highlighted not only the school’s dramatic increase in enrollment but also plans for future expansion. A significant project was approved to add approximately 40,000 square feet of space to the high school, extending southward. This expansion isn’t expected to break ground until about a year from now, with a couple of years of construction thereafter.
Upon completion, this additional space will allow Westfield High School to accommodate around 4,000 students, pushing it into the top five largest high schools in Indiana by size. Currently, it ranks around 18th in the state.
How Westfield Compares Nearby
When comparing Westfield’s high school size and growth to neighboring communities, a few names stand out. Carmel remains the largest high school in Indiana, with approximately 5,200 students on a single campus. Other Indianapolis-area schools like Ben Davis, Warren Central, and Pike also have large enrollments.
Nearby cities such as Noblesville, Brownsburg, Fishers, and Hamilton Southeastern also feature sizeable high schools. Fishers, for instance, has two distinct campuses: Fishers High School and Hamilton Southeastern High School, separated by several miles.
Westfield, by contrast, currently has one high school campus. The planned expansion will delay the need for an additional high school, but the possibility remains as the city continues to grow.
What’s Really Driving the Growth
Why is Westfield growing so much? There are several key reasons behind this rapid expansion:
- Available Space: Westfield has plenty of room to grow, especially compared to more built-out suburbs like Carmel. This space allows for new residential developments, schools, and commercial projects.
- Proximity to Carmel and Indianapolis: Westfield shares a border with Carmel, making it easy for residents to access Carmel’s amenities and employment opportunities. Additionally, US-31 runs right behind Westfield High School, providing quick, unobstructed access north and south, including to downtown Indianapolis.
- Business Opportunities: Westfield has attracted corporate headquarters and new businesses, which further stimulate the local economy and attract residents.
- Community Investment: The city is actively reinvesting in itself, renovating downtown areas, expanding parks, and enhancing recreational facilities.
Two Major Projects Announced
Two headline projects highlight Westfield’s ambitions and potential to draw visitors and residents alike:
- Grand Park Expansion: Grand Park has long been a regional attraction, drawing tourists from across the country. A major expansion is underway, promising even more facilities and events that will boost Westfield’s profile.
- Grand Universe Space-Themed Park: A new 175,000-square-foot space-themed amusement park, dubbed Grand Universe, has been announced. This innovative attraction is expected to bring visitors from the Indianapolis metro and beyond, adding to Westfield’s appeal and economic vitality.
Will Westfield Overtake Carmel?
With all this growth, many ask if Westfield could eventually rival or even surpass Carmel. While Carmel currently boasts the largest high school and is more established, Westfield’s trajectory is impressive. The city’s population is pushing 60,000 as of 2025, up from less than 10,000 when I first started teaching here in the 1990s.
In the next 20 years, Westfield could very well match the size of Carmel or Fishers, especially since Carmel is nearly out of developable land. Fishers has some room to expand eastward, but Westfield’s availability of land to the north and west gives it a distinct advantage.
Why Buyers Are Choosing This Area
For homebuyers and families, Westfield offers several compelling reasons to choose it as their community:
- New Construction Opportunities: Unlike Carmel or some parts of Indianapolis, Westfield has abundant new construction homes available. This is a major draw for buyers seeking modern amenities and customizable options.
- Highly Rated Schools: Despite rapid growth, Westfield schools maintain strong reputations and continue to invest in expansions and renovations to accommodate more students.
- Safe and Family-Friendly Environment: Westfield is known for its clean, safe neighborhoods and community-oriented atmosphere, making it attractive for families.
- Convenient Location: With easy access to US-31 and proximity to Carmel and Indianapolis, residents enjoy the best of suburban and urban living.
If you have kids just starting elementary school, keep in mind that Westfield High School could look very different by the time they reach high school age. The school is already large and will likely grow even more in the coming decade.
Westfield vs. Other Indy Suburbs
When looking at the northern and western suburbs of Indianapolis, Westfield stands alongside Brownsburg, Avon, Plainfield, Fishers, Carmel, Noblesville, and others. Here’s how Westfield compares:
- Brownsburg, Avon, Plainfield: These suburbs have large populations and established communities but generally less new construction compared to Westfield.
- Fishers and Carmel: These are larger, more established suburbs with extensive amenities but limited space for new development.
- Westfield: Offers a blend of rapid growth, new construction, and expanding amenities, making it an attractive option for buyers who want to be part of a growing community.
Most of Westfield is less than 20 years old, reflecting the city’s recent boom. While there are some older homes and structures dating back to the 1960s, ‘70s, and ‘80s, they make up a small portion of the housing stock.
This means that if you prefer newer homes and a community still in development, Westfield is an excellent choice. If you prefer a more established neighborhood with a longer history, other suburbs might be a better fit.
Conclusion: Is Living In Westfield - Is It the Next Carmel?
Westfield’s growth is undeniable. From a small town with a few thousand residents to a bustling city nearing 60,000 people, it has made tremendous strides. The expansion of Westfield High School, the city’s investments in parks and attractions, and the ongoing influx of new residents all point to a bright future.
While it may not yet rival Carmel in size or prestige, Westfield is closing the gap and carving out its own identity as a premier place to live in the Indianapolis metro area. Its combination of space, accessibility, new construction, and community investment makes it a compelling choice for families and buyers looking for opportunity and growth.
If you’re considering a move to the Indianapolis area, keeping an eye on Westfield is a smart move. Whether you’re drawn by the schools, the lifestyle, or the potential for appreciation in real estate, Westfield is poised to be a major player in the years ahead. If you need assistance buying a home, feel free to reach out to me at 317-932-8620 or visit my website at www.livinginindianapolis.com.
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FAQs About Westfield’s Massive Growth
How large is Westfield High School currently, and how big will it get?
Westfield High School currently has about 3,000 students. After a planned 40,000-square-foot expansion, it will be able to accommodate approximately 4,000 students, moving it into the top five largest high schools in Indiana.
Is Westfield growing faster than nearby suburbs?
Yes, Westfield has been one of the fastest-growing cities in the Indianapolis metro, with its population increasing from under 10,000 in the 1990s to nearly 60,000 by 2025. While growth rates have slowed from their peak, they remain above average compared to other suburbs.
Are there new construction homes available in Westfield?
Absolutely. Westfield offers more new construction options than many nearby suburbs like Carmel or parts of Indianapolis, making it attractive for buyers looking for modern homes.
What are some major community projects in Westfield?
Grand Park is undergoing a significant expansion, and a new space-themed amusement park called Grand Universe is planned, which will add unique recreational opportunities and attract visitors from across the region.
Is Westfield a good place for families?
Yes, Westfield is known for its safe neighborhoods, highly rated schools, and family-friendly amenities, making it a great choice for families looking to settle down.
Will Westfield eventually have more than one high school?
Currently, there are no immediate plans for a second high school. The recent expansion is intended to accommodate growth for the foreseeable future, but as the city continues to grow, additional schools may be necessary down the road.
How does Westfield’s location benefit residents?
Westfield’s proximity to Carmel, easy access to US-31, and closeness to Indianapolis provide residents with convenient commuting options, access to urban amenities, and the benefits of suburban living.
Where can I learn more about Westfield and other Indianapolis suburbs?
There are apps and online resources that help you explore Westfield, Carmel, Fishers, and other suburbs. These tools can help you plan visits, learn about local amenities, and find neighborhoods that fit your lifestyle preferences.
