First Impressions of Carmel Indiana

Upswingnow • September 29, 2023

First Impressions of Carmel Indiana

If you’re thinking of moving to Carmel Indiana, and think you already know what Carmel is all about, you might want to pay this little town a visit. This fast-growing Indianapolis suburb has something to offer nearly everyone, but if you haven’t been to Carmel in a while, or have only frequented certain parts of town, your first impression of Carmel may be a bit skewed. To really know what Carmel is all about, hop in the car and take a drive around town. I mean, really drive all around town! You may find Carmel will surprise you!

What is your first impression of Carmel, Indiana?

It’s no secret that Carmel has a name that precedes it. But it isn’t just Carmel’s name that gives off an impression. Carmel isn’t a small town, and different parts of town all have their own unique atmosphere. If you’ve never been to Carmel, or have only experienced one neighborhood, your perception of Carmel could be skewed.

Carmel is constantly growing and changing. It’s one of the largest Indianapolis suburbs. With over 100,000 residents, construction around town is seemingly endless. If you are thinking of moving to Carmel and you haven’t visited recently, it’s absolutely worth another trip. Check out a few parts of town, see what feels the same and what feels different. Do you like newer infrastructure, or something with an older feeling? You can find just about anything in Carmel, but it will likely take some scoping out.

Westfield IN neighborhood, How far north is too far for Indianapolis

East Carmel vs. West Carmel

As we mentioned, Carmel is a multifaceted city with many vibes, but perhaps the clearest difference in the buildings and infrastructure in Carmel is that between East Carmel and West Carmel.

East Carmel is the older side of Carmel, and the buildings and homes reflect this. West Carmel has grown outward as the city has gotten larger, so everything here feels a bit newer. There is even a difference in density between the two. If you were to only visit West Carmel, you might find it to be too “new construction” and spread out for you. If that isn’t what you like, that doesn’t mean there isn’t still a great fit for you in East Carmel, or Downtown.

Carmel Indiana, How far north is too far for Indianapolis

How can you get a better idea of what living in Carmel is really like?

There are a few areas that are important to visit if you really want to get to know Carmel. Of course, you want to drive around both East Carmel and West Carmel, but even Downtown has a few parts to check out. The Arts and Design District is well known, sleek, and modern. But there is more to Downtown Carmel than just this area.

Midtown and the northern side of Downtown Carmel feel different yet. At the bare minimum, if you check out both sides of town, and all of the downtown areas in Carmel, you’ll have a better chance of seeing what living in Carmel is really like. But the best idea, of course, is getting in touch with an expert! I have a curated list of all of the areas I think potential newcomers should visit. Reach out to me, I would love to share it with you!

Looking to buy a house for sale in Carmel IN?

Are you ready to check out Carmel and see if your first impression holds up? Reach out to me at Compton Realty today. I’d love to give you some pointers about visiting Carmel, and help you find your perfect home in this beautiful Indianapolis suburb.

jason compton

A  former teacher turned full-time real estate agent serving Greater Indianapolis. I help buyers, sellers, and relocation clients make informed moves—especially those coming from out of state. From neighborhood insights to home tours, my goal is to simplify the process and help you feel confident in every step.

ready to move?

A man is standing in front of a city skyline on the cover of a relocation guide for indianapolis.

WATCH OUR VIDEOS

Stay Informed

Insights, Tips & Life in Indianapolis

Your go-to resource for all things real estate and Indy living. Whether you're buying, selling, relocating, or just curious about the local market, our blog is packed with helpful articles, expert advice, and community highlights to keep you informed and inspired.

An aerial view of a city skyline at night
By Upswing 2 June 19, 2025
Do you really know Downtown Indianapolis? We have listed fun things to do and see in this beautiful historic Downtown Indy. The post How big is Downtown Indianapolis? appeared first on Living In Indianapolis.
A city skyline with a river in the foreground at sunset.
By Upswing 2 June 19, 2025
Discover 5 Northern Indianapolis Suburbs; each varies in size, atmosphere & cost of living and we've compiled these basics for you. The post Getting to Know the Northern Indianapolis Suburbs appeared first on Living In Indianapolis.
An aerial view of an american flag flying in a park.
By Upswing 2 June 19, 2025
Top Reasons to live in Fishers - This suburb is known for its unique character, family-friendly nature, and affordability. The post 5 Reasons to live in Fishers appeared first on Living In Indianapolis.
A woman is sitting at a desk writing with a pencil
By Upswing 2 June 19, 2025
Historic charm, a beautiful reservoir, and one of the largest amphitheaters in the Indy. Read these pros and cons of living in Noblesville. The post Pros & Cons of Living in Noblesville appeared first on Living In Indianapolis.
A blue sign that says subscribe and learn about living in indianapolis and the surrounding metro
By Upswing 2 June 19, 2025
The best part of living on the East side of Fishers, Indy is you get a bit more space and the great outdoors this could be the place for you. The post Why is the east side of Fishers, IN Different? appeared first on Living In Indianapolis.
An aerial view of a small town with a green building in the middle of the street.
By Upswing 2 June 19, 2025
This friendly suburb may have a few reasons not to move to Westfield, Indiana from the location, affordability and growing neighborhoods. The post 5 Reasons NOT to Move to Westfield, Indiana appeared first on Living In Indianapolis.
A blue sign that says subscribe and learn about living in indianapolis and the surrounding metro
By Upswing 2 June 19, 2025
Live in this beautiful, charming neighborhood of Indianapolis - Broad Ripple. It has character, a great food scene, & is near Downtown. The post Broad Ripple – One of Indianapolis’s Best Neighborhoods appeared first on Living In Indianapolis.
A blue sign that says subscribe and learn about living in indianapolis and the surrounding metro
By Upswing 2 June 19, 2025
Lawrence, Indiana is one of the best places to live in Indianapolis and we have listed the pros and cons of living in Lawrence. The post Pros & Cons of Living in Lawrence IN appeared first on Living In Indianapolis.
Two people are walking down a stone path in a park.
By Upswing 2 June 19, 2025
These walkable suburbs of Indianapolis provide countless benefits from walking to amenities, reduced carbon emissions, and health benefits. The post Top 5 Walkable Suburbs of Indianapolis appeared first on Living In Indianapolis.
A city street with lots of tall buildings and cars driving down it
By Upswing 2 June 19, 2025
Only have a couple of days to visit Indianapolis? We have you covered! Get to know Indianapolis with these must-see & must dos when visiting! The post How to get to know Indianapolis in one Weekend appeared first on Living In Indianapolis.
Show More