Living & Working in Lafayette
Rent vs. Buy Analysis
Median home price is $315,000 . Buying analysis suggests renting is more cost-effective for short-term stays, while buying may be viable for long-term residents.
Neighborhoods by Value & Commute
New Chauncey
URBANWabash Shores
SUBURBANQuick Decision Guide
Major HVAC Employers
Top-Rated School Districts in Lafayette, IN
The here School Corporation (LSC) is the primary district serving the area, known for its strong academic performance. According to Niche, LSC ranks among the top districts in Indiana, with high test scores and student achievement metrics.
Childcare Costs in Lafayette, IN
- Daycare: Monthly costs average $800–$1,200 for full-time care, depending on the facility and age of the child.
- Nanny: Rates range from $1,500–$2,500 per month for full-time care.
Sources: Care.com and Indiana FSSA.
Recommended Pediatricians or Family Clinics
- Lafayette Pediatric Clinic: Offers comprehensive care for children, including flu shots and wellness checks.
- Ochsner here General Medical Center: Features a pediatric department with specialized care.
Source: O
Work-Life Balance Culture in Lafayette, IN
here promotes a balanced work-life culture, influenced by its mix of academic institutions like Purdue University and local businesses. Companies such as Premise Health emphasize employee well-being and flexible work environments. The city's smaller size contributes to less commute stress compared to larger urban areas.
Fitness Facilities
- Gyms:
- Anytime Fitness: 24/7 access, membership starts at $30/month.
- Lafayette Family YMCA: Offers group classes and pools, membership around $50/month.
- Parks & Trails:
- here Heritage Trail Park: A 2.95-mile trail ideal for walking and running.
- Columbian Park: Features a fitness trail with outdoor exercise equipment.
Dining Costs
- Lunch: $8–$12 (e.g., DT Kirby’s for sandwiches).
- Dinner: $15–$25 (e.g., McGraw’s Steakhouse).
- Drinks: $4–$8 for craft beer (e.g., People’s Brewing Company). For more details, check local menus here.
Annual Events and Festivals
- TASTE of Tippecanoe (June): Food and music festival.
Financial Facts for Lafayette, IN
- State Income Tax Rate: Indiana has a flat state income tax rate of 3.23% as of 2023. This rate applies uniformly across the state, including Lafayette. Source: Indiana Department of Revenue.
- Property Tax Average: The average property tax rate in Lafayette (Tippecanoe County) is approximately 2.5875% for certain taxing districts, as per 2021 data. For example, a home valued at $200,000 would incur around $5,175 annually. Source: Tippecanoe County Taxing Districts.
- Cost of Living Compared to Indianapolis: Lafayette's cost of living is approximately 6% lower than the national average, with housing costs 14% cheaper. Compared to Indianapolis, here is generally more affordable, though specific percentages vary by category. Source: RentCafe.
- Growing Industries Creating Jobs: Key industries driving job growth in Lafayette include advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and technology, bolstered by Purdue University's research and innovation ecosystem. The goods-producing sector has seen notable employment increases. [Source: Indiana Business Research Center](https://www