Indiana is the 19th state of the United States of America; it is also the 38th largest in terms of area and the 16th largest in terms of population. The state capital of Indiana is Indianapolis which is also the largest city in the state. Other major cities include Gary, South Bend and Fort Wayne. Located in the Great Lakes region Indiana borders Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky and Illinois. The climate in Indiana is very mild, warm summers and cool winters with very little rainfall and droughts have been known to occur. Some areas of the state such as South Bend are very prone to tornados, although the state does not fall within the area known as ‘Tornado Alley’.

Indiana saw only one battle during the whole of the American Civil War, and has the distinction of having five Indiana-born Vice-Presidents of the USA. Famous people from Indiana include James Dean, Steve McQueen and John Dillinger.

Indiana - Employment

The major industry in Indiana is manufacturing. The state has one of the largest steel production areas in the US, although other items that are produced in high quantities include electrical appliances, cars, machinery and chemicals. The state has managed to survive recent economic troubles without too much damage to their economy. The labour market in Indiana is strong and a number of firms have relocated to the area due to the high numbers of experienced workers there. This means that there are some opportunities in the area for skilled workers in manufacturing, although competition for jobs is fierce.

Pharmaceutical production is another major industry in the area and makes the state one of the biggest producers of pharmaceutical products. Agriculture is a big part of the economy too, although there are limited work opportunities in this area. Corn, grain and soybeans are among the biggest crops produced there each year. For those who want to set up their own business, the state is considered to be one of the most business friendly in the US. Workers should be aware that the state uses ‘at will’ employment, which means that contracts can be terminated at any time for no reason.

Indiana – Property

Indianapolis is the biggest city in Indiana and there are many districts there that will appeal to a newcomer looking to set up home. The Mass Avenue district is filled with entertainment venues and the district has both commercial and residential districts. The area is much sought after and as a result property prices are higher than average. In contrast, the Old Northside Historic district is filled with older properties. The properties in the area range from family homes to apartment buildings and are very popular with families due to the variety of amenities on offer.

The Wholesale district is another popular area for entertainment venues, and the properties on offer are mainly apartments, both for sale and rent. Properties are reasonably priced and the area already has a small community of expats.

The city of Gary, Indiana is also a popular destination for those who are relocating. The district of Aetna used to be an independent town and it is a large area. There are large residential estates in the area and it is very popular with families that are looking for reasonably priced property. The properties are mainly single family homes and there are many for sale and rent. The district of Ambridge was created to house workers from the local steel plant. The homes date from the 1910s and 1920s and this is another reasonably priced district which has all the amenities that a family needs.

The Black Oak district only became part of Gary in the 1970s. It is a very relaxed community and has a rural feel to it. The area is mainly single family homes and has amenities ranging from shops to schools. The Glen Park district is a residential area which is made up of family homes. The area is home to a university campus and a golf course and is very popular with families. The area of Westbrook is mainly apartments and attracts the young professionals. Properties are both rented and owner occupied and is a very good area for value for money.