Carmel Apartments and Rentals

Carmel, Indiana, located just north of Indianapolis, lures in new residents from across the country with its charm. This award-winning city boasts a fantastic location, a thriving arts scene, involved residents and a historic past, all factors that are attractive to those looking to relocate.

Because the city has grown at a rapid pace, there may be competition for Carmel apartments for rent in the most desirable areas of the community.

The area that would become Carmel was originally inhabited by the Delaware Native American tribe. When settlers came to the area in 1837 and planned a small community, they initially called it Bethlehem. The town's name was changed to Carmel when it was officially incorporated in 1874.

Like many small towns in the late 1800s, Carmel benefitted from railroad construction that brought trains right through the town. The population grew steadily, and Carmel was able to provide its residents with modern amenities throughout the first half of the 1900s. Electricity, traffic signals, a water system and a gas pipeline all helped to make life easier for the expanding community.

In 1900, the city was home to less than 500 people. Since then, Carmel has grown into a city of more than 81,000 residents. While it cherishes its historic past, it has become a modern city that provides residents with a high quality of life.

Ivy Tech Community College has a campus conveniently located in Carmel. This two-year college allows students to study a range of topics and determine what academic studies best suit their skills and interests. Because Indianapolis is just a short drive away, students may also choose to commute to school. The University of Indianapolis offers students the opportunity to obtain an undergraduate degree, or enroll in a graduate or doctoral program. Another option in Indianapolis is Butler University, a four-year institution that has a history of academic excellence dating back to 1855.

Even though many residents are employed in Carmel or run small businesses in town, a large portion of Carmel citizens commute to work in nearby Indianapolis. Top employers within the city include Clarian Health Partners, Eli Lilly and Company, St. Vincent Hospitals and Health Services, Indiana University, Purdue University and Community Health Network.

Residents will find that apartments in Carmel typically range from about $800 to $1,250 per month. The U.S. Census Bureau reported that the median gross monthly rent in the city is $950.

Even though some may find the rents in Carmel a bit steep, the city makes up for this in other areas. CNN Money gave Carmel the top spot on its Best Places to Live list in 2012. CNBC named it one of the Best Cities to Relocate in America because of its low overall cost of living and revived downtown area.

Arts lovers will find the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel to be the ideal place to spend an evening. This community gathering place allows residents to experience and enjoy the arts together. Local theater groups, dance troupes and musicians all perform at the center, which prides itself on its strong acoustics and ability to attract some of the most talented performers in the world.

Those interested in history will enjoy time spent at the Carmel Clay Historical Society. The organization educates the public on the history of the area and archives important documents pertaining to Carmel's past. It hosts events and tours in addition to exhibiting informative material documenting the city's long history.

Cyclists will find that Carmel is an extremely bike-friendly city, and an extensive trail system allows residents to get nearly anywhere on two wheels. Those who like to get outdoors and enjoy themselves without bicycles can easily do so because the city features multiple parks and outdoor spaces for everyone to enjoy. Visitors who spend a day at Central Park will find there's a lot to do there. A skate park, fishing waters, a picnic area and trails provide residents with ample outdoor options.

To find your next rental apartment or house in Carmel, take a look at our listings on Rent.com®.