Moving from California to Indiana. Why would you do that?
California has a growing economy, tourism, entertainment, sunshine, and a long coastline. Los Angeles is a dream come true for many people, but is everything really that perfect? Are there hidden defects?
Los Angeles is the largest city, state capital, and center of the largest metropolitan area in California. L.A. is the second-largest city in the US with a population of a bit over 4 million. Its area ranks second with a population of 13 million and it includes some wonderful places such as Beverly Hills and Long Beach.
With a GDP of over 1 trillion, Los Angeles ranks third in the world, second only to Tokyo and New York, and far surpasses most countries in the world. L.A. is a heaven when it comes to spending quality free time! Parks, beaches, sports teams, and entertainment venues provide unique opportunities to both locals and tourists!
The great outdoors in California are in fact great!
One of the most famous outdoor spaces is Yosemite National Park. Then we have one of the hottest and driest places, the Death Valley, and then one of the “tallest” that is the Redwood parks that protect some of the tallest trees on Earth, as well as prairies. Muir Woods is the closest to San Francisco, and the rest of the tall trees are further north. So, if you are in the southern parts of California you will have to go north.
Los Angeles takes pride in a fine plethora of parks, enhanced by their view of the Pacific Ocean. If you’re a keen outdoor and outgoing person, you’d certainly love Palisades Park and Tongva Park. They provide fine options for activities at just a stone throw away from the beach!
Taking into account the fine weather, the great outdoor spaces, and close proximity to the beach, one might understand why the people of L.A. love to spend time outside. There are a few popular biking trails, whether located in the heart of the city or near the beach. Be sure to visit Marvin Braude/Pacific Coast Bike Path, Griffith Park, Elysian Park, and Mount Wilson. They also provide excellent jogging conditions by either their scenic views or their close proximity to the heart of L.A. The parks are also full of baseball fields and basketball courts.
Are there shortcomings in California?
Yes, there certainly are shortcomings and problems in the state of California. Some have been obvious for a while, while others are just taking the center stage.
Traffic and parking problems are common in all big cities, but Los Angeles and San Francisco are some of the worst. Earthquakes can be common and unexpected throughout the state. The crime rate is high and has been getting worse in the last few years. The neighborhoods of Los Angeles are spread far away and public transport is almost non existent in suburbs. Then we all know about the high cost of living in general, and the rising house prices. Last, but but not least we have the labor market swelling, which leads to people showing some attitudes because of fierce competition.
Are you read for peace and affordability?
Indiana is a mid-sized Midwestern state, known for its industry, culture, and sports teams. Indiana borders Michigan to the north, Ohio to the east, Illinois to the west, and is partially separated by the Wabash River.
The capital and largest city is Indianapolis, with a population of less than 900.000. Together with Carmel, Fishers, and Anderson, it forms the Greater Indianapolis Metropolitan Area. Together they have more than 2 million residents.
Economy and education in Indiana
Indiana’s GDP is close to 400 billion U.S. dollars. Indianapolis contributed approximately $140. Traditional industries include finance, insurance, real estate, leasing, and leasing. Together with Fortune 500 companies Anthem, Eli Lilly and Company, and Simon Property Group, they form the backbone of the local economy and make Indiana (and Indianapolis) a place of concern.
Indiana University-Purdue is the state’s top educational institution. It offers more than 200 courses, among which the most prestigious courses are medicine, dentistry, and law. It currently has nearly 30.000 students.
The Crossroads of America
The major U.S. Interstate highways in Indiana are I-64, I-65, I-265, I-465, I-865, I-69, I-469, I-70, I-74, I-80, I-90, I-94, and I-275. The various highways intersecting in and around Indianapolis, along with its historical status as a major railroad hub, and the canals that once crossed Indiana, are the source of the state’s motto, the Crossroads of America.
Healthcare system in the state
Several high-profile hospitals in Indiana include Eskenazi Health, St. Vincent Indianapolis – Hospital & Health Care Center, and IU Health University Hospital.
Free time activities
Indianapolis is a culturally rich city, most prominent in the visual, performing arts, and literature. Massachusetts Avenue is home to a large number of theaters, shops, and restaurants.
Don’t miss the Indianapolis Arts Center, Indiana Theater, Old National Center, and Indianapolis Children’s Museum.
Indiana is very proud of its elite sports team. Indiana has more NBA players per capita than any other state. The most famous team in the state are the Indiana Pacers. But the Indianapolis Colts of the National Football League can rival them in popularity.
Motorsports are a thing, too. After all, we are in the Midwest! INDYCAR and United States Auto Club are both based in Indianapolis, and the state is the home of the Indianapolis 500, too!
There are a few cons of living in this calm, yet lively place.
– Crime is rather high in some places.
– Wages are lower than some neighboring states, but improving.
– The state is very, very conservative, which may be unpleasant for some people.
– The winters could be colder than the rest of the country.
Los Angeles vs. Indianapolis
Los Angeles has the great climate and beaches, as well as large labor market and movie industry, however, Indianapolis is cheaper and affordable. A lot cheaper. Indianapolis is 51.8% less expensive than Los Angeles. Indianapolis housing is 79.2% less expensive than Los Angeles. Health-related expenses are 2.9% less in Indianapolis. Add to this the far better commute time and the lower average age, and the winner is crystal clear.