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Southern Dunes, Indianapolis,IN

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If you’re considering a move to southeast Indianapolis, Southern Dunes is a neighborhood that truly stands out for its blend of community charm and convenient amenities. Known for its beautifully maintained homes and friendly atmosphere, Southern Dunes offers residents a welcoming environment that feels both safe and vibrant. One of the neighborhood’s highlights is its proximity to the Southern Dunes Golf Club, a favorite local spot where golf enthusiasts can enjoy well-manicured courses and a relaxing clubhouse. This golf course not only provides a great recreational outlet but also adds to the scenic beauty that surrounds the area, making Southern Dunes a peaceful retreat within the bustle of the city.

For families and professionals alike, Southern Dunes delivers more than just beautiful homes and green spaces. The neighborhood is conveniently close to several shopping centers, dining options, and parks, ensuring that residents have everything they need within easy reach. Nearby, you’ll find schools with good reputations, which is a big plus for those relocating with children. Additionally, the community often hosts local events and gatherings, fostering a strong sense of belonging among neighbors. Whether you enjoy outdoor activities, a vibrant social scene, or simply a quiet suburban lifestyle, Southern Dunes has something to offer.

When it comes to commuting, Southern Dunes is impressively accessible, being roughly 15 to 20 minutes away from Downtown Indianapolis. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone who works in the city but prefers to live in a more residential, laid-back area. The drive to downtown is straightforward, with major roads nearby that make getting around hassle-free. Plus, the neighborhood’s location in the southeast part of the city means you’re close to various attractions like the Indianapolis Zoo, the Children’s Museum, and several sports venues. All in all, Southern Dunes provides a perfect balance of suburban comfort and city convenience, making it a smart choice for your next home.

Community Snapshot

Population 6,704
Density (People/sqml.) 904
Median Age 35.6
Married Couples
53%
53% of the population of Southern Dunes aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
25%
25% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

In Southern Dunes, 25% of residents aged 16 and older are married, which is notably higher than the national average. This could point to a more settled, community-driven neighborhood where long-term residents and homeowners are common. It’s the kind of place where stability, and a close-knit atmosphere make it especially appealing to families and couples looking to put down roots.

With only 25% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Age Breakdown

Southern Dunes neighborhood age breakdown chart

Southern Dunes demographic details provide a clearer picture of what life is like in the neighborhood, offering insight into its character, community, and overall lifestyle. With a population of 6,704, the number of residents who reside in Southern Dunes is about average in size compared to other Indianapolis neighborhoods, striking a perfect balance between energy and tranquility. It’s large enough to offer plenty of amenities, activities, and a vibrant local scene, yet small enough to maintain a welcoming community feel and a more relaxed pace of life.

With a lower than average population density of 904 people per square mile, Southern Dunes offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Indianapolis neighborhoods. This often means quieter streets, less congestion, and a relaxed atmosphere — all while still providing access to the amenities and conveniences of city living.

With an average age of 36, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

Crime in Southern Dunes

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Types of Crime

Southern Dunes neighborhood age breakdown chart

Southern Dunes Crime Map

The Southern Dunes crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing

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Home Price $215,933
Median Rent $1,245
People/Household 2.7

Home Price Breakdown

Southern Dunes neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 34% Own 66%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 53% After 2010 47%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

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Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Southern Dunes, the median home price is about $215,933, which is on par with many comparable areas. This average pricing reflects a stable, affordable housing market and makes the neighborhood an appealing choice for a wide range of buyers seeking both value and long-term potential. Examining how home prices and appreciation rates in Southern Dunes have shifted over time can reveal important clues about the neighborhood’s future value. These trends help potential buyers and investors understand market momentum and determine whether the area is likely to deliver strong returns over the long term.

The median rent is around $1,245, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

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Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Southport High School
971 E Banta Rd, Indianapolis, IN
High School 9 - 12 School Score
St Barnabas School
8300 Rahke Rd, Indianapolis, IN
Elementary School PK - 8 School Score
Center Grove Middle School North
202 N Morgantown Rd, Greenwood, IN
Elementary School 6 - 8 School Score
Gold Academy
5650 Mann Rd, Indianapolis, IN
Elementary School 1 - 6 School Score
Blue Academy
5650 Mann Rd, Indianapolis, IN
Elementary School 1 - 6 School Score
Perry Meridian High School
401 W Meridian School Rd, Indianapolis, IN
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Rise Learning Center
5391 Shelby St, Indianapolis, IN
High School KG - 12 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School ratings in Southern Dunes combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Southern Dunes can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.

Economy

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Income Per Capita $34,062
Household Income $75,859
Unemployment 2.6%

Income Breakdown

Southern Dunes Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

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Local economic factors help define the character and opportunities within a neighborhood, shaping everything from lifestyle to overall accessibility. Household incomes in Southern Dunes average around $75,859, which is about on par with many surrounding neighborhoods. This balanced income level supports a diverse community and offers a stable, well-rounded environment for residents.

The strength of a neighborhood’s local economy is often reflected in its employment landscape, shaping daily life and long-term stability for residents. In Southern Dunes, the unemployment rate is just 3%, indicating a strong and resilient community with steady economic growth, active local businesses, and a high quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of homes are common?

Southern Dunes in Indianapolis features a mix of single-family homes primarily built in the late 20th century. Many residences showcase traditional suburban styles with spacious yards, often including ranch and two-story houses. The neighborhood is known for well-maintained properties, with some newer builds and custom homes scattered throughout, catering to families looking for a quiet, established community.

How far is Downtown?

Southern Dunes is conveniently located about 10 miles southeast of Downtown Indianapolis. By car, the drive typically takes around 20-25 minutes depending on traffic. This proximity allows residents easy access to the city's major attractions such as the Indianapolis Museum of Art, Monument Circle, and the Lucas Oil Stadium while enjoying a more suburban lifestyle away from the urban core.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Yes, Southern Dunes benefits from close access to Interstate 465, Indianapolis's outer beltway, providing efficient connectivity to other parts of the city and surrounding areas. Additionally, U.S. Route 31 is nearby, facilitating north-south travel. While public transit options are more limited, IndyGo bus routes serve the general area, making commuting feasible for those without cars.

Compare Nearby Neighborhoods

Location Overall Amenities Health Transit Schools Housing Economy Crime
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