Carlton-Ludingwood, Muncie,IN

For those considering a move to Muncie, IN, the Carlton-Ludingwood neighborhood in the southeast part of the city offers a charming blend of suburban comfort and community spirit. This area is known for its quiet streets lined with mature trees, making it an inviting place for families and individuals alike. The neighborhood exudes a friendly, welcoming vibe where neighbors often know each other by name, creating a strong sense of belonging. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a place where community events bring everyone together, Carlton-Ludingwood has something special to offer.

One of the standout features of Carlton-Ludingwood is the nearby Muncie Mall, a convenient shopping destination that provides everything from retail stores to dining options, making day-to-day errands a breeze. Residents also appreciate the proximity to several parks such as Wysor Heights Park, perfect for outdoor activities like jogging, picnics, and family outings. For those who enjoy local culture, the neighborhood isn’t far from attractions like the Minnetrista cultural center, where you can explore art exhibits and beautiful gardens. This blend of amenities ensures that there’s always something enjoyable to do without having to travel far.

When it comes to accessibility, Carlton-Ludingwood is just a short drive away from Downtown Muncie, typically around 10 to 15 minutes depending on traffic. This makes commuting to work or enjoying the vibrant downtown scene—filled with restaurants, theaters, and shops—quite manageable. The neighborhood strikes a great balance between offering a quieter living environment and keeping you connected to the heart of the city. For anyone relocating to Muncie, Carlton-Ludingwood is definitely worth exploring as a desirable and convenient place to call home.

About 31% of the Carlton-Ludingwood population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 21% 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.

Carlton-Ludingwood demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 1,139 residents, Carlton-Ludingwood is notably smaller than many other Muncie neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Carlton-Ludingwood has a population density of 2,848, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Muncie neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

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.

The Carlton-Ludingwood 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 trends offer valuable insight into the accessibility and character of a neighborhood. In Carlton-Ludingwood, the median home price is $102,867, which is less than many surrounding areas. This affordability makes it an attractive option for first-time buyers, young families, or anyone looking to enter the housing market without a significant financial barrier. Looking at appreciation rates and past market trends in Carlton-Ludingwood can offer valuable insight into the neighborhood’s investment potential. Understanding how home values have changed over time helps buyers gauge future growth, assess long-term stability, and make more informed real estate decisions.

The median rent is around $812, 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.

School ratings in Carlton-Ludingwood 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 Carlton-Ludingwood 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.