Life in Zionsville - Indiana Home Scout

Living in Zionsville

Zionsville’s roots are in the railroad. Starting from a mid-19 th century railroad stop, the
town slowly developed into a residential suburb. The Lafayette and Indianapolis
Railroad was to grow into a vital hub for agricultural trading. This blend has resulted in
Zionsville’s trademark of historic ambiance coupled with modern commercial projects.

Today’s version of Zionsville features a population of around 31,000 and residential
neighborhoods designed to avoid the hustle and bustle while providing easy access to
Historic Main Street and a variety of parks and trails.

Families have found Zionsville to be focused on youth sports, festivals and school
related events that drawn huge local crowds. Safety is always an important issue and
this town ranks among the safest municipalities in the state.

The educational system falls into top tier rankings and falls under the Zionsville
Community Schools system. The result is high graduation rates and excellent
placements in further education entities across the state and the country.

When you add in the proximity to Indianapolis, which is a 20 to 30-minute commute,
Zionsville is truly the best of both worlds!

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At a Glance

Types of Homes

There’s plenty of variety when it comes to homes and architectural styles in Zionsville. Located just 15 miles north of Indianapolis, the area has become known for everything from Craftsman bungalows circa historic 19th-century to vast luxury estates that can be listed for millions of dollars. Contemporary ranch homes and single-level communities are also prominent and are excellent for young families.

Several other new subdivisions are in the planning stages, while suburban ranchers boast modern builds boasting open concept floorplans with contemporary finishes. If you’re looking for smaller spaces, there are townhomes and condos and also paired patio homes.

Holiday Farms and The Willows border the golf course and are marked with sprawling, modern homes that boast multiple rooms, bathrooms, and beautiful scenery. These multi-million dollar estates represent the top end of the local real estate market.

Price Range and Market Trends

Pricing for homes and condos in Zionsville start in the high $200,00s and can top out at over $4 million. Of course, there are plenty of homes that fall squarely in that market, with median homes ranking in the mid $600,000s.

The market for homes in Zionsville is highly competitive, as it’s a sought after location in the area. Homes on the housing market usually receive two offers on an average basis, and sell in less than 30 days.

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Picture of brick road in the Zionsville Village

Outdoors

Green Spaces

Zionsville is perfectly positioned for residents who want to experience the sights, sounds, and tranquility of nature. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing walk on one of the many paved trails or getting in your daily running or biking, there’s plenty of room.

Besides trails and parks, Zionsville also offers multiple golf courses for beginners and professionals alike. You can tune up your skills at the Range of Zionsville before hitting courses like Holliday Farms, Zionsville Golf Course, Hickory Bend Golf Course, Golf Club of Indiana, and Crooked Stick Golf Club.

Zionsville is also known for its area orchards and farms, which provide fresh food, arts and crafts, and apple picking during the fall. A few of the places you and your family can choose from include Stuckey Farm, Trader’s Point Creamery, Driving Wind Blueberry Farm and Wonder Tree Farm.

Walkability & Transportation

The main attraction in Zionsville is Main Street, which is located at the center of Zionsville. Paved with quaint and the original bricks laid down in the 1800s, it’s easy to walk from store to store, and enjoy lunch and dinner at one of the many bistros and restaurants.

Getting to other points in Zionsville requires a car, but thanks to the town’s intuitive layout, you won’t be spending much time in the driver’s seat. If you want to leave your vehicle at home, biking is another alternative.

Primary options for direct public transit include the Boone Area Transit System (BATS) and the IndyGo bus system. These two modes of transportation connect the Indianapolis area to Zionsville and are located south of town.

The BATS system is managed by Boone County Senior Services and is available to all local residents. Trips have to be scheduled in advance, and general public fares are $4 per stop.

The IndyGo system, line 34/37 can be accessed south of Zionsville and the buses stop near the 86th Street and Zionsville Road area, with a fare charge of $2.

You can also use ride share services to move around town.

Walking Paths & Trails

Major Trail Corridors include:

Big-4 Rail Trail

Named for the company that used to operate it, the trail was originally a railway used from 1852 to 1962, and was then transformed into a walkable pathway that winds it way throughout the local area.

This trail forms the central spine of Zionsville’s network of over 20 miles of interconnected and paved pathways. Spreading diagonally across Boone County, the trail is split in three and is largely paved with a general surface in most areas.

Walking is just one way to experience the Big 4, it’s also perfect for biking and in some areas, there are paths for equestrians. Plus, the trail is centrally located to a variety of shops, restaurants, and historical spots – making it a great way to spend a day, without ever having to get in your car.

Starkey Nature Park

Connected to the Big-4 Rail Trail and located no more than a quarter mile southwest of the Village, this is the second largest park in Zionsville. A wooded bottomland borders Eagle Creek with hiking trails and nature study.

In addition to walking and running, visitors to this park can enjoy fishing, bird watching, and even bring a picnic lunch to enjoy in the great outdoors.

Carpenter Nature Preserve

Spanning more than 215 acres, this preserve has completed its first building phase and features both paved trails and rustic trails. Visitors can enjoy overlooks of Eagle Creek and outdoor classrooms make learning about nature interesting and fun. Multiple venues dedicated to prairie development, reforestation, and wetland conversion are excellent places to visit.

Elm Street Green

This 15.5 acre park is designed for visitors to enjoy the surroundings, including an adventure place space, trails, garden plots for rent and for the more adventurous, a kayak and canoe launch for enjoying nearby Eagle Creek.

A natural habitat for butterflies, birds, and other wildlife thanks to cultivated prairie meadows is another feature of Elm Street Green.

Park Amenities

Four secured picnic tables
Electrical outlet
Overhead lighting
One grill
No on-site public restrooms (the nearest public restroom is located at Lions Park) outside of June – October.
Close access to nature play ground
Click here for more information on Elm Street Green.

For a complete listing of the many trails and parks located in Zionsville, click here.

Picture of shops in downtown Zionsville, Indiana

Culture

Amenities, Shopping & Culture

For a relatively small town, Zionsville had plenty to do when it concerns shopping, culture and fun things to do during the day or night.

The historic, brick-paved Main Street is centered around “The Village.” High walkable and featuring more than 175 locally owned boutiques, cafes, and galleries, it’s the perfect place for curious shoppers and casual visitors who want to soak up the atmosphere.

“Boutique” is the watchword in The Village, with small shops that offer everything from activewear to bridal gowns and everything in between. As you wander from shop to shop, you’ll encounter not only popular name brands, but hand-crafted clothes and accessories that compliment any outfit.

A list of boutiques includes:

Boutique 33, 33 E. Pine St.
Brick Street Bridal, 40 N. Main St.
Duo Boutique, 150 S. Main St.
Frances+Parke, 98 S. Main St.
Green Apple Boutique, 20 N. Main St.

Of course, there is a wide selection of places to eat and drink – from coffee and sweets to tavern dining. If you’re looking for more of an upscale experience, you can choose from Holliday Farms and Bowdie’s Chophouse.

The Village has everything anyone could want, and it’s all located in a quaint and cozy area that harkens back to yesteryear. Books, jewelry, antiques, vintage and art galleries compliment the shops and restaurants.

Community Events

Zionsville boasts an almost full year of community events, marking seasons and holidays. Known for the Puzzle Swap, the town also hosts a Party in the Park, Fright Nights, and a Winterfest that brings the holiday feeling to new levels.

The events occur around the town and into the neighboring parks and green spots, making the most of the natural beauty that comprises Zionsville.

You can view a complete listing of community events here.

Schools & Education

The public education system in Zionsville is housed under the Zionsville Community Schools banner and serves students in the Eagle and Union townships located within Boone County, Indiana. Cited as one of the best public school systems in Indiana, the system is designed to help children progress from elementary school to high school.

In addition to an outstanding reputation for academics, sports, and after school activities, the school system has created and grown its Strong in Every Way initiative. This program works to nurture student growth and development. “Everyone Belongs Here” is a student inspired program that shows their vision for the culture of the district.

Schools in this system include:

High School

Zionsville Community High School

Middle Schools

Zionsville Middle School
Zionsville West Middle School

Elementary Schools

Boone Meadow Elementary School
Eagle Elementary School
Pleasant View Elementary School
Stonegate Elementary School
Trailside Elementary School
Union Elementary School

The Zionsville area also offers several private school choices, both religious and non-denominational, that are located close to the center of town. Additionally, there are other private schools that are located within the Indianapolis area that are within commuting distance from Zionsville.

Buying in Zionsville

The real estate market in Zionsville moves quickly, with the median average for houses resting between $500-$800K. Planning ahead is a wise choice, as listings can attract multiple offers in a relatively short amount of time.

Areas like Holliday Farms, which is located on a luxury golf course and includes multiple amenities, are available at higher prices, usually ranging into the seven figure area. The Willows’ trademark wooded lots and custom homes have strong resale value, and families have found that Cobblestone Lakes has walkable paths, beautiful homes, and a strong sense of community. There’s also Royal Run that offers excellent per square foot value and is budget friendly.