Explore Bloomington
Get to know Bloomington from someone who’s always called it home.
Bloomington is a college town, a county seat, and the edge of southern Indiana’s hill country all at once. Here’s how it fits together, and where to start if you’re thinking about living in Bloomington, Indiana.
Downtown centers on the courthouse square, with Indiana University’s campus just to the east. Neighborhoods spread out in every direction from there, and the county turns rural quickly beyond them.
Bloomington’s neighborhoods at a glance
| Area | What you’ll find |
|---|---|
| North | Established neighborhoods like Blue Ridge, Fritz Terrace, and Marlin Hills, wooded lots, and quick access to Griffy Lake and Morgan-Monroe State Forest |
| East | Established neighborhoods, newer developments including Renwick, and the College Mall shopping area |
| South | Winslow, Sherwood Oaks, and Clear Creek, with access to Switchyard Park and the B-Line Trail |
| Downtown and IU | Condos, older houses, and small multi-unit buildings within walking distance of campus and the square |
| Near West, Prospect Hill, Maple Heights, and McDoel Gardens | Historic homes on close-in streets near downtown |
| Elm Heights and Bryan Park | Historic homes between campus and downtown’s south side |
| West | Highland Village, Van Buren, Fieldstone, and Broadview, where town gives way to rural Monroe County |
| Ellettsville and rural Monroe County | A small town to the northwest, plus acreage and country homes around the county |
Living in Bloomington, Indiana: where to start
Moving to Bloomington
How the city is laid out, when to start your search, the area’s largest employers, getting around, and utilities.
Bloomington neighborhoods
How Bloomington’s areas fit together, from the north side to Ellettsville, and the types of homes you’ll find in each.
North Bloomington
The part of town I’ve always called home: established neighborhoods, wooded lots, Griffy Lake, and Morgan-Monroe State Forest.
Curious about a part of town?
Ask me about a neighborhood. If I don’t know the answer, I’ll find it.