Quick answer
Overall prices in the Washington, DC metro were 108.9 vs 95.7 in Indianapolis, IN in 2024 (US = 100), so Washington is 13.8% more expensive than Indianapolis; housing rents differ by 70% (151.1 vs 88.9). A $75,000 income in Washington buys about what $65,916 buys in Indianapolis, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Washington | Indianapolis | Washington vs Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 108.9 | 95.7 | +13.8% |
| Goods | 104.8 | 94.3 | +11.2% |
| Housing (rents) | 151.1 | 88.9 | +70.0% |
| Utilities | 106.7 | 86.4 | +23.6% |
| Other services | 102.3 | 99.1 | +3.2% |
| All items, 2008 | 114.8 | 96.7 | +18.6% |
| $50,000 in Washington equals in Indianapolis | $43,944 | ||
| $100,000 in Washington equals in Indianapolis | $87,888 | ||
| $150,000 in Washington equals in Indianapolis | $131,832 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.