Indiana: The Crossroads of America

Known affectionately as The Hoosier State, Indiana serves as a vital link within the United States. With its motto, "Crossroads of America," the state reflects its central role in the nation's geography, economy, and transportation networks. From its rich indigenous roots to its bustling metropolitan centers, Indiana offers a diverse landscape of history, industry, and culture.

: Angel Mounds State Historic Site was one of the northernmost Mississippian culture settlements, occupied from 1100 to 1450.

Key Facts

• Capital: Indianapolis
• Statehood: Admitted to the Union on December 11, 1816 (the 19th state)
• Nickname: The Hoosier State
• Motto: Crossroads of America
• Population: Approximately 6,973,333 (2025 estimate)
• Major Industries: Agriculture (notably corn), manufacturing, and energy

Geography and Climate

Indiana covers a total area of approximately 36,418 square miles, with about 35,868 square miles consisting of land and 550 square miles of water. The state's terrain varies, featuring rolling hills in areas like the Charles C. Deam Wilderness Area within the Hoosier National Forest.

: Rolling hills in the Charles C. Deam Wilderness Area of Hoosier National Forest, in the Indiana Uplands

The state's hydrology is defined by significant waterways, including the Wabash River, which is the state river. The confluence of the Wabash and Ohio Rivers marks the state's lowest elevation at 318 feet.

: The Wabash River converges with the Ohio River at Posey County. The southernmost point in Indiana is located at Uniontown Bend 4.6 miles upstream of the confluence, south of Hovey Lake (near the center of the photograph)

Climate patterns in Indiana are characterized by seasonal variations. Average annual precipitation is approximately 41.49 inches. Major cities experience varying temperature ranges, with Indianapolis seeing average July highs around 85°F and January lows near 29°F.

: Köppen climate types of Indiana, using 1991–2020 climate normals

Demographics and Society

As of 2025, Indiana's population is estimated at nearly 7 million people, ranking it 17th in the United States. The state is home to a diverse array of ethnic backgrounds. According to recent census data, the population includes significant White (non-Hispanic), African American (non-Hispanic), and Hispanic or Latino communities.

: Indiana population pyramid

: Ethnic origins in Indiana

: Largest alone or in any combination ethnic origin by county in Indiana, per the 2020 census[131]

: Population density in Indiana as of the 2020 U.S. census

: Map of counties in Indiana by racial plurality, per the 2020 U.S. census Non-Hispanic White 50–60% 60–70% 70–80% 80–90% 90%+

Cultural diversity is further evidenced by the presence of specific communities, such as the Amish, of which Indiana is home to the third largest population in the U.S.

: Indiana is home to the third largest population of Amish in the U.S.[167]

Economy and Infrastructure

Indiana's economy is a blend of traditional agriculture and modern industry. The state is a major agricultural player, ranking as the fifth largest corn-producing state in the U.S., with over a billion bushels harvested in 2013 alone.

: Indiana is the fifth largest corn-producing state in the U.S., with over a billion bushels harvested in 2013.[213]

Energy production has historically relied heavily on coal-fired electric plants. In 2014, these plants produced approximately 85 percent of the state's energy supply.

: Coal-fired electric plants, like Clifty Creek Power Plant in Madison, produced about 85 percent of Indiana's energy supply in 2014.[232]

Transportation is a cornerstone of the state's infrastructure. This includes extensive highway systems, rail networks, and maritime ports. The Ports of Indiana manage three maritime ports, two of which are located on the Ohio River, facilitating the movement of goods via barges.

: The Interstate 69 extension project in Monroe County

: A South Shore commuter train in Michigan City

: Barges are a common sight along the Ohio River. Ports of Indiana manages three maritime ports in the state, two located on the Ohio.

Sports and Culture

Sports play a massive role in Indiana's identity. The state is famous for motorsports, specifically the Indianapolis 500 held at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Professional sports fans follow the Indianapolis Colts (NFL) and the Indiana Pacers (NBA).

: Indianapolis is home to the annual Indianapolis 500 race.

: The Indianapolis Colts of the National Football League have been based in the state since 1984.

College athletics also command significant attention, with major programs at institutions such as Notre Dame, Purdue University, and Indiana University. These schools host large-scale events in stadiums like Notre Dame Stadium and Ross-Ade Stadium.

: Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall, home to Indiana Hoosiers men's basketball

: Notre Dame Stadium, home to the Fighting Irish

: Ross-Ade Stadium, home of the Purdue Boilermakers, before the 2023 renovations

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State Summary

Quick Reference: Indiana State Profile

Category	Details
Capital City	Indianapolis
Statehood Date	December 11, 1816
Total Area	36,418 sq mi
Largest City	Indianapolis
State Bird	Northern cardinal
State Flower	Peony

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the capital of Indiana?

The capital and largest city of Indiana is Indianapolis.

When did Indiana become a state?

Indiana was admitted to the Union on December 11, 1816, as the 19th state.

What are the major professional sports teams in Indiana?

Major professional teams include the Indianapolis Colts (NFL), the Indiana Pacers (NBA), and the Indiana Fever (WNBA).

What is the state's primary agricultural product?

Indiana is a significant producer of corn, ranking as the fifth largest corn-producing state in the U.S.

What is the highest point in Indiana?

The highest elevation in the state is found at Hoosier Hill, reaching 1,257 feet.