Plainfield, IN vs. Fishers, IN: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to Plainfield or Fishers, Indiana? Here’s a rapid-fire cost of living comparison for 2025:
- 🏠 Median home price: Plainfield $325K vs Fishers $450K
- ⚡ Average utility bill: Plainfield $180/mo vs Fishers $210/mo
- 🥑 Typical grocery costs: Plainfield $350/mo vs Fishers $400/mo
- 🏙️ Property taxes: Plainfield 0.85% vs Fishers 1.1%
This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Plainfield and Fishers. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life costs of these two Indianapolis suburbs in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Plainfield and Fishers stack up:
| Housing Type | Plainfield | Fishers |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $325,000 | $450,000 |
| Typical Mortgage Payment | $1,400/mo | $1,950/mo |
| Average 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,100/mo | $1,350/mo |
🏆 Winner: Plainfield. Housing costs are around 25-30% lower in Plainfield compared to Fishers.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities, but Plainfield has a slight edge:
- Plainfield: $180/mo average
- Fishers: $210/mo average
Both cities experience cold winters and hot summers, so expect higher heating and cooling bills in those peak months. Plainfield’s town utility offers an off-peak discount program that can help lower costs.
🏆 Winner: Plainfield, but only by about $30/month on average.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs are comparable in Plainfield and Fishers, with Plainfield coming in about 10% cheaper overall. Monthly grocery bills in Plainfield average around $350 for a typical family, while in Fishers it’s closer to $400.
Restaurant prices and everyday goods are also slightly lower in Plainfield. A meal out might cost $35 in Plainfield vs $45 in Fishers.
🏆 Winner: Plainfield, with savings of $50-100/month on food and daily expenses.
4. Taxes and Fees
Plainfield boasts a lower property tax rate of 0.85% compared to Fishers’ 1.1%. For a $350K home, that’s a difference of $875 per year.
Both cities have similar income tax rates around 1.5%. Fishers has slightly higher utility fees and stormwater charges.
🏆 Winner: Plainfield. Lower property taxes can add up to substantial savings over time.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Plainfield | Fishers |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,400/mo | $1,950/mo |
| Utilities | $180/mo | $210/mo |
| Groceries | $350/mo | $400/mo |
| Transportation | $250/mo | $275/mo |
| Taxes | $240/mo | $310/mo |
| Misc | $200/mo | $250/mo |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,620 | $3,395 |
Overall, living costs are around 20-25% lower in Plainfield compared to Fishers. A household moving from Fishers to Plainfield might save $400-500/month on housing and taxes alone.
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Plainfield offers lower living costs, Fishers has some lifestyle advantages:
- Fishers is closer to Indianapolis, meaning shorter commutes for some
- Fishers has a vibrant downtown with more dining and shopping options
- Fishers is known for excellent schools and youth sports programs
However, Plainfield boasts more affordable homes with larger yards, a quieter pace of life, and easy access to outdoor recreation. Plainfield averages 5°F cooler than Fishers in July.
7. FAQ
Q: Is Plainfield more affordable than Fishers?
A: Yes, Plainfield is around 20-25% cheaper than Fishers overall.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Plainfield. A typical 2BR apartment rents for $1,100/month in Plainfield vs $1,350 in Fishers.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Plainfield, with a median home price of $325K compared to $450K in Fishers.
8. Conclusion
For those prioritizing affordability, Plainfield offers significant cost of living advantages over Fishers, especially in housing. However, Fishers’ higher costs come with perks like top schools, a thriving downtown, and shorter commutes to Indy.
Young professionals may prefer Fishers, while families seeking space on a budget often choose Plainfield. Retirees can find a peaceful, affordable lifestyle in Plainfield as well.
Considering other Indiana cities? Check out our cost of living comparisons for top towns in Indiana. And if a move is in your future, see our 2025 moving company picks to get the best rates.