Noblesville, IN vs. Fishers, IN: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Imagine two families, the Millers and the Davises, both considering a move to the Indianapolis suburbs. The Millers, eyeing a 2-bedroom apartment in Noblesville, find options around $1,100 per month. Meanwhile, the Davises discover similar rentals in Fishers averaging $1,300.
At the supermarket, the Millers spend about $500 monthly on groceries for their household of three. The Davises, a family of four, budget closer to $650 in Fishers. This snapshot illustrates just a few of the cost differences between these neighboring cities.
In this article, we provide a comprehensive cost of living comparison between Noblesville and Fishers. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone weighing the real-life expenses of calling Noblesville or Fishers home in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest line item in a monthly budget. Here’s how typical costs compare:
| Housing Type | Noblesville | Fishers |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Monthly Rent) | $1,100 | $1,300 |
| 3BR House (Median Price) | $325,000 | $375,000 |
🏆 Winner: Noblesville. You’ll generally pay less for comparable housing, whether renting or buying.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are a monthly must. In Noblesville, expect to pay around $180 for a typical household’s electricity, gas, water, and garbage. Fishers runs slightly higher at about $200 monthly.
Both cities experience chilly winters and warm summers, so budget for seasonally higher heating and cooling bills. Opting into off-peak programs can help control costs.
🏆 Winner: Noblesville, but the difference is modest.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Feeding a family in Noblesville typically runs $500-$700 per month, depending on household size. In Fishers, plan for $550-$750. Restaurant prices are comparable, but everyday items like gas and childcare may cost 5% more in Fishers.
🏆 Winner: Noblesville, especially for larger households.
4. Taxes and Fees
Indiana’s statewide flat income tax rate is 3.23% as of 2025. However, property taxes and city fees vary:
- Noblesville’s property tax rate is 0.85%, with average annual HOA fees around $200.
- Fishers has a 0.95% property tax rate and $250 typical HOA dues.
🏆 Winner: Noblesville. Lower property taxes can add up, especially on higher-value homes.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Noblesville | Fishers |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR Mortgage*) | $1,450 | $1,675 |
| Utilities | $180 | $200 |
| Groceries | $600 | $650 |
| Transportation | $350 | $375 |
| Taxes (Property + Income**) | $675 | $780 |
| Miscellaneous | $400 | $450 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,655 | $4,130 |
*Based on median 3BR price with 20% down, 30-year fixed mortgage at 4% APR.
**Based on $85,000 annual household income.
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Noblesville is generally cheaper, Fishers offers perks that may be worth the premium for some households:
- Fishers has more extensive public transportation, which can lower car ownership costs.
- Noblesville’s historic downtown offers a quaint, walkable lifestyle.
- Fishers averages 5 minutes shorter commute times to major employers like Salesforce and IU Health.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Noblesville more affordable than Fishers?
A: Yes, Noblesville is typically 10-15% cheaper across major cost of living categories like housing, food, and utilities.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Noblesville’s rental prices average about $200 less per month than comparable properties in Fishers.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: With lower median prices and property tax rates, Noblesville is the more affordable option for homebuyers.
8. The Bottom Line
While both Noblesville and Fishers offer a high quality of life, Noblesville comes out ahead in this cost of living showdown. A household moving from Fishers to Noblesville might save $400 per month on housing alone.
However, Fishers’ advantages—like shorter commutes and better public transit—may justify the higher price tag for some families. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your household’s specific needs, preferences, and budget.
Eager to see how other Indiana cities compare? Check out our Average Monthly Expenses in Noblesville, IN and Cost of Living in Noblesville, IN: What You’ll Really Spend in 2025 breakdowns. And if a move is in your future, don’t miss our Best Moving Companies Guide for tips on a smooth relocation.