West Lafayette is a thriving college town situated across the Wabash River from its larger sister city of Lafayette. Home to the prestigious Purdue University, West Lafayette has a lively, youthful atmosphere with ample dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions catering to students and residents alike. Despite its relatively small population of around 45,000, the city boasts an impressive array of museums, performing arts venues, parks, and recreational facilities associated with the university.

One of the most desirable aspects of living in West Lafayette is the chance to take advantage of everything a major research university has to offer right in your backyard. Purdue’s campus blends seamlessly into the fabric of the city, with academic buildings, sports facilities like Ross-Ade Stadium, and abundant green spaces integrated throughout West Lafayette’s neighborhoods. Residents have access to Division I athletic events, art galleries, libraries, seminars, and more.

Beyond the university, West Lafayette charms with its historic districts full of turn-of-the-century homes, lush parks along the river, kid-friendly attractions like the Lilly Nature Center, and a walkable downtown area packed with locally-owned shops, cafes, and restaurants. With relatively low crime rates and affordable housing, it’s no wonder West Lafayette appears on many “Best College Town” lists year after year.