Community Overview

Exploring Our Community

Regional Character & Geography

As you fly into Northwest Indiana, you'll be greeted by a compelling landscape where the southern shores of Lake Michigan transition into gently rolling terrain dotted with lakes, parks, and welcoming communities. Crown Point sits as the proud county seat of Lake County, strategically positioned at the crossroads of rural charm and urban accessibility. Known as the "Hub of Lake County," Crown Point offers a picturesque Midwestern setting with tree-lined streets, historic architecture, and a vibrant town square that immediately conveys the community's character.

Located in Northwest Indiana, part of the greater Chicago metropolitan area, yet maintaining its distinct small-town identity
Situated approximately 50 miles southeast of downtown Chicago, offering proximity without the congestion
Perfect blend of suburban comfort and rural openness, with agricultural lands and natural areas surrounding the city limits
Four distinct seasons with 188 average sunny days per year

A Community of Distinction

Crown Point stands apart from many Midwestern communities through its unique combination of historic preservation and progressive development. The city's iconic Lake County Courthouse, locally known as the "Grand Old Lady," dominates the town square and serves as both a landmark and a symbol of the community's deep historical roots. As you explore Crown Point, you'll discover a place that has carefully balanced growth with maintaining its distinctive character.

Recognized as one of the safest cities in Indiana, with crime rates significantly below national averages
Featured in Midwest Living magazine as a hidden gem for its picturesque downtown and quality of life
Home to the Lake County Fairgrounds, which hosts one of Indiana's oldest and largest county fairs
Excellent school system that consistently ranks among the top districts in the state
Strong sense of community identity through year-round events and celebrations

Accessibility & Connectivity

While enjoying Crown Point's small-town atmosphere, you'll appreciate the excellent connectivity to major metropolitan areas and transportation hubs. This accessibility makes Crown Point an ideal location for professionals who want the best of both worlds: a peaceful, close-knit community with easy access to big-city amenities.

Just 35 minutes from Midway and 45 minutes from O'Hare International Airport
Direct access to I-65, connecting to Indianapolis (2 hours south) and Chicago (45 minutes north)
Proximity to South Shore Line commuter rail service for convenient travel to Chicago
Within a 3-hour drive of Indianapolis, Milwaukee, and Grand Rapids
Easy weekend access to the Indiana Dunes National Park (30 minutes) and Michigan's Harbor Country (1 hour)

Lifestyle Advantages

When relocating to Crown Point, you'll quickly understand why residents choose this community over larger metropolitan areas. The city offers a pace of life that allows healthcare professionals to truly decompress after demanding shifts, with shorter commutes, less traffic, and more accessible outdoor recreation than you would find in major cities.

Enjoy a 10-minute average commute to work compared to 45+ minutes in larger metro areas
Experience the satisfaction of knowing most of your patients as neighbors and community members
Benefit from the financial freedom of Northwest Indiana's reasonable cost of living
Be a valued healthcare leader in a community that genuinely needs your services
Maintain easy access to Chicago's world-class cultural amenities while living in a peaceful, family-friendly environment

Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Looking to explore a new destination, but not sure where to start? A travel guide can help you discover the hidden gems and must-see attractions of a new place. Whether you're looking for the best local cuisine, the most scenic views, or the most exciting activities, a good travel guide can provide you with insider knowledge and expert recommendations. With a travel guide in hand, you can make the most of your trip and experience a new place like a local. So why not start planning your next adventure with a travel guide today?

View Guide

History Unveiled: A Journey Through Time

Pioneer Beginnings

Crown Point's story begins in 1834 when Solon Robinson and his family settled on the land that would become the heart of the community. As you walk the streets of modern Crown Point, you're treading the same paths as these early pioneers who were drawn to the region's fertile soil and strategic location. Robinson, a visionary settler, carefully selected this elevated ground—the highest point in the county—for its natural advantages, which would later inspire the city's name. Within just a few years of settlement, this small frontier outpost was designated as the county seat of Lake County in 1837, establishing Crown Point's enduring role as a center of government and commerce for the region.

The original 1837 log courthouse established Crown Point as a hub of regional governance
Early settlers were primarily farmers attracted by the region's rich agricultural potential
Planned with a central square surrounded by commercial and civic buildings
Many city streets bear the names of founding families

Railroad Era & Growth

The mid-19th century brought transformative change to Crown Point with the arrival of the railroad in 1865. As the tracks were laid, connecting the community to Chicago and points beyond, Crown Point transitioned from an isolated frontier town to a connected hub of commerce and industry. During this period, the iconic Lake County Courthouse that dominates the town square was constructed (1878–1880), demonstrating the community's prosperity and ambition. This magnificent Romanesque Revival structure remains Crown Point's most recognizable landmark.

One of Indiana's most beautiful public buildings when completed
Railroad connection to Chicago spurred population and economic growth
Historic commercial buildings around the square date from this era
Reputation for craftsmanship still evident in preserved architecture

The "Marriage Mill" Era

Crown Point gained national notoriety in the early 20th century as the "Marriage Mill of the Midwest" due to Indiana's lenient marriage laws requiring no waiting period. Between 1915 and 1940, thousands of couples—many celebrities among them—traveled to Crown Point to be married at the courthouse or in nearby chapels. In 1944, Hollywood star Rudolph Valentino famously eloped to Crown Point, placing the city in national headlines.

The courthouse became a romantic destination for thousands of weddings
Justices of the peace and entrepreneurs created a thriving wedding industry
Several chapels were located in historic buildings around the square
Celebrity marriages linked Crown Point to American pop culture

Modern Development & Preservation

The post-WWII era brought suburban expansion to Crown Point due to its proximity to Chicago. Through this growth, the community has shown a remarkable commitment to historic preservation. The restoration of the historic courthouse in the 1970s into a museum and community hub symbolizes Crown Point's ability to balance progress with heritage.

The courthouse was saved from demolition by committed residents
Downtown layout preserved while modernized for current needs
Historic homes lovingly maintained, enhancing residential charm
Annual heritage events celebrate the community's deep roots

Living History Today

As a healthcare professional in Crown Point, you'll experience the satisfaction of practicing in a place rich with history. Your daily commute may take you past the Old Lake County Courthouse, now a vibrant community center. From shopping in century-old buildings to dining in restored historic homes, you'll enjoy a special connection to a place where the past is ever-present.

The Lake County Historical Museum preserves and shares local history
Walking tours provide insight into architecture and culture
Longtime families share oral histories that enrich community life
Street festivals and courthouse events link residents to local heritage

Population & Demographics: Understanding Our Diverse Community

Community Composition & Growth

As you establish your midwifery practice in Crown Point, you'll be serving a dynamic, growing community of approximately 31,000 residents within the city limits. Crown Point has experienced steady, sustainable growth over the past decade, with a population increase of about 9% since 2010—a reflection of its increasing desirability as a residential destination. This growth has been carefully managed to maintain the community's character while embracing new residents. As part of the greater Chicago Metropolitan Statistical Area, you'll find yourself practicing within a regional population of over 9 million, though your daily experience will be shaped by Crown Point's distinctive small-city atmosphere.

Crown Point proper: approximately 31,000 residents with steady annual growth
Lake County population: approximately 485,000 residents
Northwest Indiana region: approximately 770,000 residents
Balanced demographic distribution with strong representation across age groups
Growing number of young families attracted by excellent schools and quality of life

Demographic Diversity

Crown Point offers a welcoming community with a predominantly Midwestern cultural identity while embracing increasing diversity. The community features a stable population base with deep local roots complemented by newcomers drawn by healthcare, education, and professional opportunities. As a CNM, you'll appreciate the opportunity to serve patients from diverse backgrounds while enjoying the strong sense of community that characterizes Crown Point.

Predominantly white (85%) with growing Hispanic/Latino (8%), Black (3%), and Asian (2%) populations
Increasing cultural diversity, particularly among younger residents and families
Median age: 40.2 years, slightly above the national average
Families with children: about 30% of households
Growing healthcare workforce due to regional medical expansion

Professional Environment

Crown Point and the surrounding Northwest Indiana region offer an attractive environment for healthcare professionals and their families. The community features a solid middle and upper-middle-class economic foundation with significant professional and managerial employment. Many residents commute to Chicago or work locally in the growing healthcare, education, and professional services sectors. As a CNM joining Franciscan Physician Network, you'll be among a well-educated and health-conscious population.

Median household income: approximately $77,000, above state and national averages
Strong presence of healthcare, education, and professional service workers
36% of adults hold bachelor's degrees or higher, with rising educational attainment
Major employers include healthcare systems, school corporations, and legal/professional firms
Career opportunities for spouses in related fields like healthcare, education, and law

Community Character

When you join the Crown Point community, you'll quickly notice the genuine Midwestern hospitality that defines interactions here. Residents take pride in their community and warmly welcome newcomers, especially healthcare professionals who enhance local quality of life. With a population that blends cosmopolitan awareness and small-town values, Crown Point feels both sophisticated and approachable.

Strong civic engagement with high participation in events and local governance
Multigenerational families provide stability and historical continuity
Friendly social environment where connections form quickly
Community values: education, healthcare, and family-friendly amenities
Volunteerism and support for local organizations are highly visible

Cultural Celebrations

Throughout the year, Crown Point's diverse community comes together for festivals and events that reflect both its historical roots and evolving cultural identity. These events offer excellent ways for newcomers to integrate into the community while enjoying vibrant, family-friendly activities.

Festival of the Lakes celebrates natural heritage and cultural diversity
Taste of Crown Point showcases local cuisine and traditions
Lake County Fair: Indiana's second-largest county fair brings urban and rural residents together
Crown Point Corn Roast honors the region’s agricultural legacy
International cultural festivals throughout Northwest Indiana highlight global cuisines and customs