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North Vernon

city

North Vernon is a city located in Jennings County, Indiana, in the south-central part of the state. As of 2020, the city had a population of 6,608. North Vernon offers a blend of small-town charm and access to outdoor recreational opportunities, making it an attractive place for families and outdoor enthusiasts. North Vernon's economy is diverse, with major employment sectors including manufacturing, retail trade, and healthcare. The city is working towards energy independence with solar initiatives and is becoming a community rich in outdoor leisure and adventure. Recent investments in housing and infrastructure aim to support future growth. North Vernon has a rich history, originally named Tripton and platted in 1854. Several historical sites are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including Annadale and the downtown historic districts. The city is near the Muscatatuck River and Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge, offering opportunities for outdoor activities.

North Vernon, Indiana

Overview
Classification
City
FIPS Code
18-55116
Country
United States
County
Jennings County
Geography
Region
Midwest
Elevation
719 ft
Total Area
7.68 sq mi
Land Area
7.67 sq mi
Water Area
0.012 sq mi
Latitude
39.005
Longitude
-85.62778
Climate
Hot, humid summers and cold winters
Notable Features
Muscatatuck River · Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge
Neighboring Areas
Vernon · Hayden · Butlerville · Lovett · Scipio
Demographics
Population (2020)
6,608
Est. Population (2026)
6,546
Median Age
37.9
Median Income
$51,429
Poverty Rate
16.72%
Family Households
59.9%
Racial & Ethnic Composition
White (88.49%), Two or more races (6.67%), Other race (2.61%), Asian (1.3%), Black or African American (0.93%)
Governance
Government Type
Mayor-Council
Governing Body
City Council
School District
Jennings County School Corporation
Municipal Services
Police · Fire · Parks & Recreation
Economy
Unemployment Rate
4.2%
Economic Profile
Residential · Commercial
Employment Sectors
Manufacturing · Retail Trade · Health Care & Social Assistance
Education
Schools
8
Students
3,800
Graduation Rate
95.9%
School Districts
Jennings County School Corporation
Colleges & Universities
Ivy Tech Community College
Infrastructure
Transportation
Highways · Rail freight
Utilities
Municipal water · Solar energy initiatives
Major Facilities
State-of-the-art airport
Recreation
Outdoor Access
Yes
Major Recreation Areas
Muscatatuck Park · Eco Lake Park · City Park · Tripton Park
Parks & Trails
City Park · Muscatatuck Trail · Quarry Adventure Park (under construction)
History
Founded
1854
Incorporated
1875
Named After
Originally called Tripton
Historical Significance
Important railroad crossing and agricultural center
Key Events
Platted by Hagerman Tripp in 1854 · Became a railroad hub · Several historic districts listed on the National Register of Historic Places