Indianapolis is the capital of the U.S. state of Indiana, and the county seat of Marion County, Indiana. The United States Census estimates the city's population (excluding included towns) at 795,458. It is by far Indiana's largest city and is the 13th largest city in the U.S.,the third largest city in the Midwest, and the second most populous state capital (behind Phoenix, Arizona).

For much of its history, Indianapolis oriented itself around government and industry, particularly manufacturing. Today, Indianapolis has a much more diversified economy, contributing to the fields of education, healthcare, and finance. Tourism is also a vital part of the economy of Indianapolis, and the city plays host to numerous conventions and sporting events. Of these, perhaps most well known is the annual Indianapolis 500 race. Other major sporting events include the Allstate 400 and the Men's and Women's NCAA Basketball Tournaments.

Greater Indianapolis has seen moderate growth among U.S. cities, especially in nearby Hamilton, Hendricks, and Johnson counties. The population of the combined statistical area is estimated at 2,014,267, making it the 23rd-largest CSA in the U.S.