The median household income in Indiana is $61,900. On the national average student loan balance of $37,650, a standard 10-year repayment plan at 6.54% costs $428/month — representing 8.3% of gross median income. Financial planners typically recommend keeping student loan payments below 10% of gross income.
Indiana's cost of living is near the national average (index: 90). Standard repayment plans are manageable for most borrowers earning at or above the state median income.
Indiana has a state income tax of 3.05% flat. Federal student loan interest is deductible up to $2,500/year if your MAGI is below $85,000, reducing your effective borrowing cost. Check whether Indiana mirrors the federal deduction for state return purposes.