In the world of motorsports, the Indianapolis 500 is the pinnacle of prestige and performance. But beyond the track, many of racing’s most legendary names have chosen to put down roots right here in Indiana. For these drivers, team owners, and industry pioneers, Indiana isn’t just where they race—it’s where they belong.
At Lockstep Realty, brokered by eXp Realty, we believe that real estate is about more than property. It’s about people finding a place that fits their purpose. And just like these racing greats, we know how powerful it is to find a home that aligns with your passion, lifestyle, and legacy.
Conor Daly: Noblesville’s Hometown Hero
Conor Daly isn’t just a driver in the Indy 500 field—he’s Indiana’s own. Born and raised in Noblesville, Daly is a second-generation racer with deep roots in the Hoosier state. Over the years, he’s grown into one of the most beloved drivers in the paddock—not just for his performance, but for his pride in where he comes from.
He led the most laps in the 2021 Indy 500 and scored a career-best 6th-place finish in 2022. This year, he’s honoring fellow Hoosier and racing legend Wilbur Shaw by wearing a custom helmet featuring Shaw’s likeness and accomplishments. Shaw, the last Indiana native to win the Indy 500 (in 1940), remains a symbol of state pride and racing excellence.
Daly’s story is more than a feel-good headline—it’s proof that Indiana continues to grow and support racing talent who want to live and work in the place that built them.
Indiana: The Home of Racing Legends
While many drivers come to Indiana for race month, a surprising number stay long after the engines cool. Why? Because Indiana offers what few places can: connection to the sport, access to training infrastructure, and a community that reveres its racing roots.
Ed Carpenter
Though born in Illinois, Carpenter moved to Indiana as a child and proudly calls Indy his hometown. He owns Ed Carpenter Racing, based in Speedway, and is a longtime favorite during the Month of May.
Sarah Fisher
A former driver and team owner, Fisher has built much of her racing and business life in Indianapolis. Her contributions to local motorsports culture have been vital in shaping the next generation of racing talent.
Tony Stewart
A Columbus, Indiana native, Stewart is one of the most accomplished racers in American motorsports. While known for his NASCAR success, he’s raced in the IndyCar series and has remained fiercely loyal to his hometown.
Dan Wheldon
The late two-time Indy 500 champion resided in Indianapolis during his career and was a fixture in the community. His impact is still felt throughout the racing world and the city.
A.J. Foyt
A Texas native with a massive legacy at the Indy 500, Foyt's Indianapolis ties run deep. His longstanding presence in the race—and connection to fans—cemented his influence beyond state lines.
Michael Andretti
While born in Pennsylvania, Andretti’s team, Andretti Global, is headquartered in Indianapolis, making it a critical contributor to Indiana’s racing industry and job market.
Why Racing Legends Stay in Indiana
For high-performing individuals like professional drivers, Indiana offers something unique: the space to live privately, the infrastructure to keep working, and the community to feel supported.
The Draw of the Hoosier State:
Close proximity to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Strong support for motorsports at the local and state level
Affordable, spacious homes with acreage, garages, and flexibility
Deep fan loyalty and statewide appreciation of the sport
A quieter, balanced lifestyle that still keeps them connected to racing
Many settle in areas like Noblesville, Brownsburg, Zionsville, Carmel, and Speedway—where quality of life and access to the action go hand in hand.
What Lockstep Agents Learn from Racing Legends
At Lockstep Realty, we recognize a kindred spirit in the racing world. The values that define great racers—preparation, performance under pressure, teamwork, and resilience—are the same values we bring to real estate.
Our agents:
Prepare clients for every turn in the transaction process
Rely on team collaboration instead of ego
Thrive in fast-moving environments without sacrificing quality
Show up ready—every time
Much like a successful pit crew, our job is to anticipate challenges, fine-tune every step, and help you win your race—whether you’re buying your first home or upgrading for your next chapter.
Belonging, On and Off the Track
The thread connecting all of these stories—from Conor Daly’s Noblesville roots to Tony Stewart’s loyalty to Columbus—is the desire to belong. These legends didn’t just race here. They found community here. They found opportunity, stability, and home.
Real estate isn’t just about closing deals. It’s about creating foundations for the people and families who shape our neighborhoods and inspire our cities. At Lockstep, we’re proud to support that process—just as Indiana supports its drivers.
FAQs – Indy 500 Racing Legends and Indiana Real Estate
Which Indy 500 legends have lived in Indiana?
Conor Daly (Noblesville), Tony Stewart (Columbus), Ed Carpenter (Indianapolis), Dan Wheldon (Indianapolis), and Sarah Fisher (Speedway) are among the many.
What areas do racing professionals prefer to live in?
Noblesville, Zionsville, Brownsburg, and Speedway are all popular for their mix of privacy, access, and proximity to IMS.
Are there special real estate considerations for racing pros?
Yes—many seek properties with additional garage space, acreage, and security. Lockstep agents understand these unique needs.
Is the Indy 500 a factor in property value?
It can be. Homes in Speedway and nearby areas often see demand spikes during May, especially for rental and investment properties.
How does Lockstep support high-performance clients?
We offer off-market opportunities, custom search criteria, and discreet consultation for clients with complex or high-profile real estate goals.
Final Thoughts – From Victory Lane to Living Room Comfort
For Indiana’s racing legends, home isn’t just a place to rest—it’s a symbol of stability, purpose, and pride. They’ve chosen to stay in the state that shaped their careers, and in doing so, they’ve added to the legacy of what it means to belong here.
At Lockstep Realty, brokered by eXp Realty, we help every client—whether racing royalty or first-time buyer—find the same sense of place, purpose, and pride.
