An efficient synthetic method for 2, 3-dihydro-1H-indene-1-methanamine and its derivatives is described. Six compounds of 2, 3-dihydro-1H-indene-1-methanamines were synthesized from corresponding 4-nitro-3-phenylbutanoic acid in satisfactory yields (50.9–57.9 % in 4 steps), and three compounds (1c, 1e, 1f) were newly reported. This procedure has the advantages of mild conditions, less pollution, and simple manipulation.