Welcome to the land of bayous and jazz music.
Louisiana, the jewel of the South, is not just a state but an experience. While New Orleans often hogs the limelight, there are tons of hidden gems that call out to those in search of the perfect place to call home.
This article unveils the allure of some of these gems, showcasing why they proudly stand among the best places to live in Louisiana. Each city, with its own unique flair, offers a captivating glimpse into life in the Pelican State.
New Orleans
- Population: 376,971
- Average age: 37.2
- Median household income: $45,594
- Average commute time: 23.7 minutes
- Walk score: 58
- One-bedroom average rent: $1,399
- Two-bedroom average rent: $1,800
Situated along the winding curves of the Mississippi River, New Orleans is undoubtedly one of the best places to live in Louisiana. Louisiana’s largest city is not merely a spectacle for tourists, but a welcoming home for its residents.
Despite its party-centric reputation stemming from legendary Bourbon Street, New Orleans boasts a relaxed pace of life. To put it simply, NOLA is a place where front porch conversations are a daily ritual, and where a strong sense of community is as enduring as the ancient live oaks that line the city streets.
Moreover, New Orleans offers an economic landscape as flavorful as its famous gumbo. Being a key port city, it has plenty of employment opportunities in maritime industries, alongside healthcare, education and technology. Life here extends beyond the working hours into the evenings filled with jazz tunes bumping out of The Spotted Cat Music Club, informal gatherings over Creole cuisine and weekends exploring the countless historical sites surrounding the iconic City Park.
Baton Rouge
- Population: 222,185
- Average age: 32.0
- Median household income: $44,177
- Average commute time: 27.1 minutes
- Walk score: 39
- One-bedroom average rent: $1,042
- Two-bedroom average rent: $1,220
The majestic silhouette of the State Capitol, the tallest in the United States, stands as a sentinel to Baton Rouge’s past while signaling a future filled with promise. Here, in Louisiana’s second-largest city, the serenity of life by the banks of the Mississippi is complemented by a burgeoning economy led by jobs in petrochemicals, medical research and education. The food scene is a mirror to the soul of Baton Rouge, where traditional Southern fare melds effortlessly with modern culinary delights.
Life in Baton Rouge is often described as easy-going, yet filled with small, everyday adventures. It’s a place where weekends are eagerly awaited, not just to break from the work routine, but to explore the myriad parks, lakes and landmarks peppered throughout the city limits. The city’s sports scene is nothing short of legendary, with college football games transforming weekends into an electrifying festival of camaraderie. College town vibes are palpable with reputable institutions like Louisiana State University and Southern University, making it an enticing place for families and recent grads.
Lafayette
- Population: 121,771
- Average age: 36.4
- Median household income: $55,329
- Average commute time: 25.5 minutes
- Walk score: 42
- One-bedroom average rent: $1,257
- Two-bedroom average rent: $1,525
Lafayette’s deeply rooted Cajun and Creole heritage is reflected in its food, music and community celebrations. A city that dances to the rhythmic beats of Zydeco music, Lafayette invites everyone to partake in its joie de vivre. Its heritage is not just a thing of the past, but a living, breathing essence of the community. Lafayette’s culinary scene is a dialogue between tradition and innovation, where classic Cajun and Creole dishes meet contemporary creativity.
When it comes to the daily grind, Lafayette boasts a flourishing economy with noticeable growth in healthcare, education and technology. The city prides itself on having a friendly business environment and a supportive community that cherishes local enterprises. The educational landscape is nothing to scoff at, led by University of Louisiana at Lafayette, instilling a youthful energy into the city’s rhythm. Being a smaller city, Lafayette has less traffic and a closer-knit community feel compared to its larger counterparts, yet with all the amenities and opportunities one would anticipate in a modern urban setting.
Shreveport
- Population: 184,021
- Average age: 36.1
- Median household income: $41,782
- Average commute time: 19.1 minutes
- Walk score: 31
- One-bedroom average rent: $993
- Two-bedroom average rent: $1,346
Perched along the western banks of the Red River, Shreveport firmly claims its title as one of the best places to live in Louisiana. Not to be outshined by its neighbors, this city serves as a magnet for those seeking a harmonious blend of southern hospitality, diverse economic opportunities and easy access to a ton of outdoor activities. Numerous theaters, live music venues and art galleries stand as a testament to the city’s commitment to fostering the arts. Meanwhile, its bustling riverfront area showcases a delightful mix of shops, restaurants and music venues that entice residents and visitors alike.
Daily life in Shreveport is defined by a harmonious balance of work and leisure. The city boasts a robust economy thanks to key industries like healthcare, energy and manufacturing. On weekends, residents often find themselves casting a line in the serene Cross Lake, exploring the scenic trails of the Red River National Wildlife Refuge or perhaps indulging in a little fried food with friends. In essence, Shreveport combines the allure of a larger city with the warmth of a smaller town, making it a compelling contender among the best places to live in Louisiana.
Lake Charles
- Population: 81,097
- Average age: 35.5
- Median household income: $52,986
- Average commute time: 21.7 minutes
- Walk score: 37
- One-bedroom average rent: $802
- Two-bedroom average rent: $935
With its picturesque lakeside setting and classic Southern charm, Lake Charles is undeniably one of the best places to live in Louisiana. This Southwest Louisiana city provides a serene backdrop for a full life. Being a major hub for the petrochemical industry, it’s not just the waters of Lake Charles that glisten, but also the promise of economic opportunities. Yet, it’s the easy access to the great outdoors, from fishing on the lake to strolling the lush parks, that provides a pleasant contrast to the industrious heartbeat of the city.
Life in Lake Charles feels like a breath of fresh air. Residents revel in the city’s many festivals celebrating everything from Mardi Gras to pirates. The food scene, a delightful mix of Southern classics and innovative gastronomy, offers fresh fare that would tantalize any palate. In the realm of education, Lake Charles stands strong with reputable schools, like McNeese State University, contributing to the city’s learned atmosphere. Regardless of how you look at it, Lake Charles is a prime spot in Louisiana to settle down in.
Metairie
- Population: 138,511
- Average age: 41.9
- Median household income: $65,740
- Average commute time: 21.0 minutes
- Walk score: 54
- One-bedroom average rent: $1,087
- Two-bedroom average rent: $1,497
Just a stone’s throw away from the hustle and bustle of New Orleans, Metairie confidently establishes itself among the top spots to live in Louisiana. While it basks in the proximity to the Crescent City’s festivities, Metairie has carved out its unique identity, serving as a haven for those seeking suburban comforts with urban conveniences. Boasting the state’s largest shopping mall, Lakeside, and the scenic beauty of the Metairie Lakefront, the city cleverly blends commerce with leisure, allowing its residents to shop till they drop and then relax by the water’s edge.
Metairie’s tree-lined streets, bustling shopping districts and a solid selection of dining options offer an ever-engaging lifestyle. Family-centric events dot the calendar year-round, from the family-friendly Mardi Gras parades to the local farmers markets. It’s a place where schools are top-notch, parks are aplenty and where neighbors greet each other by name. Proximity to New Orleans means that a more frenetic nightlife or a dose of jazz is just a short drive away, yet many are content with the more mellow offerings of Metairie.
Gretna
- Population: 17,590
- Average age: 41.4
- Median household income: $44,688
- Average commute time: 24.4 minutes
- Walk score: 65
- One-bedroom average rent: $995
- Two-bedroom average rent: $1,217
Situated on the west bank of the Mississippi River across from New Orleans, Gretna might appear as a quaint, lesser-known town, but it holds its own among the best places to live in Louisiana. With its picturesque historic district, antebellum homes and bustling open-air markets, Gretna provides a sweet escape from the city’s clamor while being just a ferry ride away from the heart of the Big Easy. The town’s old-world charm is amplified by its brick-lined streets, where each corner seems to whisper tales from yesteryears, and the iconic David Crockett Firehouse, which stands as a proud testament to the town’s storied past.
With a community that celebrates together, from Gretna Fest to the melodies of the weekly concert series at the Market, there’s a palpable sense of camaraderie. Economically, the city boasts a thriving local business scene, supported by a community that values local products and services. Furthermore, Gretna’s educational institutions are lauded for their excellence, ensuring a bright future for the town’s younger generation.
Bossier City
- Population: 62,865
- Average age: 34.8
- Median household income: $50,027
- Average commute time: 19.0 minutes
- Walk score: 31
- One-bedroom average rent: $1,096
- Two-bedroom average rent: $1,317
Bossier City isn’t just about glitzy casinos and entertainment hotspots; it’s a place where the pull of community spirit is just as magnetic as the allure of its boardwalk. Bossier City is like a masterful magician, balancing the thrills of urban life with the tranquility of picturesque neighborhoods and green spaces.
The rhythm of everyday life in Bossier City is a dance of opportunity and relaxation. The local economy is buoyed by a mix of retail, technology and defense jobs, thanks to the presence of Barksdale Air Force Base. For families, the city provides a sanctuary of top-tier schools, expansive parks and a healthy selection of outdoor activities. With its harmonious blend of economic growth, communal events and serene living spaces, Bossier City offers residents an enriching life right on the Red River’s shores.
Alexandria
- Population: 44,787
- Average age: 37.2
- Median household income: $43,760
- Average commute time: 24.5 minutes
- Walk score: 30
- One-bedroom average rent: $575
- Two-bedroom average rent: $650
Hidden away in the heart of the state, Alexandria radiates an allure that firmly establishes it among the prime places to live in Louisiana. With the Red River gracefully snaking its way through the town, Alexandria’s scenic beauty is complemented by a thriving city center. It’s a place where history feels alive, evident in the preserved 19th-century homes of the Garden District and the majestic Hotel Bentley, a beacon of architectural splendor and timeless luxury.
The pulse of Alexandria is a harmonious blend of commerce, recreation and community ties. The city’s business landscape is diversified, spanning healthcare, education and retail. For residents, life is beautifully punctuated with visits to the Alexandria Zoological Park, afternoon strolls in the lush greenery of the City Park or perhaps indulging in the local dining scene, which offers a delicious marriage of traditional Southern flavors with contemporary twists.
Slidell
- Population: 28,658
- Average age: 39.5
- Median household income: $57,920
- Average commute time: 25.7 minutes
- Walk score: 36
- One-bedroom average rent: $1,132
- Two-bedroom average rent: $1,325
Located on the northeast tip of Lake Pontchartrain, Slidell shines brilliantly when it comes to places to live in Louisiana. With its alluring combination of waterfront vistas, majestic oak trees and a bustling town center, Slidell effortlessly blends the tranquility of lakeside living with the verve of modern life. It’s a place where sailboats dot the horizon by day, while the city lights paint a mesmerizing picture by night.
Life in Slidell is all about savoring the small moments while embracing the vast opportunities the city offers. A hub for shopping enthusiasts, the Fremaux Town Center boasts a range of retailers that satiate every shopping whim. Meanwhile, foodies can enjoy a taste of Louisiana’s culinary magic in the city’s many restaurants. For families, Slidell comes alive with parks, top-notch schools and community events that foster a tight-knit bond among residents of all ages.
Life is good in Louisiana
From the rhythmic streets of New Orleans to the tranquil shores of Slidell, Louisiana unfolds as a landscape of diverse experiences and unparalleled beauty. Those in search of a place to root themselves will find Louisiana’s cities and towns to be more than just places to live; they are gateways to a life rich in tradition, innovation and community spirit.
Discovering the best places to live in Louisiana is akin to uncovering hidden treasures, each more dazzling than the last. Whether you’re drawn by the promise of economic opportunity, the classic charm of historic districts or the embrace of a tight-knit community, the perfect Louisiana apartment awaits, ready to welcome you with open arms.
