The 6 Most Beautiful Places to Live In Louisiana That Are Still Affordable

Louisiana is a beautiful southeastern state on the Gulf of Mexico. Known for its large city of New Orleans, its Mardi Gras festivals, and its brutally hot summers, this U.S. state has a history of being “America’s first melting pot.” Not only that, but Louisiana is one of the more inexpensive states in the country with many affordable places through the state. The state’s cost of living is 9% lower than the national average. In particular, housing is 17% lower and utilities are 13% lower.

Throughout the state of Louisiana, there are countless cities and small towns known for their affordability. Thankfully, you don’t have to sacrifice beauty for financial stability. Many gorgeous, vibrant cities throughout the state are still inexpensive gems.

Here are six of the most beautiful yet affordable places in Louisiana.

1. Mandeville

Mandeville is located in Saint Tammany Parish, Louisiana. Nestled on the North Shore of Lake Pontchartrain, this city is one of the safest and cleanest in the state. Furthermore, its public schools are some of the best in Louisiana. As a result, many families with young children live in Mandeville.

The city of Mandeville is also home to numerous well-kept, captivating recreational areas and countless restaurants, making it a popular travel destination. The affordable city had a population of over 13,100 people in 2021.

Mandeville’s cost of living is 13% lower than the national average.

2. Lake Charles

Located in southwest Louisiana, Lake Charles is a city known for its Historic City Hall Arts & Cultural Center and the Imperial Calcasieu Museum. This beautiful yet affordable location offers a small-town charm, energetic nightlife, and exquisite natural wonders.

Most residents of Lake Charles are homeowners and relish a suburban feel. The city is especially filled with families and young professionals. Additionally, the school system is above average. As of 2021, the population in Lake Charles was over 81,000.

Lake Charles’s cost of living is 15% lower than the national average.

3. Lafayette

Lafayette, Louisiana is located in the southern part of the state and offers low-cost living with a growing economy and a phenomenal education system. In fact, the city is home to incredible universities such as the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and Remington College Lafayette.

Additionally, the affordable Louisiana city offers diverse food options, vibrant nightlife, a deep culture, and a rich history. Specifically, Lafayette features the Alexandre Mouton House (also known as the Lafayette Museum), the Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum, and LARC’s Acadian Village. As of 2021, the population in Lafayette was 121,771.

While many people say the city’s housing expenses have increased over the past several years, Lafayette’s cost of living is 12% lower than the national average. This is especially uncommon for a major U.S. city.

4. Monroe

Monroe, Louisiana is located in the northern portion of the state. With a 2021 population of almost 47,300 people, this city is filled with rich history. Monroe boasts the Biedenharn Museum and Gardens, Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo, and Chennault Aviation and Military Museum. If you’re looking for some nature-related adventures, you can also visit the Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge or the town’s countless gorgeous parks.

Monroe is known as a college town with great schools and community outreach programs. Many people visit the area for its vivacious social scene and abundance of outdoor activities.

Monroe’s cost of living is 13% lower than the national average.

5. West Monroe

West Monroe is another affordable and bustling place in Louisiana. Located in Ouachita Parish, West Monroe sits right across the Ouachita River from Monroe. In fact, Monroe and West Monroe are often referred to as “Twin Cities” in Louisiana. West Monroe had a population of over 12,800 people as of 2021.

West Monroe is considered a safe city with a tight-knit community. There are countless local small businesses and restaurants as well as friendly faces, cultivating a welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike.

Like its twin, West Monroe’s cost of living is also 13% lower than the national average.

6. Baton Rouge

A popular Louisiana city, Baton Rouge is located on the Mississippi River and is the capital of the state. Baton Rouge is filled with an incredible food scene and a lively and diverse community. The city offers a rich history with countless museums and outdoor activities. Baton Rouge’s population was almost 222,200 people as of 2021.

Many people are surprised to hear that Baton Rouge is actually an affordable city with a cost-of-living of living that’s 3% lower than the national average. In comparison, New Orleans has a 12% higher cost of living than the national average. Additionally, Baton Rouge’s housing costs are up to 20% lower than its neighboring metro areas.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Roberto Michel/Shutterstock.com