Want Louisiana’s bohemian lifestyle without New Orleans’s high prices? Don’t give up on the dream. You can afford a house in the Bayou State if you know where to look.
Your perfect home could be a family-friendly house in Minden or a starter home in Bastrop, Louisiana’s agricultural hub. If you’re retiring, look at homes for sale in Abbeville to enjoy a low-cost coastal lifestyle, with median home prices under $70,000.
After assessing hundreds of cities, we’ve ranked the 10 most affordable places to live in Louisiana to help you find a home that fits your budget.
Houzeo is America’s best home buying and selling platform.
For Home Sellers: List your home for a Flat Fee, and save 2.5% to 5.5% on the listing agent commission! That’s thousands of dollars extra in your pocket.
For Home Buyers: Houzeo has the most number of houses for sale in Louisiana. Start your dream home search now!
Yes! You can list your home for sale or search millions of homes on the Houzeo mobile app!
Download now on the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.
Key Takeaways
- Bastrop is the most affordable city: Bastrop’s cost of living is 14% lower than the national average. With a median home price of $72,900, it is the cheapest place to live in Louisiana.
- Shreveport is the best city for young professionals: As the largest job market in the state, Shreveport is a prime spot to build a career.
- For families, Minden is a great choice: With top-notch schools, safe neighborhoods, and affordable housing, Minden is an ideal place to raise a family on a budget.
- Retirees should consider Abbeville: Retirees can enjoy a calm, slower pace of life, with homes typically ranging from $249,000 to $345,000.
- Don’t forget Louisiana’s “storm cost premium”: Homeowners insurance is high due to hurricane, wind, and hail risks. Premiums for an average home can easily exceed $4,500–$6,000 per year, roughly 3–4 times the national average.
Cheapest Places to Live in Louisiana in 2026
| City | Median Home Value | Median House Rent | Cost of Living Compared to State Average | Affordability Score (Out of 10) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Bastrop | $72,900 | $700 | 0% ⬇️ | 7.9 |
| 2. Minden | $150,000 | $775 | 10% ⬇️ | 7.6 |
| 3. Eunice | $157,500 | $700 | 7% ⬇️ | 7.6 |
| 4. Crowley | $165,000 | $750 | 8% ⬇️ | 7.4 |
| 5. Abbeville | $70,000 | $969 | 5% ⬇️ | 7.3 |
| 6. Bogalusa | $125,000 | $1,000 | 7% ⬇️ | 7.3 |
| 7. Jennings | $189,000 | $750 | 9% ⬇️ | 7 |
| 8. Jeanerette | $139,000 | $1,200 | 19% ⬇️ | 6.8 |
| 9. Franklin | $153,000 | $1,200 | 10% ⬇️ | 6.4 |
| 10. Shreveport | $185,000 | $1,123 | 4% ⬆️ | 5.7 |
How We Ranked the Most Affordable Places to Live in Louisiana
To identify the cheap places to live in Louisiana, we carried out an in-depth analysis using multiple reliable data sources and indicators of affordability.
Data Sources:
- Median Home Prices: We used Houzeo’s Louisiana Housing Market report and double-checked the numbers with the data from Institute for Economic Development & Real Estate Research (UNO).
- Median Rent: We got the rent data from C2ER, which publishes the national Cost of Living Index. This was verified every few months to make sure it’s accurate.
- Overall Cost of Living: We covered 6 big spending categories— housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods— from C2ER and Houzeo’s Cost of Living in Louisiana Calculator. We then compared everything to the U.S. average of 100.
We studied housing data from 2022 to 2025 to identify cities that remained affordable over time, not just during short dips in prices. Furthermore, each city’s data was also cross-checked with HUD and state economic reports.
All our information is up to date as of 2025, ensuring you receive the most current insights.
Affordability Scoring:
We built a simple scoring system that focuses on what really matters:
- Median Home Price (40%)
- Median Rent (35%)
- Cost of Living (25%)
This way, we can clearly show which Louisiana cities give you the best value for your money. You can also check out our score breakdown to see how each city was ranked.
Image credits: All blog images are sourced from Freepik.
10 Cheapest Places to Live in Louisiana
Bastrop is the cheapest place in LA to live. With convenient access to Chemin-A-Haut State Park and historic downtown charm, homes for sale in Bastrop provide affordable entry into comfortable Louisiana living.
- Oak Ridge: A small historic village halfway between Bastrop and Interstate 20, Oak Ridge offers quiet country living. The area features the historic Starr Homeplace museum and provides easy access to rural tranquility.
- Pine Grove: This residential area near Bastrop High School features tree-lined streets. Proximity to Louisiana Delta Community College’s Bastrop campus and Morehouse Parish public schools makes it attractive for families.
- Willow Creek: A peaceful neighborhood located near Chemin-A-Haut State Park’s hiking trails. It’s close to downtown shopping along U.S. Highway 165, offering convenient access to Simmons Sporting Goods and local retailers.
- Job Market: Manufacturing remains the economic backbone, with DG Foods’ poultry processing plant employing hundreds since opening in 2011. Healthcare opportunities exist at Morehouse General Hospital. Local government and Morehouse Parish Schools provide stable employment too.
- Recreation: Chemin-A-Haut State Park offers 503 acres of hiking trails, camping, and picnicking. The Snyder Museum and Creative Arts Center showcases local history. The 1914 Morehouse Parish Courthouse and Rose Theater host community events.
- Limited job diversity: Manufacturing-dependent economy with reduced opportunities since major plant closures.
- High poverty rate: Below-average median income of $23,000 limits economic mobility.
- Limited public transportation: Car ownership is extremely essential as there is no city bus system.
Minden charms visitors with its distinctive red-bricked Main Street lined with Victorian architecture. This Webster Parish city offers exceptional value for those seeking small-town atmosphere with modern conveniences. Homes for sale in Minden provide access to strong community spirit and historic southern character.
- Highland Park: An established residential area near Minden High School featuring mature trees and well-maintained homes. It has proximity to Minden Medical Center and Germantown Colony Museum.
- North Minden: Suburban neighborhood along U.S. Highway 371 offering newer construction and family-oriented development. Located near Webster Parish schools including Minden Elementary, with easy access to Lake Bistineau State Park’s 15,000 acres of water recreation.
- Willow Glen: Walking distance to Main Street’s boutiques and restaurants, near City Park’s playgrounds and sports facilities, providing easy access to the annual Christmas on the Bricks holiday celebration.
- Job Market: Fibrebond Corporation manufactures fiberglass shelters and structures, serving as a major employer. Vector Security provides technology jobs in the security systems sector. Healthcare opportunities exist at Minden Medical Center and local clinics.
- Recreation: Lake Bistineau State Park offers fishing, boating, and camping 15 miles north of town. Downtown’s red-bricked Main Street features antique shops and local restaurants. Germantown Colony Museum preserves 1830s German settlement history.
- Limited nightlife: Few entertainment options for young adults beyond restaurants and bars.
- High Louisiana taxes: Combined state and local sales tax rates average 10.11%, the highest in the U.S., impacting everyday purchases.
- Mold and humidity: Buildings require regular pressure washing in humid subtropical climate.
Known as the “Prairie Cajun Capital,” Eunice delivers authentic Louisiana culture and is one of the cheapest places to live in LA. Homes for sale in Eunice offer buyers genuine Cajun lifestyle, rich cultural events, and small-town hospitality without the premium price tag.
- Central Eunice: It is a historic downtown core surrounding the Liberty Theater, home to the Rendez-Vous des Cajuns radio show broadcast live every Saturday. Within walking distance of the Eunice Museum and Prairie Acadian Cultural Center.
- Westside: Residential neighborhoods west of Martin Luther King Drive featuring affordable single-family homes. It’s close to Eunice High School and Eunice Junior High, with nearby access to City Park’s baseball diamonds where the Eunice Bobcats play.
- North Eunice: It is a developing area along Highway 13 offering newer housing stock. Near St. Edmund Catholic School and within reach of Chicot State Park’s 6,400 acres, Louisiana’s largest state park.
- Job Market: Agriculture dominates, particularly rice and crawfish farming. The Eunice Hospital provides healthcare employment. Manufacturing includes food processing facilities tied to local agriculture. Education jobs exist through St. Landry Parish Schools and Louisiana State University at Eunice.
- Recreation: Liberty Theater hosts Rendez-Vous des Cajuns every Saturday, Louisiana’s longest-running live radio show. The Prairie Acadian Cultural Center interprets Cajun culture through exhibits and demonstrations. Savoy’s Music Center draws musicians for Saturday morning jam sessions.
- Very limited job market: Economy heavily dependent on agriculture with few professional opportunities.
- Rural isolation: Significant distance from major cities; nearest city Lafayette is 40 miles away.
- Hurricane vulnerability: Inland location offers some protection but still susceptible to tropical storms.
Crowley earned its title as “Rice Capital of America” through vast agricultural operations that still define the city’s economy and culture. Homes for sale in Crowley deliver small-town charm, Victorian architecture, and strong agricultural community connections at highly accessible prices.
- Crowley Northeast: Residential area near Crowley High School and Crowley Middle School, featuring established homes with large yards. It’s close to the Grand Opera House of the South and within walking distance of North Parkerson Avenue’s local businesses and restaurants.
- Ellis/Maxie: It’s a quiet neighborhood southeast of downtown along Highway 13 offering affordable housing options. Near Crowley Regional Medical Center for convenient healthcare access, with proximity to Levy Park’s playground too.
- Ebenezer: A rural-suburban community on Crowley’s outskirts featuring larger lots and country atmosphere. Located near rice fields and crawfish ponds that define the area’s agricultural character.
- Job Market: Rice farming and processing anchor the economy, with major mills and grain elevators throughout. Manufacturing includes rice-related food processing and agricultural equipment. Crowley Regional Medical Center provides healthcare jobs.
- Recreation: The International Rice Festival each October features carnival rides, Cajun food, and live music. Grand Opera House of the South hosts theatrical performances and concerts year-round. Levy Park offers playgrounds, walking trails, and sports fields.
- Limited entertainment: Few options beyond festivals and local restaurants; nearest city amenities are in Lafayette.
- Agricultural odors: Rice mills and crawfish farms produce seasonal smells.
- Stagnant wage growth: Agriculture-dependent economy offers limited salary advancement potential.
Abbeville combines authentic Cajun culture with scenic bayou living in one of Louisiana’s most charming small towns. Homes for sale in Abbeville provide access to world-class birding, fresh seafood, and tight-knit community atmosphere at remarkably affordable prices.
- North Abbeville: It’s a residential area north of the Vermilion River near Abbeville High School and Erath Middle School. Close to the Vermilion River waterfront and Abbeville Meridional newspaper offices.
- Charon: Community along Louisiana Highway 14 southeast of downtown offering affordable housing. It’s near Magdalen Square shopping areas and local restaurants, with proximity to Palmetto Island State Park.
- City Center: It’s the historic downtown core surrounding Abbeville Town Square’s iconic gazebo and St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church. Walking distance to dozens of antique shops, local eateries serving fresh oysters.
- Job Market: Seafood industry leads employment through oyster processing, shrimping operations, and fishing-related businesses. Agriculture includes sugarcane and rice farming. Abbeville General Hospital provides healthcare jobs. Oil and gas support services offer industrial employment.
- Recreation: Palmetto Island State Park offers hiking, canoeing, and wildlife viewing in 500 acres of wetlands. The Giant Omelette Celebration each November cooks a 5,000-egg omelette in downtown square. Abbeville Cultural and Historical Alliance preserves local heritage.
- Hurricane exposure: Coastal proximity creates significant tropical storm and hurricane risk.
- Limited job diversity: Economy depends heavily on seafood and agriculture sectors.
- Flooding concerns: Low elevation and proximity to water create flood insurance requirements.
Once known as “Magic City” for its rapid early 20th-century development as a lumber boomtown, Bogalusa maintains affordable housing despite post-industrial economic challenges. Located near the Mississippi border along the Bogue Chitto River, homes for sale in Bogalusa provide nature access and and cheap housing.
- Pinecrest: Its a residential area north of downtown near Bogalusa High School featuring established neighborhoods with mature pine trees. Close to Cassidy Park’s tennis courts and swimming pool, with access to the Bogue Chitto River’s paddling opportunities.
- Oak Grove: A neighborhood southeast of city center along Highway 21 offering affordable housing stock. It’s near Southeast Louisiana Hospital and local shopping, with proximity to Cassidy Park Recreation Center.
- Forest Hill: Community in western Bogalusa featuring mix of housing ages and prices. It’s close to Columbia Street Elementary, with access to the annual Bogalusa Blues and Heritage Festival grounds celebrating the city’s rich musical roots.
- Job Market: Citizens Savings Bank anchors the financial sector as a major employer. Healthcare opportunities exist at Southeast Louisiana Hospital and local clinics. Though the decline of paper and lumber mills since 2008 severely impacted opportunities.
- Recreation: Bogalusa Blues and Heritage Festival each April celebrates the city’s musical legacy with live performances. Bogue Chitto River offers canoeing, kayaking, and fishing through scenic pine forests. Cassidy Park provides swimming pool, tennis courts, and playgrounds.
- High unemployment: At 13.2%, job scarcity reflects post-industrial economic decline.
- Poverty concerns: Low median income of $39,000 indicates widespread economic struggles.
- High Crime rates: Property crime rate higher than many comparable Louisiana cities. The overall crime rate is at 53 per 1,000 residents in Bogalusa.
Jennings embraces its Cajun heritage with authentic music venues, festivals, and French cultural touches throughout this Jeff Davis Parish city. Known for oil discovery history and outdoor recreation, homes for sale in Jennings deliver small-town hospitality and Cajun authenticity at highly accessible price points.
- Silverwood: An established neighborhood in western Jennings near Jennings High School and Ward Elementary School. Close to Louisiana Oil and Gas Park celebrating the state’s first oil well discovery.
- East Jennings: Residential area along Broadway Street near downtown featuring affordable older homes. It’s at a walking distance to historic district shops and Cajun restaurants, with proximity to Zigler Art Museum and Boudin Festival grounds too.
- City Center: It’s the historic downtown core along Main Street featuring early 20th-century commercial buildings. Immediate access to W.H. Tupper General Merchandise Museum preserving 1910s store and Jeff Davis Parish Library.
- Job Market: Oil and gas support services provide industrial employment tied to nearby energy operations. Jennings American Legion Hospital offers healthcare positions. Retail along Highway 90 and education jobs through Jeff Davis Parish Schools provide additional opportunities.
- Recreation: Louisiana Oil and Gas Park commemorates the state’s first oil well with museum exhibits and historic equipment. Zigler Art Museum features Louisiana artists and traveling exhibitions. Annual Boudin Festival celebrates Cajun cuisine with cook-offs and live music.
- Oil industry dependence: The economy is vulnerable to energy sector boom-bust cycle.
- Limited shopping: Amenities such as shopping and dining is limited. Major retail requires 45-minute drive to Lake Charles.
- Frequent rain: Annual rainfall exceeds 60 inches and causes flooding concerns in low areas.
Nicknamed “Sugar City” for its deep sugarcane industry roots, Jeanerette is one of the most affordable places to live in LA. Homes for sale in Jeanerette offers access to authentic Creole culture and 19th-century heritage at rock-bottom prices.
- Hubertville: Community north of downtown along Highway 182 featuring affordable older housing stock. It’s near Jeanerette Museum preserving local sugar industry history and Creole heritage, with access to Bayou Teche waterfront.
- Delaware: A residential area southeast of city center offering mix of housing ages and prices. Close to Jeanerette High School and within reach of Lake Fausse Pointe State Park.
- Bayside Area: These are neighborhoods along Bayou Teche’s banks featuring water-adjacent properties. Near downtown’s historic buildings and walking distance to local restaurants serving Creole cuisine.
- Job Market: Sugar industry dominates through processing plants and agricultural operations during harvest season. Retail along Highway 182 provides limited service jobs. Healthcare positions exist at small clinics, though major facilities require travel to New Iberia.
- Recreation: Jeanerette Museum showcases sugar industry artifacts, Creole heritage, and 19th-century life. Bayou Teche offers fishing, canoeing, and kayaking through cypress-lined waters. Annual Sugar Cane Festival celebrates harvest with music, food, and community gatherings.
- Extremely Limited Amenities: Minimal shopping, dining, and entertainment options in the city and would require travel to bigger cities.
- Limited Healthcare Access: There are no hospitals in the city, only small clinics. Emergency care requires 15-mile drive to New Iberia.
- Seasonal Economy: Sugar industry being the major employer creates employment instability outside harvest periods.
Franklin preserves stunning antebellum architecture along Main Street, earning recognition as one of Louisiana’s most beautiful small towns. Located along Bayou Teche with over 400 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, homes for sale in Franklin offers architectural enthusiasts period charm.
- Oak Hills: Residential area northwest of downtown featuring mid-century homes with larger lots. It’s near Franklin Senior High School and Franklin Elementary, with access to the Grevemberg House Museum.
- Cypress Pointe: It is a neighborhood along Bayou Teche offering waterfront and near-water properties. Close to City Park’s recreational facilities and walking distance to downtown’s 400+ historic structures.
- Riverbend: Community southeast of downtown near the Bayou Teche bend offering affordable housing. It offers proximity to St. Mary Parish Courthouse and local businesses, with access to the annual Franklin Heritage Festival grounds.
- Job Market: Healthcare anchors employment through Franklin Foundation Hospital. Government positions exist through St. Mary Parish administration and schools. Oil and gas support services provide industrial jobs.
- Recreation: Main Street’s 400+ National Register buildings create an outdoor architectural museum under centuries-old oaks. Grevemberg House Museum offers tours of Victorian mansion. Bayou Teche provides fishing, canoeing, and scenic paddling through historic waterway.
- Severe Economic Decline: Manufacturing losses created persistent poverty and limited opportunities.
- Flood Vulnerability: Bayou Teche location creates significant flooding risks during heavy rainfall.
- Historic Home Maintenance: Beautiful older homes require constant expensive upkeep and renovations.
Shreveport ranks as Louisiana’s third-largest city, offering urban amenities and cultural attractions. Homes for sale in Shreveport deliver genuine city living, riverboat casinos, professional sports, and arts scene access at prices unthinkable in most American cities of similar size.
- Cedar Grove: Established neighborhood in south Shreveport near Queensborough Elementary and Southwood High School. The tree-lined streets feature mid-century homes, with proximity to Querbes Park’s tennis courts and Southern Hills Golf Course.
- Summer Grove: It’s a growing residential area in southern Shreveport along Ellerbe Road offering newer construction. It’s also close Louisiana State University Shreveport campus and Line Avenue shopping corridor.
- Werner Park: This is a neighborhood near downtown featuring early 20th-century architecture and affordable housing stock. It’s at a walking distance to Independence Stadium hosting Independence Bowl college football, with proximity to the Red River District’s entertainment venues.
- Job Market: Healthcare dominates through major employers including LSU Health Shreveport, Willis-Knighton Health System, and Christus Health, collectively employing thousands. Barksdale Air Force Base provides 10,000+ military and civilian jobs.
- Recreation: R.W. Norton Art Gallery features American and European art in beautiful gardens. Sci-Port Discovery Center offers interactive science exhibits. Louisiana Boardwalk provides outlet shopping and dining along Red River. Riverboat casinos include Eldorado Resort, Sam’s Town, and Horseshoe Bossier City.
- High Crime concerns: Property and violent crime rates exceed Louisiana averages in certain areas.
- Summer heat: Extreme temperatures regularly exceed 95°F with high humidity June through August.
- Economic stagnation: Despite size, median income and wage growth lag behind national trends.
Jennings (safety score of 82) and Minden (safety score of 72) are the cheapest and safest cities in Louisiana. They offer low crime rates, family-friendly neighborhoods, and a lively, welcoming lifestyle.
Top 3 Cheapest Cities to Live in Louisiana for Young Adults
Affordable living in Louisiana isn’t just about cheap housing, its about good jobs, a fun lifestyle, and room to build your future. These cities provide all of that without the big -city price tag.
| Rank | City | Why It’s Great for Young Adults |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Shreveport | Shreveport offers a variety of job opportunities in healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, and at nearby Barksdale Air Force Base, supporting careers from administration to skilled trades. Homes for sale in the Shreveport pair well with a lively entertainment scene, including casinos and live-music venues. |
| 2. | Baton Rouge | The city provides major job opportunities in government, petrochemical and industrial plants, LSU, and a growing services sector, offering a variety of roles for entry-level candidates. Homes for sale in Baton Rouge appeal to buyers seeking both career access and the city’s vibrant culture along the Mississippi River. |
| 3. | Lafayette | Lafayette’s growing job market in healthcare, technology, education, and energy offers diverse career opportunities for professionals. Homes for sale in Lafayette attract buyers who want both career access and a vibrant community lifestyle, enriched by cultural events like Festival International de Louisiana. |
Top 3 Best Affordable Places to Live in Louisiana for Families
Louisiana is popular among families for its affordable housing, low cost of living, and strong community amenities. These three cities combine budget-friendly living with good schools and family-oriented neighborhoods.
| Rank | City | Why It’s Great for Families |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Minden | Families are drawn to Minden for its strong schools, tight-knit community, and decades of St. Jude fundraising. With kid-friendly amenities like Victory Park, the Minden Recreation Complex, and nearby Lake Bistineau, Minden provide easy access to education, recreation, and community engagement. |
| 2. | Sulphur | Near Lake Charles, it draws families with strong public schools, private options like KC Academy, and convenient access to local hospitals. With parks, Frasch Park’s playgrounds and pool, and family-friendly events like the Southwest Louisiana Zydeco Music Festival, homes for sale in Sulphur offer easy access to education, healthcare, and community amenities. |
| 3. | Bastrop | Morehouse Parish offers public and private school options within a community that values church, family connections, and small-town safety. Families can enjoy Chemin-A-Haut State Park for hiking and picnics, explore local history and art at the Snyder Museum, and shop at local businesses for family-friendly outings. |
3 Best Affordable Places to Live in Louisiana for Retirees
In the cheapest place to live in LA for retirees , you can find affordable homes, accessible healthcare, and safe communities. There are also plenty of outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, and picnics to enjoy a comfortable, active lifestyle.
| Rank | City | Why It’s Great for Retirees |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Abbeville | Abbeville offers reliable healthcare through Abbeville General Hospital and with assisted living averaging $4,383 per month and communities like Eastridge starting around $2,900. Rich Cajun culture, year-round outdoor activities and festivals, low crime, and easy access to Lafayette Airport add to its appeal for a relaxed, well-connected lifestyle. |
| 2. | Houma | Residents enjoy swamp tours, birding, and fishing with Cajun Boats and Floats kayak and canoe rentals. With golf courses, art galleries, nearby healthcare, and New Orleans hospitals within an hour, homes for sale in Houma offer a lifestyle that balances outdoor adventure, culture, and medical convenience. |
| 3. | Opelousas | Festivals like the Louisiana Cotton Festival and local gumbo cook-offs, along with Rip Van Winkle Gardens offering senior discounts, provide easy social outings. With light hiking at Jean Lafitte National Park, Mardi Gras celebrations, and affordable dining, homes for sale in Opelousas offer a lifestyle rich in culture and nature without high costs. |
3 Hidden Costs to Consider in Louisiana
Louisiana may be affordable, but some costs catch buyers off guard. Sales tax, storm insurance, and maintenance bills are three expenses you’ll want to factor in upfront along with property taxes.
- Sales Taxes: The state sales tax is about 4.45%, but local add‑ons mean combined rates can exceed 10% in some parishes, making furniture, appliances, dining out, and other setup costs noticeably higher than expected.
- Storm Cost Premium: Homeowners insurance averages about $2,038 to $3,484 annually driven largely by storm risk. Coastal or high-risk areas like Slidell or New Iberia can push rates to $7,500+ yearly.
- Maintenance Bills: Persistent heat and humidity can lead to mold, moisture damage, and higher maintenance or remediation costs for homes.
Savings Breakdown: Cheap Areas to Live in LA
Housing costs vary dramatically across Louisiana. Bastrop residents save $1,195 monthly compared to New Orleans and $556 compared to Lafayette. The following table breaks down these savings by median home price, monthly mortgage, property tax, insurance, and total monthly costs.
| City | Median Home Price | Avg. Monthly Mortgage | Insurance/taxes | Estimated Monthly Cost for a Single Person | Monthly Savings vs. Miami |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bastrop | $72,900 | $350 | $478 | $1,391 | $1,195 |
| Lafayette | $235,800 | $1,145 | $613 | $1,947 | $639 |
| New Orleans | $280,000 | $1,360 | $1,417 | $2,586 | – |
Affordable Living Beyond Louisiana
Not sure if the cheapest places in Louisiana to live will fit your budget? Here are a few surrounding states that offer affordable housing, a strong job market, and year-round festivals, just like Louisiana.
Affordable Housing
Mississippi offers affordability comparable to Louisiana, ranking among the cheapest U.S. states. Here are the cheapest cities to live in Mississippi:
- Jackson: Median home price is $145,855, rent is under $1,091, and the urban amenities are 24% below national living costs.
- Tupelo: Average home price is $244,000, median rent is $1,180, and has a and family-friendly vibe with music history and museums.
- Hattiesburg: Median home price is $186,000, rent is around $1,169, and is an university town with tech growth and community events.
Strong Job Market
Like Louisiana, Alabama offers low property and income taxes along with diverse job opportunities. These are the three cheapest places to live in Alabama:
- Huntsville: Average home price is $341,500, rent is $1,395, and is driven by aerospace, life sciences, and advanced manufacturing careers.
- Birmingham: Median home price is $160,000, rent is $1,150, and the city’s job market is experiencing dynamic growth with a 2.0% increase.
- Montgomery: Homes sell at a median price of $190,000, rent is around $1,295, and offers a range of career paths for residents while maintaining its rich historical significance.
Year-round Festivals
Tennessee shares Louisiana’s deep love for festivals and celebrations throughout the year. Here are three cheapest places to live in Tennessee:
- Memphis: Median home price is $185,000, rent is under $1,131, and is a festival powerhouse with Cooper-Young Festival, Overton Park concerts, and much more.
- Nashville: Average home price is $459,000, median rent is $2,153, is “Music City” and hosts countless festivals throughout the year, from the CMA Music Festival to smaller neighborhood celebrations.
- Knoxville: Average home price is $301,000, median rent is $1,748, and hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including the Knoxville Film Festival and the Dogwood Arts Festival.
So, Where Is the Cheapest Place to Live in Louisiana?
Bastrop, Minden, Eunice are the most affordable cities to live in Louisiana. These areas offer more than low prices; they also provide steady job markets, plenty of recreation, and a cost of living 15% lower than the national norm.
Moving to Louisiana also offers valuable tax advantages, with property taxes averaging at 0.80%. Whether you’re relocating or buying your first home, you can browse listings, compare prices, and make offers online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the least expensive place to live in Louisiana?
The cheapest place to live in Louisiana is Bastrop. It offers affordable housing at a median sale price of 75K.
» 10 Cheapest Places to Live in Louisiana: Find out the other cheapest places to live in Louisiana.
Where is the best place to live in Louisiana?
The best place to live in Louisiana is New Orleans, followed by Baton Rouge, Alexandria, Bossier City, Lafayette, Lake Charles, and Monroe.
What are the living expenses in Louisiana?
The average cost to live in Louisiana is 7.8% higher than the national average. Additionally utilities are 14% lower than the national average.
Where is the best place to retire in Louisiana on a budget?
Abbeville, Houma, and Opelousas are among the best places to retire in Louisiana on a budget. They offer affordable housing, small-town comfort, and easy access to medical care.
Which cities have the cheapest cost of living in Louisiana?
Jeanerette (75) and Franklin (82) have the cheapest cost of living in Louisiana. Jeanerette cost of living is 19% below the average, while Franklin's is 10% lower.
