Best Affordable Places to Live in Louisiana in 2025

If you have a big-city job and a small budget, consider driving 25 minutes north to the Baton Rouge suburb of Zachary. No stranger to best-of lists, this small, friendly town boasts well-kept parks and a calendar full of events, including festivals and the weekly farmers’ market. Parents may appreciate the fact that the schools receive high marks.

Jennings is conveniently located on Interstate 10 and U.S. Highway 90, midway between Lafayette and Lake Charles. This charming small town has a decidedly French feel, thanks to Cajun roots that influence everything from the local restaurants to music venues and festivals. Jennings is also known as the “Cradle of Louisiana Oil,” since it’s home to the state’s first oil well, and the oil and gas industry still plays a major role in the local economy today.

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You’d be hard-pressed to find a more affordable place in Louisiana than Bastrop. But don’t worry, the low cost of living doesn’t require sacrificing a high quality of life. In fact, this northeast town is known for its stunning architecture, abundance of outdoor activities, and easy way of life.

Want to raise your crew away from the hustle and bustle of Baton Rouge? Consider Zachary. Located a short 25-minute drive from the capital city, this small town boasts well-maintained community parks and playgrounds. Parents may be drawn to its top-performing schools.

As you start shopping for a home, what goes into qualifying for a home loan can be confusing. Help take out some of the mystery surrounding the process by reading up on tips to qualify for a mortgage.

Families in Jennings don’t have to go far to find things to do — the town is full of kid-friendly activities. The playgrounds, walking track, and 10-acre fishing pond of the Louisiana Oil and Gas Park are popular attractions. On chilly or rainy days, you can take your crew to visit the baby alligators at Gator Chateau, soak in the world-class art collection in the Zigler Museum, or catch a live country music variety show at the Strand Theatre.

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Far from New Orleans in both location and culture, Shreveport’s culture, food, and street names reflect its close proximity to Arkansas and Texas. While Little Rock and Dallas make for good day trips, you’d be forgiven for not wanting to leave this vibrant city. Known for its jazz and blues scene, diverse dining options, and important historical sites, Shreveport offers more than enough to keep families of all ages entertained.

Maybe you want to be within easy driving distance of New Orleans, but far enough away to get more space and cheaper housing. If so, Elmwood might be the place for you.

When you’re ready to get serious about home buying, a good place to start is learning about the different types of mortgage loans to make sure you get the one that fits your needs.

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There was a time when Metairie was where city dwellers moved as they got older and started a family. But these days, the sprawling New Orleans suburb is attracting younger residents right off the bat with noteworthy restaurants, a revitalized lakefront area, and a convenient location.

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When most people picture the graceful oaks, spicy food, and upbeat music of Cajun Country, Lafayette often comes to mind. But this unique city isn’t just the stuff of travel books, it’s also a good place for young adults to call home. The University of Louisiana at Lafayette is in the center of town, and graduates often decide to stay and work here. Not surprisingly, Lafayette residents are on the younger side — the median age is 37.3 — and three quarters of households don’t have children.

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Retiring doesn’t have to mean slowing down, especially if you decide to settle in Bastrop. This bucolic town is known for its outdoor adventures, thanks to its proximity to the Upper Ouachita National Wildlife Refuge and the Georgia Pacific Wildlife Management Center.

Retirees living in River Ridge, a bedroom community east of New Orleans, enjoy the kind of amenities found in larger towns. Community parks play host to local sporting teams, and family-owned restaurants, upscale boutiques, and grocery stores are sprinkled throughout town. The New Orleans International Airport is also within easy reach, a bonus when you’re hopping on a plane to visit friends and family.

Tucked away from New Orleans, but within 25 miles of two hospitals, Bogalusa is the kind of place where you can truly unwind. Pass an afternoon enjoying the shops, art galleries, and restaurants lining downtown. Or enjoy the best of what Mother Nature has to offer in the beautiful Bogue Chitto National Wildlife refuge.

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Mandeville’s prime location provides easy access to Lake Pontchartrain, where fishing and boating opportunities abound. When it’s time to raise the anchor and head back to shore, you can grab a bite at one of the many top-flight restaurants or take in the million-dollar views along the lakefront.

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Grab your rod and reel: Lake Charles is a well-established fishing destination, where anglers try their luck in Calcasieu Lake, Holly Beach, and (of course) Lake Charles. And because southwestern Louisiana enjoys mild winters, you can cast your line year-round. After a day on the boat or shore, take a load off at one of the many restaurants in this fast-growing city.

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Bayou Teche winds through the beautiful town of Breaux Bridge and plays host to activities and events throughout the year. If you prefer lots of outdoor action, you can get your fill of hunting, paddling, bird watching, and fishing. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, load up on the local specialty: crawfish. In fact, Breaux Bridge’s crawfish farming and cooking is so renowned, the town was officially designated the crawfish capital of the world.