Top 10 Most Affordable Cities in Louisiana

Louisiana contains a mixture of many cultures including French, African, French-Canadian, and modern American. It is famous for its unique Cajun and Creole history and food, jazz music, and, of course, its Mardi Gras festivals. If you’re looking to move to Louisiana, or build a modular home, NewHomeSource has compiled a list of the state’s 10 most affordable cities to help you find the perfect place to call home.

10 Most Affordable Cities:

1. Bastrop

Home Price to Income Ratio: 3.59%

Average Property Tax: $310

Median Household Income: $20,117

The most affordable city in Louisiana, Bastrop is located in the northeast part of the state and is known for its beautiful architecture and outdoor activities. Most locals spend their days in downtown Bastrop since it is the most happening part of the city. There are live music performances plus a variety of local businesses and restaurants. Bastrop is perfect for those wanting the small-town lifestyle in Louisiana.

2. Bogalusa

Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.75%

Average Property Tax: 334

Median Household Income: $31,976

Bogalusa, often referred to as Magic City because of its fast development, is located on the border of Louisiana and Mississippi. It is known for diverse restaurants that are mainly locally owned and for kayaking and canoeing on area waterways.

3. Minden

Home Price to Income Ratio: 3.9%

Average Property Tax: $321

Median Household Income: $24,894

The charming town of Minden has a vintage feel due to its Victorian architecture. Its red-bricked Main Street has many shops, churches and restaurants that present an old-time charm. Additionally, Minden offers opportunities for outdoor recreation due to the many trails, campsites and lakes in the area.

4. Jennings

Home Price to Income Ratio: 3.79%

Average Property Tax: $350

Median Household Income: $29,819

Jennings is a city that encompasses Cajun culture. From the local restaurants to the music venues and festivals, this Louisiana town has a unique French twist to it. Furthermore, the surrounding countryside offers activities such as birding, hunting and water sports.

5. Abbeville

Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.45%

Average Property Tax: $277

Median Household Income: $38,900

Abbeville is known for having some of the best oysters in the country. This small town is also heavily influenced by French culture and history. It has a picturesque downtown area with a beautiful gazebo, fountain, and French-inspired church. In addition, Abbeville offers prime spots for birdwatching since Louisiana is home to more than 400 bird species.

6. Opelousas

Home Price to Income Ratio: 4.33%

Average Property Tax: $275

Median Household Income: $22,646

Opelousas is Louisiana’s third-oldest city and features 20th century, Victorian and antebellum buildings. The beautiful downtown area has antique shops, boutiques, and restaurants serving delicious Cajun cuisine. Opelousas also has an intriguing history that locals can learn about at the many museums in town.

7. Crowley

Home Price to Income Ratio: 4.27%

Average Property Tax: $311

Median Household Income: $26,972

The quiet town of Crowley, located west of Lafayette, is surrounded by beautiful ponds that produce plenty of crawfish. Stunning Victorian homes and historic buildings help make this town stand out, and locals can spend their days relaxing at the local parks, watching a live show at the Grand Opera House of the South, or eating at one of the many delicious Cajun restaurants.

8. West Monroe

Home Price to Income Ratio: 3.86%

Average Property Tax: $679

Median Household Income: $34,454

West Monroe sits on the Ouachita River and offers plenty of incredible outdoor activities. From hardwood forests to wildlife refuges and scenic hiking trails, this Louisiana town has some of the most picturesque scenery in the entire state. Additionally, there are numerous places to go shopping and enjoy a nice meal with loved ones.

9. Monroe

Home Price to Income Ratio: 4.59%

Average Property Tax: $712

Median Household Income: $30,438

There are many reasons why one would want to call Monroe home. This lively town has interesting museums, opportunities for indoor and outdoor adventures, and diverse dining and shopping options. Monroe is one of the best places to visit in Louisiana and has something every local can enjoy.

10. Eunice

Home Price to Income Ratio: 3.3%

Average Property Tax: $320

Median Household Income: $34,573

Eunice, also known as the prairie Cajun capital of Louisiana, gives locals a true taste of Cajun culture. Every Saturday morning, locals grab a hot boudin sausage and coffee and then listen to live music at Savoy’s Music Center. This small Louisiana town is friendly and exudes a strong community feel.

Cities with the Best Home Price to Income Ratio

While the above list is sorted by the lowest overall cost-of-living index, the following cities have the lowest home price to income ratio, meaning you can get more home for your money.

1. Baker
   • Located just north of Baton Rouge, Baker is a great town for nature lovers. From parks and rivers to forests and wetlands, this Louisiana town offers plenty of outdoor activities.

2. Abbeville
3. Zachary
   • Zachary is also located north of Baton Rouge, making it the perfect combination of small town and metropolitan hub. It’s a lovely place to call home, with all the expected suburban amenities including museums, parks, shops and restaurants.