Living in Louisiana

A low cost of living, a strong economy and one of the nation’s most vibrant and well-preserved cultures are just a few reasons Louisiana is a great place to call home. Louisiana is building upon this cultural advantage to create a place known for intellectual energy and creative capital.

Louisiana residents enjoy a low cost of living across the state — an average 5 percent lower than the rest of the country. Affordable housing costs coupled with some of the nation’s lowest utility rates make the state a comfortable place to live. In addition, residents are able to choose from a variety of excellent public, magnet and private school options that incorporate aggressive education development strategies and offer innovative activities such as Edible Schoolyards, a program that teaches students responsibility while integrating gardening with culinary lessons.

Forbes named Louisiana “America’s New Frontier for Business,” strengthening Louisiana’s status as one of the most attractive places in the nation for companies to do business. The state also has a variety of opportunities for working professionals. With increasing job growth across multiple industries, the presence of companies of varying sizes — ranging from technology start-ups to Fortune 500 powerhouses — and engaging networking opportunities available statewide, Louisiana professionals take advantage of the state’s diverse work environments.

With an eclectic blend of arts and music venues, more than 400 festivals held annually, and numerous opportunities to enjoy the scenic outdoors, Louisiana residents benefit from the state’s unique quality of life.

Louisiana has 7th best living environment
Chief Executive magazine named Louisiana No. 7 in the nation for best living environment in the 2014 ranking of Best & Worst States for Business.
Louisiana is the happiest state in the country
Six Louisiana cities were ranked in the top 10 happiest cities in the U.S. in 2014, according to Harvard and Vancouver School of Economics researchers.
Louisiana offers $75,000 dollars in homestead exemption
Louisiana’s homestead exemption means less money spent on taxes for your home and more money that stays in your pocket.
Louisiana has the 4th-lowest cost of living in the country
The 2013 annual state-level ACCRA cost of living index ranked Louisiana as the state with the 4th-lowest cost of living in the country based on the cost of housing, health care, groceries, transportation and other goods and services.
Louisiana has the 5th-lowest total tax burden
Louisiana residents benefit from a total tax burden — state and local taxes combined as a percentage of income — that ranks 5th lowest in the nation, according to a report by the Tax Foundation in 2015.
Louisiana welcomes 200,000 outdoor enthusiasts each year
Southwest Louisiana’s Creole Nature Trail, a 180-mile scenic byway that received an All-American Road designation, attracts more than 200,000 visitors each year.
Louisiana has the 3rd-lowest property taxes
Louisiana is one of the most affordable states in the country to own a home.
Louisiana ranks 4th in early education quality
According to a 2015 Education Week report, Louisiana ranks 4th in the nation for early education quality
Louisiana has the most engaged workers
In 2013, Gallup ranked Louisiana as the top state in the U.S. for workforce engagement, involvement and enthusiasm.

Regional Resources

Learn more about how residents live, work and play in Louisiana’s eight regions. The websites listed below feature photo galleries, videos and informative articles highlighting economic and cultural benefits for professionals and their families in each region.

Choose Baton Rouge logo

The Baton Rouge area features a variety of neighborhoods and housing styles, as well as a rich heritage steeped in history and tradition.

Choose Central Louisiana logo

Central Louisiana is well-known for its diverse landscapes and abundant outdoor areas, as well as a mix of comfortable and affordable living.

Choose Houma-Thibodaux logo

Scenic landscapes, outdoor fun and a distinctive culture are a few of the reasons why it is easy to live, work and play in Louisiana’s Bayou Region.

Choose Lafayette logo

“Joie de vivre” is more than a phrase in the Acadiana Region — it is a way of life. The region is home to a vibrant community and unique Cajun culture.

Choose Lake Charles logo

Anchored by the city of Lake Charles, Louisiana’s Southwest Region features a low cost of living and rich scenery, and provides residents with convenient access to key amenities.

Choose Monroe logo

Home to scenic outdoor areas and a variety of family-friendly festivals and events, Northeast Louisiana is emblematic of gracious Southern living.

Choose New Orleans logo

Diverse and well-rounded, Greater New Orleans offers a mix of urban and suburban communities with opportunities to enjoy arts and music.

Choose Shreveport-Bossier logo

The Shreveport-Bossier area features strong public school options, affordable homes and opportunities in high-growth industries such as digital media and software development.