Cajun music was a big part of Jennings's history, but that faded when oil was discovered there in the 1900s, and in came the moneyed Americans.
Named after Jennings McComb, a contractor for Southern Pacific Railroads, Jennings, Louisiana, is 33 miles east of Lake Charles and 153 miles west of New Orleans
Cajun music was a big part of Jennings's history, but that faded when oil was discovered there in the 1900s, and in came the moneyed Americans.
Named after Jennings McComb, a contractor for Southern Pacific Railroads, Jennings, Louisiana, is 33 miles east of Lake Charles and 153 miles west of New Orleans. Formerly an area that grew rice, cotton, sweet potatoes, and corn, this small town of 10,383 residents (2010 Census) went on to enjoy the benefits derived from becoming the site of the first oil well and oil field in the state of Louisiana. And when the oil boom faded, the locals once again relied on the agricultural backbone of their homeland.
Jet off to Jennings
One great thing about Jennings is that a considerable percentage of the city is renter-occupied, meaning that you might find rental properties thin on the ground. When searching for a 2-bedroom apartment or a duplex for rent, find out whether utilities are included in the agreement.
Food will never be far from your thoughts -- the town is home to a wealth of eateries, with 20 food and drink establishments serving up everything from Cajun crab cakes to crawfish touffe. There are four grocery stores from which to buy your essential ingredients. Jennings is home to an ample array of gift and antique shops. The Big Easy influence is felt in these parts, with five entertainment establishments on your doorstep.
Nearby Neighborhoods
Check out the list below for neighborhoods to consider when moving to Jennings.
Moss Bluff: Located to the north of Lake Charles, Moss Bluff is one of the fastest growing suburbs in the lake area. The town is big on youth sports and is a magnet for campers because of the closeness to Sam Houston Jones State Park.
Youngsville: Known as the fastest growing town in the state of Louisiana, Youngsville is home to a wide variety of renters.
Prien: The beautiful waterside town of Prien is home to many lessors and lessees. Nearby Prien Lake Mall attracts shoppers from all around the area.
Upside to living in Jennings
From enjoying a round at the Jennings Golf Club to partaking in hunting and fishing to boating on Lake Charles, you'll find plenty to keep you occupied during those long, sultry summer months. There is, however, a downside to consider: a car is crucial, as the town has no public transportation facilities.
As Mardi Gras is celebrated every February in these parts, the town is renowned for its excellent Cajun and creole cuisine, enjoyed by fun-lovin' residents and tourists alike. Other attractions include a plethora of scenic wetlands, live oaks, and cypress groves and, of course, the Zigler Art Museum, where you'll find six centuries of European and American art housed under the roof of an early 20th century home. There is also the Telephone Pioneer Museum, which is dedicated to, believe it or not, the history of the telephone! Laid-back locals know they are onto a good thing with a low crime rate, is much lower than the state average, and an equally low cost of living -- less than the Louisiana average and the national average. The climate is equally desirable, with temperatures reaching a balmy high of 83 degrees Fahrenheit in July and a manageable low of 55 degrees Fahrenheit in January. The town of Jennings is home to five public schools and two private schools, and there is a post-secondary educational establishment in the area. Those looking for a home for rent in Jennings may well be surprised to find out that median rental rates are a very small percentage less than the state average and an even more impressive percentage lower than the national average.