Long before it was incorporated, the city of Morgan City was originally called Tigre Island after a group of U.S. surveyors spotted a large cat of an unknown breed.
Morgan City, Louisiana is located in both Saint Martin parish, as part of the Lafayette Metropolitan Area, and Saint Mary parish as the center of the Morgan City Statistical Area. With an estimated 2,056 people per square mile, Morgan City has been called home by famous athletes, politicians, social activists, businessmen, and entertainers. Incorporated in 1860, Morgan city is nestled on the banks of the Atchafalaya River, a 137-mile long body of water that connects to and runs south, barely west, of the great Mississippi. The community was once called Brashear City after a well-known doctor from Kentucky, Walter Brashear purchased large plots of area land and various sugar mills. In 1876, Morgan City received its current namesake after Charles Morgan, a successful steamship and railroad entrepreneur who came up with the bright idea to dredge the Atchafalaya Bay, making it possible for ocean vessels to enter the area.
Moving to Morgan City
Are you considering a move to Morgan City? If so, you'll be happy to see there are many places to rent in this wonderful, historic, and diverse community. Whether you're planning to look for apartments with paid utilities or rental homes in Morgan City, you're sure to find what you're looking for. The city has seven neighborhoods, conveniently located, with very little traffic. It's a very pleasant city where you can enjoy a night out at a delicious restaurant or relax in your apartment rental, in your pajamas, eating ice cream.
Finding Your Place in the City
When you start looking for places to rent, you'll want to figure out which features and amenities are most important to you. Do you like apartments that are dark or sunny, with lots of windows? Do you want to rent a one bedroom apartment downtown, or a small house in the suburbs? Would you rather live in a country setting or be a permanent fixture in the hustle and bustle of city life? Asking yourself these questions will help you narrow down your options.
Neighborhoods in Morgan City
Villa Apartments, one bedroom apartment rentals at Solar's Apartments, or a little one bedroom pad in the uptown section of Morgan City's Amelia neighborhood... there are many options for you to choose from. Take a closer look at the many constituent neighborhoods within this city. It's the 36th largest place in the state of Louisiana, so you're sure to find a place that is perfect for you.
Labadieville: This relaxed neighborhood costs less to live in than over 95% of comparable Louisiana neighborhoods. Many homes are newer, with building dates falling between 1970 and 1999. Residents mostly drive to work, but the area is walkable and safe for those who wish to commute by bicycle.
City Center: Do you envision a short commute? This may be the neighborhood for you. Traveling to work one way takes 15 minutes or less for more than 60% of City Center residents. This part of town is rich in culture and history. Places to rent here are 60% cheaper than homes in other neighborhoods in the state.
Bayou Vista: As a suburban neighborhood, Bayou Vista is a great place to hunt for a house rental; but if you find the rental home of your dreams, act fast! The vacancy rate in this neighborhood is very low.
Amelia / Siracusaville: The rural neighborhood of Amelia is a great place to search for a rental fast. There is a low average vacancy rate in this neighborhood, with more than half of the property classified as mobile homes. The neighborhood is walkable and boasts a short average commute time, similar to other Morgan City neighborhoods.
6th Street/ Brashear Avenue: This trendy, urban neighborhood is filled with culture and convenience. More than half of 6th and Brashear residents commute less than 15 minutes to work, one way. Though it is one of the most walkable neighborhoods in the city, 3/4 of the population travels to and from daily activities by car.
Stephenville / Bayou Geneve: The most expensive area in Morgan City, this remote neighborhood has a fairly high vacancy rate, which is typical for a vacation area. It has one of the lowest populations in the U.S, 98% lower to be exact, with an approximate eight people per square mile.
Roderick Street / Route 182: Close to many amenities, this neighborhood has a few added bonuses, including high walkability and a short commute for the majority of its residents.
Living in Morgan City
Another bit of strange, interesting history that makes this community unique: A special breed of blackberry was developed by Morgan City's B.M. Young in 1905. A cross of two different, highly delicious strains, Young's "Youngberry" became more popular than the most sought-after blackberry of the time, a renowned strain straight from sunny California.
Home to the hilariously and awkwardly named Louisiana Shrimp and Petroleum Festival, an annual local gathering that has been bringing people to the area every Labor Day weekend since 1935, Morgan City provides visitors and residents with an unforgettable supply of things to do. Learn tennis, brush up on your arts and crafts, or practice your doggy-paddle in the pool at the local recreation center. Enjoy all of the outdoor activities at Lake End Park, take a swamp tour, or make faces at the monkeys in the wildlife zoo. Boredom will not come easily in Morgan City.
Morgan City's Many Amenities
Morgan City offers an eclectic mix of small businesses, big box stores, and services. No matter which neighborhood you call home, you can conveniently access grocery stores, flower shops, pharmacies, department stores, clothing stores, thrift stores, restaurants, healthcare facilities, hardware stores, specialty foods, and so much more. The city offers a library, coffee shops, entertainment, parks and recreation, and convenience stores. Whatever your need, it can be met. Take some time to explore the city and find your favorite spots.
Getting Around
The average resident of Morgan City has a commute to work of 17 minutes. Most people drive, with a handful of commuters choosing to carpool. A very small segment of the population walks to work. Distance traveling is a cinch from Morgan City. There are two Amtrak stations and an airport just 30 miles away. For a different form of travel close-by, check out the Houseboat Rental shop!
Enjoy Louisiana Life
Whether you choose to explore the bayou, join the Atchafalaya Bit and Bridle Club, go to a rodeo, check out a Morgan City Community Concert, or just grab coffee and a newspaper at your local store, you'll soon settle down into a comfortable lifestyle in beautiful southern Louisiana.