10 Largest Cities in Louisiana [2024]
Louisiana, the Bayou State offers a unique blend of Southern charm, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you're drawn to the excitement of New Orleans' Mardi Gras festivities, the youthful energy of a college town like Baton Rouge, or the slower pace of life in Cajun Country, Louisiana has a city to suit your style. But beyond the undeniable allure, practical considerations like finding the perfect place to live are essential.
This blog is your one-stop shop for navigating the rental landscape in Louisiana's 10 biggest cities. We'll delve into each city's unique character, explore the range of available housing options, and unpack the nitty-gritty details like average rent prices, transportation options, and rental availability. So, buckle up (or grab your bike helmet!), because we're taking a deep dive into the world of renting in Louisiana!
All of the rental data included here comes from current listings on our website, which are linked in the descriptions of each city. Transit scores come from walkscore.com and census information comes directly from the U.S. Census website.
Largest Cities in Louisiana
Populations of the 10 Largest Municipalities in Louisiana
| Name | Population |
|---|---|
| New Orleans | 364,136 |
| Baton Rouge | 219,573 |
| Shreveport | 177,959 |
| Lafayette | 121,467 |
| Lake Charles | 79,633 |
| Kenner | 63,333 |
| Bossier City | 62,738 |
| Monroe | 46,616 |
| Alexandria | 43,466 |
| Houma | 31,733 |
1. New Orleans
- Population: 364,136
- Average one-bedroom rent: $1,781
- Number of currently available units: 568
- Walk score: 58
- Transit score: 44
- Bike score: 66
New Orleans, famous for its vibrant culture, historic architecture, and lively festivals, is also Louisiana's largest city. While the average rent here sits above the national average, explore neighborhoods outside the French Quarter and Central Business District for more affordable options. Consider areas like Treme or Mid-City for a rich cultural experience without the premium price tag.
The city boasts a well-developed streetcar system, making it easy to explore iconic neighborhoods and landmarks.Supplement your public transit options with a bicycle – the city is relatively flat and offers numerous bike lanes. While ride-hailing services are available, keep in mind traffic congestion can sometimes impact their efficiency. When it comes to finding an apartment, look for one near a streetcar line or a designated bike route for maximum convenience.
2. Baton Rouge
- Population: 219,573
- Average one-bedroom rent: $1,065
- Number of currently available units: 139
- Walk score: 39
- Transit score: n/a
- Bike score: 44
Steeped in Southern charm and brimming with a youthful energy thanks to Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge offers renters a dynamic city experience. Beyond the allure of game days and a thriving job market, renters will find a wider range of affordability compared to New Orleans, with options for most budgets. Explore areas like Mid City, known for its eclectic mix of restaurants and shops, or Gardere, a historic neighborhood with a strong sense of community. Both offer a central location with easy access to LSU and the city's vibrant core.
Baton Rouge boasts a well-developed public bus system, making it easy to navigate the city and explore its diverse neighborhoods. Supplementing your public transit options is a breeze, with many apartment complexes offering bike storage. The city has also invested in creating dedicated bike lanes, making cycling a viable option for getting around. While a car is convenient for exploring the surrounding areas and enjoying weekend getaways, it's not always necessary for daily commutes within the city.
3. Shreveport
- Population: 177,959
- Starting one-bedroom rent: $415
- Number of currently available units: 110
- Walk score: 31
- Transit score: n/a
- Bike score: 37
Shreveport, Louisiana's third-largest city, offers a blend of affordability, Southern hospitality, and a growing cultural scene. Renters will find a comfortable cost of living compared to other major cities in the state, with a variety of housing options to suit different needs and budgets. Explore vibrant neighborhoods like South Highlands, known for its trendy shops and local restaurants, or embrace the historic charm of Broadmoor with its beautiful tree-lined streets and architectural gems. Both offer a strong sense of community and convenient access to the city's core.
Getting around Shreveport is a breeze, with a well-developed network of highways and interstates making it a car-centric city. However, don't underestimate the convenience of public transportation. The SporTran bus system connects major areas within the city, and many apartment complexes offer designated bus stops for added ease.
4. Lafayette
- Population: 121,467
- Starting one-bedroom rent: $625
- Number of currently available units: 103
- Walk score: 42
- Transit score: n/a
- Bike score: 47
Nicknamed the "Hub City" for its central location in southwest Louisiana, Lafayette offers Cajun culture, buzzing nightlife, and a thriving economy. Renters will find a range of housing options, from charming historic bungalows to modern apartment complexes, all at generally more affordable prices compared to some other major Louisiana cities. Explore dynamic neighborhoods like River Ranch, known for its upscale restaurants and family-friendly atmosphere.
Lafayette boasts a convenient public transportation system, with the Lafayette Consolidated Government Transit System (LCG) providing bus routes across the city. For a more active lifestyle, the city features numerous bike paths and enjoys a relatively flat terrain, making cycling a popular option. While a car offers flexibility for exploring the surrounding Cajun Country and its hidden gems, Lafayette's commitment to public transportation makes it a viable option for daily commutes within city limits.
5. Lake Charles
- Population: 79,633
- Starting one-bedroom rent: $675
- Number of currently available units: 107
- Walk score: 37
- Transit score: n/a
- Bike score: 44
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural richness of Lake Charles, Louisiana. This dynamic city on the banks of Calcasieu Lake offers a relaxed pace of life with plenty of outdoor activities alongside a vibrant casino scene. Renters will find a comfortable cost of living with a variety of housing options, from cozy single-family homes to modern apartment complexes.
Getting around Lake Charles is convenient, with a well-maintained road network and a public transportation system operated by Lake Charles Transit (LCT) offering bus routes across the city. The city also boasts numerous bike paths along the scenic Calcasieu River and surrounding areas, perfect for enjoying the outdoors on two wheels.
6. Kenner
- Population: 63,333
- Starting one-bedroom rent: $1,470
- Number of currently available units: 324
- Walk score: 46
- Transit score: n/a
- Bike score: 46
Kenner, Louisiana, situated right next door to New Orleans, offers renters a unique advantage: big city excitement with a suburban feel. Renters will find a wide range of housing options, from family-friendly neighborhoods with spacious apartments to convenient condo complexes near the airport. Explore established areas like Kenner Pines, known for its peaceful atmosphere and excellent schools, or discover the vibrant energy of Chateau Estates, home to numerous restaurants and shops.
Public transportation in Kenner is readily available, with the Jefferson Parish Transit (JPT) bus system connecting residents to key destinations within the city and neighboring areas. Kenner's proximity to New Orleans also allows for easy access to the city's well-developed streetcar system, perfect for exploring the French Quarter and other iconic neighborhoods. Still, a car is a more convenient for navigating Kenner's spread-out layout and exploring nearby attractions.
7. Bossier City
- Population: 62,738
- Average one-bedroom rent: $1,155
- Number of currently available units: 117
- Walk score: 31
- Transit score: n/a
- Bike score: 39
Nestled directly across the Red River from Shreveport, Bossier City, Louisiana, offers renters a vibrant and friendly community with a strong sense of place. The cost of living here is generally more affordable compared to its neighbor, with a variety of housing options to suit different needs and budgets. Explore dynamic areas like East Bossier, known for its booming retail scene and family-friendly atmosphere, or delve into the historic charm of Bossier Historic District with its beautifully preserved homes and local shops.
The SporTran bus system, which also serves Shreveport, offers routes connecting major areas within Bossier City. Biking is another option, with the city investing in creating dedicated bike lanes on some major roads. Like other cities here, however, a car is still best for reliable transportation in Bossier City.
8. Monroe
- Population: 46,616
- Starting one-bedroom rent: $395
- Number of currently available units: 36
- Walk score: 32
- Transit score: n/a
- Bike score: 41
Monroe, Louisiana, offers renters a charming and affordable place to call home. The cost of living here is significantly lower compared to other major cities in the state, with a wide range of housing options to suit various needs and budgets. Explore dynamic neighborhoods like Garden District, known for its historic mansions and tree-lined streets, or embrace the youthful energy surrounding ULM (University of Louisiana Monroe) with its trendy cafes and student-oriented apartments.
Getting around Monroe is achievable with and without a car. The city operates a public transportation system, Monroe Transit, with bus routes connecting major areas. Biking is also a viable option, with Monroe featuring dedicated bike lanes on some roads and a relatively flat terrain. While a car offers flexibility for exploring the surrounding Duck Blind nature area and other regional attractions, Monroe's public transportation options make it possible to navigate daily commutes within the city limits.
9. Alexandria
- Population: 43,466
- Starting two-bedroom rent: $850
- Number of currently available units: 3
- Walk score: 30
- Transit score: n/a
- Bike score: 41
Alexandria, Louisiana, steeped in history and culture, offers renters a dynamic blend of affordability and Southern charm. Explore vibrant areas like Alexandria's Arts District, known for its art galleries, museums, and lively festivals, or delve into the rich heritage of Alexandria's historic downtown with its beautifully restored buildings and local shops.
The city has a public transportation system, Alexandria Transit, with bus routes connecting key destinations within city limits. Biking is also a popular option, with Alexandria boasting dedicated bike paths along the scenic Red River and throughout the city. Most people get around by car, though, and a car also provides flexibility for exploring nearby Kisatchie National Forest and other natural wonders.
10. Houma
- Population: 31,733
- Starting one-bedroom rent: $800
- Number of currently available units: 16
- Walk score: 40
- Transit score: n/a
- Bike score: 44
Houma, Louisiana, situated in the heart of Cajun Country, offers renters abundant natural beauty and a slower pace of life. Downtown Houma is known for its historic buildings and thriving restaurant scene, while the natural beauty of areas bordering Houma Navigational Canal offer stunning water views and abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation.
While Houma is a car-dependent city due to its spread-out nature, Good Earth Transit can help with daily commutes within the main city limits. Biking is a possibility for shorter trips, but the generally flat terrain makes it more manageable than in hillier areas.
Need Help Finding an Apartment in Louisiana?
Louisiana's largest cities may not be quite as big as some other states, but they have something to offer every renter. Whether you prioritize affordability, outdoor adventure, access to culture, or a vibrant community atmosphere, there's a big Louisiana city (or town) waiting to welcome you.
Ready to find your perfect Louisiana apartment? Head over to our matching tool so you can narrow down your options and find an apartment in Louisiana that ticks all your boxes. Happy hunting!
FAQs about the Largest Cities in Louisiana
Where do most people live in Louisiana?
Most people in Louisiana live in the southern part of the state, along the Mississippi River and the Gulf Coast. This area includes metropolitan areas like New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport, and Lafayette, which offer a wider range of job opportunities, educational institutions, and cultural attractions compared to the northern regions. The warmer climate and proximity to water bodies also contribute to the higher population density in southern Louisiana.
What are the top states moving to Louisiana?
According to Apartment List's 2024 renter migration report, the top cities move from into New Orleans, LA are Mobile, AL; Houston, TX; and Denver, Colorado.
Why is Louisiana becoming so popular?
It's important to note that there isn't a definitive consensus on Louisiana experiencing a surge in popularity. However, there are some trends that might be fueling a perception of increased interest:
- Affordability: Compared to some coastal states, Louisiana offers a relatively lower cost of living, particularly in housing. This could be attracting people seeking more affordable places to live.
- Unique Culture: Louisiana's vibrant Cajun and Creole cultures, with their distinct music, food, and festivals, might be drawing visitors and potential residents interested in a unique and flavorful lifestyle.
- Natural Beauty: From the swamps and bayous to the beaches and barrier islands, Louisiana boasts diverse natural beauty that could be appealing to outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
- Economic Growth: While not a uniform trend across the state, some areas are experiencing economic growth, particularly in sectors like healthcare, manufacturing, and energy. This could be creating new job opportunities and attracting a workforce.
It's also possible that media portrayals or social media trends are creating a perception of growing popularity in Louisiana.
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