The 31st-largest state, you’ll find counties here in Louisiana. Instead, the state is the only place in the country to divide its areas into parishes. That’s not the only thing Louisiana does differently; the legal system is unlike in other states too.  Louisiana is also home to the world’s longest water-spanning bridge and the USA’s tallest state capitol. The laid-back lifestyle and rich diversity of the state make Louisiana a great place to live. Below are some of the best places to live in Louisiana and you can click here to read about more.

1. New Orleans
The largest city in Louisiana, New Orleans comes in at top place for its wide variety of amenities and opportunities. With a population of around 400k, there is a lot of diversity from all walks of life.  Don’t be surprised if you hear people describe New Orleans as a “Northern Caribbean city” because the inherent culture has its earliest roots in French culture. The city was founded in 1718 by explorers Iberville and Bienville then modified by infusions of residents from the Caribbean Isles, all before the Americans took over in 1803. And it’s why many say New Orleans feels more like Europe than the USA.  Known as “The Crescent City,” and, of course, “TheBig Easy,” New Orleans offers a lifestyle that is worlds apart from the hustle and bustle of most metropolitan areas. Situated amidst LakePontchartrain on the north, the Mississippi River on the south, and wetlands all around, the city is a bit of an island itself, a factor that has allowed local traditions to grow and develop during the past centuries so that NewOrleans has a quirky character all its own.  The culture is reflected in the food, known around the world for its interesting spices and seafood base. From the haute cuisine of the fine French restaurants to earthy fried oyster Po’-boys at neighborhood restaurants, the cuisine reflects the diversity and eccentricities of this port city. There’s definitely no time to feel bored.

2. Inniswold
Coming in at number two, Inniswold is part of East Baton Rouge Parish. With a population of around 5,000, the area is especially known for its lower-than-average crime rate. Residents generally enjoy a good quality of life and there are many local amenities. The city’s top-notch restaurants especially are raved about.  Try Stabb’s while you are there and opt for Hawaiian fare and go grab a bite at The Cove.  There is a great public school system there and parents rave about the low teacher/student ratio.  Some Louisiana residents choose to commute to Inniswold for the higher paying wages. With relatively short commuting times more and more arechoosing to drive to Inniswold! Interstate 10 runs to the south of the parish and the Jefferson Highway is also easy to access.  Housing prices are fairly high, at $210,600 on average. The median monthly rental costs for a two-bedroom property are $1,192. Living costs are higher than the state and national averages, but remember the old saying, “you get what you pay for”, and this is especially true living in Inniswold.

3. Brusly
The town of Brusly is located within West Baton Rouge Parish. While you may need to travel a little way to reach your favorite restaurants and shops, Brusly offers plenty right there.  Try out Louisiana BayouBistro or Athenos Cafe for a nice, tasty dinner. Grab your dog or your workout buddy and get some fresh air at one of the two local parks.  Warm weather, high income levels, low unemployment figures, and low crime rates more than make up for a few extra minutes to reach certain leisure facilities and stores, though!  Parents rave about the higher than average high school pass rate and Brusly turns out many college-bound students who often return and build up the community which is very tight-knit.  The monthly rental price comes in under the national average at $765, although there are more privately owned homes in than rented properties.

4. Scott
Lafayette Parish’s Scott has a fairly large population, of around 10,000. The median age is 31, helping to create a place to live that has high energy and a mature outlook.  Quality of life is great here despite the median income being under $49,000. Grab a bite at Fezzo’s Seafood, Steak & Oyster House that will knock your socks off or opt for more local fare at Billy’s Boudin.  There is plenty to do including tons of free events and entertainment like festivals with food and entertainment, including the world renowned Festival International, one of the largest free festivals of its kind that brings in acts from all over the world.  The area has some of the lowest living costs when compared to other popular places to live in Louisianaas well as some of the highest employment rates, with just 4.7% of thecommunity out of work. Scott’s a healthy place to live too; the air qualityscore is a low 33 helping it to earn the Clean City contest.

5. Baton Rouge
The state capital and second-largest city of Louisiana, the city is a major hubfor the medical, industrial, shipping, research, and petrochemical industries,and the technology industry is seeing rapid growth. Of course, there are manyother job opportunities as well.  The economy is booming in Baton Rouge.Not only has the city been placed in the top ten destinations around the US tostart a new business, but it has also been named as one of the top ten placesoverall for young adults. Home of Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge residents can take advantage of numeroussporting events and campus activities, many of which are free.  BatonRouge has also been listed as one of North America’s top twenty cities when itcomes to economic strength. Entrepreneurs, investors, and young professionalsshould definitely keep their eyes on Baton Rouge. Try out Parrain’s Seafood Restaurant and bring your credit card to Perkins Rowe so you can shop til you drop.

6. Youngsville
The small city of Youngsville can be found in Lafayette Parish not too far from Scott. The population of over 10,000 enjoys a suburban vibe coupled with the facilities and amenities of city life. It’s the best of both worlds.  The average age is 32, making it neither old nor young, despite the city’s youthful name. Nightlife may be somewhat lacking when compared to other cities around the state, but the opportunities for a happy family life attract a generally more settled crowd.  85% of Youngsville’s residents are property owners with higher than average household incomes and it’s considered a great place to buy a property. Locals are warm, welcoming, and friendly, and people take pride in keeping the city looking clean and tidy. Grab lunch at Zeus, a local chain serving Greek and Lebanese dishes.

7. Westminster
Not as highly ranking as Inniswold but still a great place to live, Westminster is another highly sought after area in East Baton Rouge Parish. In close proximity of the state capitol, you can benefit from easy access to the city and myriad opportunities while still maintaining a peaceful suburban home life.  Schools boast high graduation rates and with two universities close by, many students become educated and remain in their communities which strengthens the areas commerce and morale. Those seeking further education opportunities have good options. The total number of crimes is significantly lower that the rest of the state – a whopping 81% lower.  Although the high living costs may deter some people (15% higher than the state’s average figures), the median household income is significantly higher (87%) than the state average making Westminster a great choice for most. Try Albasha, a small local chain of Middle Eastern fare in a stylish setting.

8. Mandeville
Part of the greater New Orleans metropolitan area, Mandeville sits on the shores of Lake Pontchartrain in the parish of St. Tammany.  The population is a little over 12,100. Low rates of crime, high graduation rates, pleasant weather, and good household income levels combine to keep locals smiling. You won’t have to look far to find a decent selection of restaurants and shops, and you can work off all the delicious local food in one of the fitness centers. Try Nuvolari’s or Pat Gallagher’s for a delicious, upscale meal.  Plus, the vibrant city of New Orleans is within close proximity.  

9. Belle Chasse
Sitting on the edges of the Mississippi River, Belle Chasse is the biggest town in Plaquemines Parish.  With some of the state’s highest property prices for both ownership and renting, it’s not a place for a typical first home. The prices do, however, reflect how sought-after the area is, making it a terrific choice for people looking to make an upgrade to existing living arrangements.  Median rents are $1,130 per month in Belle Chasse, while the average home costs in the region of $227,200. The affluence of the area can be seen in the median annual income for a household: $66,730. When it comes to cutting loose and having some fun, Belles Chasse has great fishing spots, a shooting range, various sports facilities, a dirt-bike track, and restaurants that dish up some of the best Cajun food you’ll ever taste.  And let’s not forget the great lineup of annual celebrations too. Belle Chasse hosts Crawfish Fest, Orange Fest, Gamers Fest, and more.  Make rezzies at Zydeco’s Cajun Restaurant for dinner.  You won’t regret it!

10. Metairie
Sandwiched between New Orleans and Lake Pontchartrain, Metairie’s farming heritage set the stage for the gorgeous local parks that sit there now.  The greenery is a nice aesthetic and helps to break up the cement and tall buildings. Metairie has a sporty vibe; it’s home to the New Orleans Baby Cakes baseball team and the NFL team the New Orleans Saints train in there. There are many sports facilities to encourage a fit and healthy community. The area also has more ethnic and racial diversity than many other parts of the state and the crime rate is lower than the state average by an impressive 47%. Home prices are fairly high, at $210,900.

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