Tag: Lafayette

Acadiana’s Heart, Lafayette, Recognized as a Top Southern City

When Travel + Leisure released its rankings of the 10 best cities to live in the South, Lafayette, Louisiana secured a top spot on the list, as per this article from The Daily Advertiser. The recognition underscored the city’s balance of affordability, culture, and quality of life. The honor also highlighted how Lafayette, often regarded as the hub ofAcadiana, has become a standout destination for both economic opportunity and cultural vitality.

Prior to the successful announcement of the list, Travel + Leisure explained that the rankings were designed to showcase cities that combine reasonable living costs with comfort, entertainment, and growth potential. Lafayetteemerged as a strong contender because of its welcoming lifestyle, diverse recreation options, and accessible housing market. For new residents, these qualities helped make the city an appealing choice compared to other metropolitan areas in the South.

Lafayette has long been celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, drawing from both Cajun and Creole traditions. The city is home to world-class music festivals, dynamic nightlife, and a culinary scene that has drawn national recognition. These cultural touchstones not only attract tourists but also create a distinctive way of life for those who settle in the area. According to Travel + Leisure, these assets contributed heavily to Lafayette’s place among the South’s best cities to call home.

Housing affordability further solidified Lafayette’s ranking. Travel + Leisure reported that the average home value in Lafayette is around $219,000, while the average rent stands near $1,084. These costs remain well below many comparably sized Southern cities. Meanwhile, U.S. News & World Report emphasized that Lafayette’s median household income of $59,469 stretches further than in many parts of the country, particularly when compared to housing costs. This combination of accessible housing and sustainable income opportunities has drawn attention from families, young professionals, and retirees seeking balance in both budget and lifestyle.

The local economy has also proven resilient. According to U.S. News & World Report, Lafayette’s unemployment rateremains lower than the national average of 4.5%. This strength positioned the city as a hub of opportunity, offering both stability and pathways for career growth. Economic development, paired with cultural vibrancy, continues to reinforce Lafayette’s status as a city on the rise.

Demographics paint a picture of a balanced and multigenerational population. With approximately 125,854 residents, Lafayette shows significant diversity in age groups. Roughly 24% of the population is under 20 years old, 15% falls between the ages of 25 and 34, and 23% are in the 45–65 age range. Meanwhile, 18% of the population is over the age of 65. This distribution illustrates how Lafayette appeals to both younger generations seeking opportunity and older residents looking for stability in retirement.

The broader list of Travel + Leisure’s top Southern cities provided additional context for Lafayette’s recognition. The 2025 ranking featured Charleston, South Carolina, Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, Charlotte, North Carolina, Dallas, Texas, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Franklin, Tennessee, Richmond, Virginia, Chattanooga, Tennessee, andHuntsville, Alabama alongside Lafayette. Being named among these destinations positioned the Louisiana city among some of the region’s most celebrated and fast-growing communities.

The acknowledgment by Travel + Leisure underscored Lafayette’s ongoing evolution from a regional hub to a nationally recognized city. By offering affordable housing, a thriving job market, and unparalleled cultural depth, Lafayette continues to prove itself as a city where residents can prosper without sacrificing comfort or opportunity. As migration trends shift across the South, Lafayette’s position as one of the best places to live highlights its unique ability to combine Southern charm with long-term promise.

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Magnolia Pantry Adds Flavor and Energy to Lafayette’s Core

Downtown Lafayette welcomed a new addition with the grand opening of Magnolia Pantry at 219 E. Vermilion Street in the historic Sans Souci Building. According to this article from The Daily Advertiser, the ribbon-cutting ceremony, which was held on August 28, marked the successful launch of a project designed not only to provide a new culinary destination but also to advance the broader revitalization of the city’s downtown district.

The creation of Magnolia Pantry was the direct outcome of One Acadiana’s Small Business Challenge, a program initiated in fall 2023 to support entrepreneurial ventures and boost downtown vibrancy. This initiative offered up to $100,000 in investment capital, along with a prime lease in the Sans Souci Building, to the winning business concept. According to One Acadiana, the effort was structured as part of its Vibrant Acadiana plan, which emphasized small business development as a cornerstone of community growth.

Prior to the opening, Troy Wayman, President and CEO of One Acadiana, had explained that the Small Business Challenge was designed to strengthen both the local economy and the pedestrian-friendly atmosphere of the downtown corridor. He credited inspiration from a Leadership Exchange trip for shaping the program, which allowed local leaders to bring home innovative concepts and adapt them for Lafayette’s unique cultural environment.

Magnolia Pantry, founded by entrepreneurs Korey Champagne and Alexis Badon, emerged as the winner after a rigorous multi-round evaluation process. Their concept fused two existing local brands—Acadian Slice Pies andMagnolia Moon—into a single storefront, blending artisanal baking with unique beverages and confections. The menu featured handmade pies, lavender lemonades, organic cotton candy, snow cones, coffee, and ice cream, providing both nostalgic comfort and creative flair.

The Lafayette Public Trust Financing Authority (LPTFA) played a key role in supporting the project. Its executive director, Alex Lazard, emphasized that backing Magnolia Pantry demonstrated how public-private partnerships could spark small business growth while also revitalizing key areas of the city. He viewed the pantry’s opening as evidence that collaborative investment could create meaningful opportunities for entrepreneurs while simultaneously enriching the community at large.

The space itself received a complete renovation before the opening, outfitted with outdoor seating to encourage gathering and activity around the adjoining Parc Sans Souci. Positioned directly next to a recently developed children’s play area, the pantry quickly became a destination for families and visitors seeking both relaxation and refreshment in the heart of the city.

Kevin Blanchard, CEO of the Downtown Development Authority, described Magnolia Pantry as the kind of activation city leaders had envisioned when planning Lafayette’s downtown renewal. He noted that the proximity to the park created a natural flow between recreation and dining, giving locals a chance to enjoy pie or coffee while their children played nearby. The new business, he added, was an example of how investments in local entrepreneurship could enhance the quality of life for residents while drawing additional foot traffic to downtown.

For Champagne and Badon, the opening represented the culmination of years spent serving at Acadiana markets and festivals. They expressed gratitude that their two ventures had finally found a permanent home within Lafayette’s cultural center. Their journey from vendor tents to a brick-and-mortar establishment underscored the potential of small businesses to grow with the support of community-driven initiatives like the Small Business Challenge.

The project illustrated how a thoughtfully structured small business competition could do more than launch a single storefront. It served as a model for revitalization, inspiring civic pride while strengthening Lafayette’s position as a vibrant regional center. Magnolia Pantry, with its blend of culinary artistry and community focus, became a symbol of what was possible when public and private sectors worked together with a shared vision for the future.

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Louisiana Irises and Heritage Oaks: Moncus Park Botanical Mission

In the heart of Lafayette, Louisiana, Moncus Park has emerged as a vital green space and ecological sanctuary thanks to the guidance of its conservation director, Abbie Judice Acosta. With over 100 acres of land, including 20 acres of bottomland hardwood forest, the park offers both a refuge for native species and a public space for the community, as per this featured interview from The Advocate. 

Acosta, who holds a Master of Forestry from the University of Georgia and is a certified Acadiana Master Naturalist, has combined her academic training with professional experience at the Lafayette Consolidated Government and the Lafayette Economic Development Authority to lead Moncus Park’s conservation initiatives.

Over the past year, the park has focused heavily on trail development. Previously, much of the conservation team’s work centered on enhancing habitat for bird species affected by human activity. Acosta noted that purple martins, a migratory bird species experiencing gradual population decline, have returned in greater numbers due to targeted habitat restoration. Collaborations with organizations like Audubon Delta have allowed the team to band birds, track their migration patterns, and monitor nesting rates, contributing to regional conservation efforts beyond the park’s boundaries.

As an urban park, Moncus Park faces unique environmental challenges. Acosta emphasized that while the park cannot eliminate Lafayette’s flooding risks entirely, it can serve as a model for nature-based solutions that improve resilience. By managing stormwater with green infrastructure and native plants, the park demonstrates how landscapes can retain and filter water naturally. This approach also addresses the urban heat island effect, a phenomenon in which cities experience higher temperatures than surrounding rural areas. By planting and preserving trees, Moncus Park helps lower local temperatures and improve air quality.

The park’s proximity to the Vermilion River makes stormwater management even more critical. Positioned at the base of the watershed, Moncus Park plays a significant role in holding and filtering runoff. Native plant species are key to this effort, showcasing nature’s “superpowers” in action. Acosta has underscored the educational potential of such efforts, noting how these projects help the community learn about sustainable land management.

Among the many projects underway, Acosta expressed particular pride in the park’s work with Louisiana irises. The site is home to a growing collection of around 300 named cultivars, many of which have been donated by members of the Society for Louisiana Irises. These cultivars, developed through years of careful hybridization, reflect both the beauty and heritage of the region. The ongoing identification and cultivation of these irises help preserve Louisiana’s botanical legacy.

The preservation of Moncus Park’s heritage oaks stands as another central pillar of its conservation mission. These trees are a symbol of the land’s historic value and one of the main reasons the site was saved from development. In addition to protecting these natural landmarks, Acosta and her team have worked to design a trail network that is not only accessible and visitor-friendly, but also beneficial to local habitats.

Understanding Moncus Park’s significance requires looking beyond its modern history. Acosta pointed out that long before the University of Louisiana at Lafayette acquired the site, the land was part of a Cajun prairie—a native landscape that once covered the region. By restoring this ecosystem within the park, visitors can learn about the original appearance and function of this land.

The site’s history also includes its use by Native American tribes and early Acadian settlers. The area between the Vermilion River and Johnston Street represents a blend of natural and cultural heritage. Later, it became part of UL Lafayette’s property, famously known as “the horse farm.” Following a successful community campaign, the land was preserved and eventually evolved into the community-supported park seen today.

Moncus Park now stands as a forward-thinking space, one that honors its past while looking to the future. Through conservation strategies that reflect both ecological science and cultural heritage, the park continues to serve as an example of what urban green spaces can achieve.

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Millennials on the Move: Lafayette and its Growing Popularity

For years, millennials seeking dynamic, urban lifestyles gravitated toward cities like Seattle, Denver, and Austin. However, the tides of popularity are shifting as these traditional hubs begin to lose their appeal. Rising from the shadows of these millennial magnets, Lafayette, Louisiana, has emerged as one of the most sought-after destinations for young professionals in 2024, as per this article from Houma Today.

According to a recent report by relocation company MoveBuddha, Lafayette ranks as the third most popular city for millennials to move to in 2024. The study, titled “2024’s Move-to Hotspots with the Most Millennials,” analyzed over 200,000 relocation-related searches, uncovering 67 cities with in-to-out move ratios above 1.25 and millennial populations higher than the national average. Lafayette stood out as the only Louisiana city to make the list, claiming a prestigious spot in the top three.

Lafayette’s inclusion in the top 10 list, alongside cities like Charleston, Savannah, and Bend, highlights the growing trend of millennials migrating to mid-sized cities that offer affordability and community-oriented lifestyles.

One of Lafayette’s biggest draws for millennials is its affordability. The city’s average home price is just $213,000, making it the most affordable location among the top 10 destinations on MoveBuddha’s list. This figure stands in stark contrast to Bend, Oregon, the most expensive city in the top 10, where the average home price soars to $736,000. The staggering $522,000 price difference underscores why Lafayette is increasingly attractive to millennials who prioritize financial stability and homeownership.

For young professionals seeking a high quality of life without breaking the bank, Lafayette provides the perfect balance. Its vibrant culture, rich history, and tight-knit community contribute to its charm, offering a sense of connection often lost in larger metropolitan areas.

While cities like Lafayette and Asheville are gaining popularity, former millennial strongholds such as Austin, Denver, and Seattle are experiencing a slowdown in growth. These cities, once celebrated for their bustling job markets and cultural amenities, now see nearly as many people moving out as moving in.

Though the millennial population in these cities remains high — Austin leads with 27%, while Denver and Seattle each boast 25% — their in-to-out move ratios tell a different story. Austin’s ratio is just 1.03, while Denver and Seattle sit at 1.05 and 1.12, respectively. These numbers indicate that the cost of living, housing affordability, and urban congestion are driving millennials to seek alternative destinations.

Lafayette’s rise as a millennial hotspot speaks to a broader trend of young people prioritizing affordability, cultural vibrancy, and a slower pace of life. The city offers a rich cultural tapestry, deeply rooted in Cajun and Creole traditions, which is evident in its cuisine, music, and community festivals. Millennials relocating to Lafayette can enjoy a unique blend of modern amenities and Southern charm, making it a compelling choice for those looking to escape the high costs and fast pace of larger cities.

Moreover, Lafayette’s economic accessibility allows millennials to invest in homeownership and build a stable foundation for their futures. With its growing population of young professionals, the city is poised to continue its upward trajectory, carving out a reputation as a millennial-friendly destination.

The migration of millennials to cities like Lafayette reflects changing priorities among this demographic. As affordability, work-life balance, and community take precedence over urban sprawl and sky-high living expenses, mid-sized cities are gaining the edge over traditional millennial hubs. This shift signals not only a change in where millennials are moving but also a transformation in the type of lifestyle they value most.

Lafayette’s emergence as a top destination for millennials in 2024 is no surprise given its affordability, cultural richness, and welcoming community. As young professionals continue to leave behind the challenges of living in larger cities, Lafayette stands ready to welcome them with open arms. The city’s unique blend of accessibility and vibrancy positions it as a beacon for the millennial generation seeking a fresh start.

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Historic Renovations and New Builds Set to Elevate UL Lafayette

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette (UL Lafayette) is on the brink of a historic transformation, marked by an unprecedented wave of construction and renovation projects that will redefine its campus landscape. According to Dr. Joseph Savoie, UL Lafayette’s president, the university is currently managing more construction projects than it has since before World War II, as per this news release from the school. This bold assertion was made on August 21 during the annual State of the University address, a significant event that brings together faculty and staff to set the tone for the academic year. The fall semester had just commenced, signaling a fresh start not only for students but also for the university’s infrastructure.

Dr. Savoie emphasized that the ongoing construction projects are part of the university’s commitment to enhancing its “environment of success” for both students and staff. He stressed that the institution has a responsibility to provide facilities that not only meet but exceed the aspirations of its community. This commitment is reflected in the extensive construction and renovation efforts underway, which are being supported by approximately $600 million in combined state and private funding.

One of the most significant areas of focus is the much-needed deferred maintenance across the campus. With additional state funding, UL Lafayette is poised to make crucial improvements to its heating and cooling systems, upgrade aging elevators, and bolster security measures in several key buildings. Notably, O.K. Allen and Agnes Edwards halls, the Brook Street Annex, and the ROTC Building will be receiving new roofs, ensuring these structures remain safe and functional for years to come. Additionally, repairs to campus sidewalks and upgrades to ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) are also part of the university’s comprehensive plan to improve accessibility and safety across the campus.

In addition to these on-campus projects, the New Iberia Research Center is being upgraded to a Level 3 Biosafety Facility. This enhancement will expand the center’s research capabilities, particularly in areas that require high levels of biosecurity. Meanwhile, plans are progressing for the renovation and opening of a new lab school in University Research Park, which will be overseen by the College of Education & Human Development. This lab school will provide a cutting-edge environment for educational research and practice, further solidifying UL Lafayette’s role as a leader in innovative educational approaches.

Dr. Savoie highlighted that these extensive construction efforts are a testament to UL Lafayette’s role as a major driver of progress and economic growth in the region. He expressed confidence that the university’s facilities, already points of pride for students, parents, alumni, and community partners, will only become more impressive in the coming years. He also extended gratitude to the legislative and state government leaders, donors, and other supporters whose contributions have been instrumental in making these projects possible.

In addition to the updates on physical infrastructure, Dr. Savoie shared several other significant accomplishments during his address. He announced that UL Lafayette achieved nearly $226 million in funded research and development expenditures last year, marking the highest amount in the university’s history. This achievement underscores the university’s growing influence in research and its commitment to advancing knowledge across various disciplines.

Another historic milestone was the receipt of the largest externally funded grant in UL Lafayette’s history—a $110 million award as part of a federal and state initiative to deploy solar and battery microgrids across Louisiana. These microgrids will provide critical access to electricity and other essential services during natural disasters and other emergencies, demonstrating the university’s commitment to serving the broader community.

In summary, the ongoing and upcoming construction projects at UL Lafayette are not merely about enhancing the physical campus—they are about laying the foundation for continued academic excellence, research innovation, and community service. The university’s commitment to growth and progress is evident in every brick laid and every dollar invested, ensuring that UL Lafayette remains a beacon of opportunity and success for generations to come.

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Plateful of History: Lafayette’s Mom-and-Pop Eateries

In the heart of Lafayette, a city steeped in a rich tapestry of Creole, Cajun, and French influences, lies a collection of beloved mom-and-pop eateries that have become culinary institutions, standing the test of time and serving up not just comfort food but a slice of the region’s history. As per this article from The Daily Advertiser, these establishments, with deep roots in the community, have become fixtures in the local dining scene, each with its unique story and flavors.

One such gem is T-Coon’s, a breakfast haven founded by David Billeaud, a sixth-generation Billeaud from Broussard. With roots tracing back from France to Cajun Country, David, a proud Cajun, drew inspiration from his family’s culinary traditions. In 1993, armed with only his childhood nickname, T-Coon, he embarked on a culinary journey, creating a menu that reflected his Cajun heritage. Omelets filled with succulent pork roast, beef brisket, and homemade Louisiana smoked sausage became breakfast staples.

Over on Johnston Street, Judice Inn stands as a living testament to the timeless appeal of a good burger. Established in 1947 by brothers Alcide and Marc Judice, this family-run joint has been grilling up burgers with a secret sauce and special seasoning for over seven decades. Gerald Judice, Marc’s youngest son, proudly continues the tradition.

The simplicity of their menu, largely unchanged since the beginning, underscores their commitment to quality. Recognized as the purveyor of the “best hamburgers in town,” Judice Inn has garnered accolades from USA TODAY, Southern Living, and locals alike. The restaurant’s fame rests on a hamburger recipe seasoned to the tastes of South Louisianans, complemented by a mysterious secret sauce that elevates the flavor to legendary status.

Meanwhile, Dwyer’s Cafe, nestled in the heart of Lafayette, boasts a legacy that spans generations. Established by Stanley Dwyer in 1965, this family-owned establishment has been a culinary anchor for the Breaux Bridge-Parks area. Initially a cook for the Stinson family, Stanley, alongside his wife Yuline, ventured into entrepreneurship, creating a haven for plate lunches.

The mom and pop eatery exudes warmth, with framed photos of the late Stanley, his son Mike (who took over in 1975), and subsequent generations adorning the walls. Taylor Bergeron, the manager, emphasized the unchanged nature of Dwyer’s recipes, ensuring a consistent, homey experience for both patrons and staff. The lunch specials, ranging from smothered chicken to seafood courses, paint a vivid picture of the timeless offerings that have made Dwyer’s a cherished local haunt.

Venturing into more casual fare, mom and pop eatery,  Olde Tyme Grocery has been making po’boys famous since 1982. Originating as a neighborhood grocery, Glenn Murphree, a transplant from Chalmette near New Orleans, transformed it into a po’boy haven. Now, under the ownership of his son Russ, Olde Tyme Grocery stands as a testament to the enduring charm of a bygone era.

Russ Murphree proudly shares that the restaurant consistently ranks among the best in the state and clinched second place in a USA poll for the best po’boys in Louisiana. The Olde Tyme special, a sumptuous po’boy featuring roast beef, ham, turkey, gravy, and Swiss cheese, has become an iconic representation of their commitment to quality. The restaurant’s counter-service style and open kitchen concept add to its charm, making it a favorite among both locals and tourists.

As we delve into the histories and flavors of these Lafayette establishments, it becomes apparent that their success lies not just in the deliciousness of their offerings but in their ability to encapsulate the spirit of Acadiana. From T-Coon’s dedication to preserving Cajun authenticity to Judice Inn’s unwavering commitment to a timeless burger recipe, and Dwyer’s and Olde Tyme Grocery’s familial warmth and constancy, each restaurant tells a story that extends beyond the plate. In closing, these mom-and-pop treasures are more than just eateries—they are living testaments to the enduring power of community, heritage, and, of course, good food.

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