The Best Places to Live in Louisiana

Louisiana has many spectacular cities to choose from. Compared to the U.S. overall, the state’s unemployment rate is low, and housing is affordable. Soul food, Southern hospitality, and rich culture and history infuse the entire state. So how do you decide where to live? We’ve picked a few cities we love and highlighted them here.

Bossier City is across the Red River from Shreveport and has a population of approximately 63,000 people. One of the best places to live in Louisiana, Bossier City boasts a stronger job market than cities of similar size. Unemployment here was just 3.1% as of October 2022—lower than Louisiana’s rate of 3.3% and the U.S. rate of 3.7%. Real estate values are not as affordable as in other Louisiana cities, but they are appreciating much faster. For example, Redfin reported that Baton Rouge’s home values decreased 4.6% in the last year, New Orleans’ decreased 1.4%, and Shreveport’s increased 5.3%—while Bossier City’s rose a whopping 26.7%. If you’re a homebuyer seeking rapid appreciation, Bossier City is for you.

Need more convincing? Money magazine has named Bossier City the Best Place to Live in Louisiana two years in a row. 

Across the river, Shreveport is a city of about 184,000 people. It’s similar to Bossier City—but unique enough that it deserves its own spotlight. Shreveport is the better pick for you if you want to live in a larger city with an exciting nightlife scene and more affordable real estate. And while Louisiana has a high crime rate overall, local initiatives to reduce crime in Shreveport have been successful, and the city is becoming safer. You’ll also find some of Louisiana’s most famous art galleries and museums in Shreveport in addition to some of the best restaurants in the state.

Think Shreveport could be right for you?

Prefer small-town living? Try Benton. This charming town is the parish seat of Bossier Parish and has a population of about 2,100 people. Living here, you’ll enjoy a slower pace of life without sacrificing access to big city amenities. Shreveport-Bossier City is about a 20-minute drive away, so you can have the best of a small-town, tight-knit community in addition to the employment opportunities and world-class dining and entertainment available in SBC. Benton’s top highlights include very affordable real estate, peace and privacy, and great access to outdoor activities. Don’t miss Cypress Black Bayou—Benton’s full-service recreation area with swimming, camping, cabins for rent, fishing piers, a zoo, and more.

Niche.com ranks Benton in the Top 10 Best Places to Buy a House in Louisiana—so what are you waiting for?

If Benton isn’t for you, Haughton might be exactly what you’re looking for. Haughton is even closer to SBC and has a population more than double Benton’s at around 4,500 people. This town offers unique experiences you won’t find anywhere else, including the Touchstone Wildlife & Art Museum and Mahaffey Farms. Additionally, this desirable area offers lush lots and beautiful houses. The real estate market here is considered competitive, with November’s home prices up 5.8% year-over-year and some houses receiving multiple offers before selling.

Is Haughton the place you want to call home?

If so, let us know. We’ll take your must-have list and turn it into your dream home in your favorite location right away.

If you haven’t decided just yet, get in touch and tell us your needs. The Tammi Montgomery Real Estate Experts are the #1 real estate team in Louisiana—and we didn’t get there by accident. Tell us what you’re looking for, and our local experts will help you decide which location is right for you. Fill out the form to get started.

Need help deciding where to live in Louisiana? Let us help! Schedule a call today to find out how we can assist you!