The Most Unpopular Places to Live in Louisiana: Why Residents Are Leaving

To live or not to live in louisianaPhoto byJen Terry canva

Louisiana has its share of towns that people tend to avoid living in. Various factors contribute to the reluctance, including high crime rates, poor job prospects, and natural disaster risks. Depending on who you talk to and what area they live in, this list will vary. I put together the most frequently named cities where residents and potential newcomers might think twice before settling down.

Baton Rouge

As the state capital, Baton Rouge may seem like an attractive place to live, but it struggles with high crime rates and poverty levels. The city faces a significant crime problem, with violent and property crimes above the national average. Additionally, economic opportunities are limited, leading to a challenging environment for families and young professionals.

New Orleans East

While New Orleans is famous for its music, food, and festivals, the eastern part of the city is less celebrated. New Orleans East has suffered from a slow recovery post-Hurricane Katrina, leading to abandoned properties, high crime rates, and inadequate infrastructure. Residents often face long commutes and limited access to essential services.

Monroe

Monroe, located in northern Louisiana, struggles with economic stagnation and high crime rates. The job market is weak, with limited opportunities outside of the retail and service industries. Additionally, Monroe has a high poverty rate, affecting the overall quality of life and making it a less desirable place to live.

Alexandria

Central Louisiana’s Alexandria faces many challenges, including a high crime rate and limited economic growth. The city's infrastructure is aging, and public services are often underfunded. Residents report concerns about safety and the lack of recreational activities, making Alexandria less appealing to potential residents.

Shreveport

Shreveport, once a bustling hub for the oil industry, now grapples with economic decline and a high crime rate. The city has struggled to attract new businesses and investment, leading to a stagnant job market. Additionally, Shreveport’s public schools face significant challenges, further deterring families from moving to the area.

Bogalusa

Bogalusa, a small town near the Mississippi border, faces significant economic and social issues. The town has a high poverty rate, limited job opportunities, and a declining population. Additionally, Bogalusa’s public schools are underfunded, and the crime rate is higher than the state average.

Opelousas

Opelousas, known for its Creole heritage, faces modern challenges that overshadow its cultural richness. The town has a high crime rate, struggling schools, and limited economic opportunities. These factors contribute to the town’s declining population and deter new residents from moving in.

Bastrop

Bastrop, located in northeastern Louisiana, suffers from economic decline and high crime rates. The town's once-thriving paper mill industry has largely disappeared, leaving behind high unemployment and limited prospects for young people. The lack of amenities and recreational activities also makes Bastrop less attractive to potential residents.

Natchitoches

Despite its historical charm, Natchitoches faces economic challenges and a high crime rate. The town's economy relies heavily on tourism and education, but opportunities outside these sectors are limited. Additionally, Natchitoches struggles with inadequate infrastructure and public services, affecting the overall quality of life.

While Louisiana has many vibrant and appealing places to live, several towns face significant challenges that make them less attractive to potential residents. High crime rates, poor economic prospects, and infrastructure issues are common themes among these towns. However, efforts to address these problems are ongoing, and with the right investments and policies, these towns could see a brighter future.

Why do I live herePhoto byJen Terry canva

Cunningham, Joe CunninghamJoe. “Moving to Louisiana? Here Are the Top 10 Cities to Avoid.” KPEL 96.5, 20 June 2024, kpel965.com/louisiana-the-top-10-cities-to-avoid/. Accessed 21 July 2024.

Property Club. “Most Dangerous Cities in Louisiana.” PropertyClub, 2024, propertyclub.nyc/article/most-dangerous-cities-in-louisiana. Accessed 21 July 2024.

Stacker. “Cities in Louisiana with the Most People Living in Poverty — Including 4 in Acadiana.” KLFY.com, 20 Jan. 2022, www.klfy.com/local/cities-in-louisiana-with-the-most-people-living-in-poverty-including-4-in-acadiana/. Accessed 21 July 2024.