12 Expat-Friendly Places in Louisiana That Feel Like Home

Y’all, Louisiana stole my heart faster than I could say “beignet.” Between dancing to live jazz in Lafayette and chilling on porches in New Orleans’ Bywater area, I fell hard for this state’s incredible spirit. Every morning started with chicory coffee and ended with locals sharing their favorite spots, making me wish I could stay forever.

After cruising through every parish looking for the best places in Louisiana to call home, I found 12 spots that nail that perfect mix of Southern charm and real life. Whether you’re craving city buzz or small town vibes, these places will make you feel like family from day one. And trust me, once you try the food here, you’ll never want to leave!

Best Places to Live in Louisiana

Looking for the best places to live in Louisiana? Consider Abita Springs, a charming town known for its peaceful atmosphere and scenic beauty. Explore Destrehan, a historic community with excellent amenities and proximity to New Orleans. Experience the vibrant city life in Downtown, where culture, entertainment, and business opportunities thrive. For a suburban feel with easy city access, Elmwood offers modern conveniences and a welcoming community. Whether you’re drawn to history, nature, or urban living, these are some of the best places to live in Louisiana.

• Best for small-town charm: Abita Springs
• Best for family living: Destrehan
• Best for urban explorers: Downtown
• Best for suburban tranquility: Elmwood
• Best for historic architecture: Garden District
• Best for upscale living: Inniswold
• Best for lakeside serenity: Lake Terrace & Oaks
• Best for community vibe: Oak Hills Place
• Best for rural retreats: Prairieville
• Best for suburban convenience: Shenandoah
• Best for students and young professionals: South Baton Rouge
• Best for peaceful suburbia: St. Rose

1. Abita Springs

If small-town charm, cold craft beer, and Saturday morning farmers’ markets sound like your vibe, then Abita Springs might just steal your heart. Nestled on Louisiana’s Northshore, this quirky little town is famous for its natural springs, artsy spirit, and Tammany Trace, a scenic trail perfect for biking and strolling.

Locals gather at the Abita Brew Pub for craft beers and live music, while the town’s historic streets are lined with colorful cottages, old oak trees, and a strong sense of community. Life here moves at a slower pace, but that’s exactly the appeal—it’s Louisiana living, minus the chaos.

Close enough to New Orleans for an easy trip but far enough to feel like an escape, Abita Springs is for those who want laid-back living with a little extra soul.

2. Destrehan

If you love history but need modern comforts, Destrehan offers the perfect blend of old-world charm and suburban convenience. Sitting right on the Mississippi River, this peaceful town is home to Destrehan Plantation, a stunning 18th-century estate that feels like a step back in time. But don’t let the historic setting fool you—this town is built for today’s families.

With top-rated schools, well-kept parks, and a close-knit community, Destrehan is the kind of place where neighbors still wave, and kids ride bikes in the cul-de-sac. You’ll find weekend farmers’ markets, neighborhood cookouts, and friendly local cafés where everyone seems to know your name. The town also boasts a lower crime rate and an easy commute to New Orleans, making it a fantastic choice for families who want a safe, quiet home base with city access.

3. Downtown New Orleans

Love the energy of the city? Then Downtown New Orleans is where you want to be. This isn’t just a place to live—it’s an experience. From buzzing cafés to late-night jazz clubs, every street has a story, and every weekend feels like a celebration.

You’re just steps away from the French Quarter, Bourbon Street, and world-class restaurants serving everything from beignets to crawfish étouffée. During the day, professionals fill the Warehouse District’s trendy coffee shops, while at night, live music spills onto the streets. Whether it’s parades, festivals, or an impromptu night of dancing, something exciting is always happening.

Living here means embracing fast-paced energy, rich culture, and non-stop entertainment. While it’s not the quietest spot, it’s perfect for those who thrive in a city that never slows down and always has something to offer.

4. Elmwood

Think of Elmwood as New Orleans’ relaxed suburban escape. It’s close enough to the city to enjoy the action but just far enough away to feel peaceful. Perfect for families, professionals, and anyone who wants big-city perks without big-city stress, this area blends modern convenience with suburban tranquility.

The Elmwood Shopping Center is the town’s go-to spot, packed with restaurants, big-name stores, and even an upscale movie theater. Looking for green space? Lafreniere Park is a favorite for joggers, dog walkers, and families enjoying a sunny afternoon. There’s also a thriving food scene, with everything from classic Louisiana seafood to trendy brunch cafés.

Commuting is a breeze with quick access to New Orleans, and the cost of living here is lower than in the city, making it a great alternative for those who want a bit more space.

5. Garden District

If you love historic charm, tree-lined streets, and stunning architecture, the Garden District is calling your name. This picturesque neighborhood feels like a step back in time, with mansion-lined avenues, vibrant Creole cottages, and iconic wraparound porches.

It’s not just about looks—Magazine Street is packed with boutiques, cozy cafés, and antique shops, making every stroll an adventure. Even though Bourbon Street and the French Quarter are minutes away, the Garden District is a peaceful retreat from the city’s nonstop energy.

Homes here range from grand historic estates to charming apartments, offering a mix of old-world elegance and modern comfort. Community events, walkability, and a slower pace of life make it a favorite for those who want New Orleans’ magic without the mayhem. If you crave beauty, culture, and a strong sense of place, this is where you’ll find it.

6. Inniswold

Looking for a peaceful, family-friendly neighborhood near Baton Rouge? Inniswold is a hidden gem with tree-lined streets, spacious homes, and a strong sense of community. It’s one of Louisiana’s best-kept secrets for those who want suburban tranquility without being too far from the action.

Residents enjoy top-rated schools, safe streets, and easy access to shopping and dining at Perkins Rowe and Mall of Louisiana. On weekends, you’ll find locals biking, jogging, or enjoying nearby parks. It’s a tight-knit community where neighbors actually know each other, and life moves at a comfortable pace.

Housing here includes charming Southern-style homes and modern developments, making it a great pick for families, retirees, and professionals. If you’re after a low-stress, welcoming place with big-city conveniences nearby, Inniswold is a perfect fit. With its blend of comfort, charm, and convenience, it’s easy to see why so many call it home.

7. Lake Terrace & Oaks

Want lakefront views, peaceful surroundings, and quick access to the city? Lake Terrace & Oaks is a hidden paradise just minutes from Downtown New Orleans. This upscale neighborhood offers spacious homes, quiet streets, and incredible waterfront scenery.

Life here revolves around Lake Pontchartrain. Residents enjoy sunset strolls, morning bike rides, and weekend boating adventures right in their backyard. The area is also known for great seafood restaurants, walking trails, and a laid-back, community-driven atmosphere.

While it’s a quiet retreat, you’re still close to the best of New Orleans. Homes here range from mid-century gems to modern estates, offering luxury living with a relaxed vibe. Whether you’re heading to the French Quarter for a night out or enjoying a peaceful morning on your patio, this neighborhood lets you have it all. If serene lakefront living with city convenience sounds like a dream, Lake Terrace & Oaks delivers.

8. Oak Hills Place, Louisiana

Tucked away in Baton Rouge, Oak Hills Place offers a peaceful escape with all the perks of city living. This suburban gem is known for its tree-lined streets, spacious homes, and a strong sense of community. It’s the kind of place where neighbors greet each other by name, and local events bring everyone together.

Families love Oak Hills Place for its top-rated schools, safe streets, and family-friendly atmosphere. The area boasts beautiful parks, walking trails, and easy access to Baton Rouge’s best shopping and dining. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet afternoon in your backyard or exploring nearby attractions, life here is both relaxed and convenient.

Oak Hills Place blends Southern charm with modern comforts, making it one of Louisiana’s most desirable places to live. With its welcoming community and high quality of life, it’s more than just a neighborhood—it’s a place to truly call home.

9. Prairieville

If you’re looking for that perfect mix of rural retreats and suburban convenience, Prairieville might just be your place. Located just outside Baton Rouge, this fast-growing community has everything you need—top-rated schools, safe neighborhoods, and a strong community vibe.

Life here is all about having space to breathe while still being close to city perks. Families love the highly ranked schools and parks, while young professionals appreciate the short commute to Baton Rouge. On weekends, locals hit up neighborhood farmers’ markets, explore nearby nature trails, or enjoy classic Louisiana cuisine at local eateries.

Housing in Prairieville is more affordable than in Baton Rouge, and with new developments popping up, there are plenty of options to suit different lifestyles. If you want the best of both worlds—peaceful living with easy city access—Prairieville checks all the boxes.

10. Shenandoah

Shenandoah is suburban living done right. This quiet, family-friendly community in Baton Rouge is known for its safe streets, great schools, and strong community feel. It’s the kind of place where neighbors actually know each other, and kids ride their bikes without a worry.

Despite its relaxed atmosphere, Shenandoah is far from boring. The area has plenty of parks, walking trails, and recreational centers, making it a great spot for families and outdoor lovers. Plus, with Baton Rouge just a short drive away, you get easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment without the city chaos.

Homes here range from charming starter houses to spacious family estates, and the cost of living is reasonable compared to other Baton Rouge suburbs. If you’re looking for a place with community spirit, comfort, and convenience, Shenandoah is an easy choice.

11. South Baton Rouge

The vibrant pulse of South Baton Rouge is a testament to its blend of deep-rooted tradition and progressive strides. This area is one of the best places in Louisiana for students and young professionals, offering a dynamic mix of history, culture, and modern energy.

Tree-lined streets lead to bustling shopping centers, cozy cafés, and some of the best food spots in Louisiana. LSU fans especially love the area, thanks to its proximity to Tiger Stadium—on game days, the whole neighborhood comes alive with tailgates and celebrations. But it’s not all about football; South Baton Rouge also boasts excellent schools, job opportunities, and a great quality of life.

Whether you’re looking for a charming historic home or a modern condo, South Baton Rouge offers plenty of options. If you want a place that’s full of energy, culture, and Southern hospitality, this is it.

12. St. Rose

We end this list with St. Rose, a peaceful, up-and-coming suburb just outside of New Orleans. If you want space, quiet, and a strong sense of community—without being too far from the action—this might be your spot.

St. Rose offers a mix of historic charm and modern growth. Locals love the small-town feel, where mom-and-pop shops and cozy cafés bring people together. At the same time, it’s close enough to New Orleans to enjoy the city’s excitement whenever you want.

The housing market here is affordable compared to other New Orleans suburbs, and it’s a great option for families or retirees looking for a slower pace of life. Between its welcoming vibe, affordability, and easy access to both nature and city life, St. Rose is a hidden gem that more people are starting to discover.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Best Places to Live in Louisiana                    

Eager to find out what are the best places to live in Louisiana? Here are some questions that people often ask me about where to live in the state.

What’s the nicest area of Louisiana?

Louisiana’s charm is as diverse as its landscapes, offering a variety of areas that stand out for their unique character and appeal. Here are some of the top cities in Louisiana to live:

• Garden District: With its historic mansions and oak-lined streets, this area in New Orleans is synonymous with Southern elegance.
• French Quarter: The cultural heart of New Orleans, known for its fun attractions, vibrant nightlife, colorful buildings, and live jazz.
• Baton Rouge’s Southdowns: A peaceful residential area boasting a blend of modern amenities and quiet, tree-filled neighborhoods.
• Lafayette’s River Ranch: Combining upscale living with a tight-knit community feel, this area is known for its beautiful homes and landscaped public spaces.
• Mandeville Lakefront: Offers a serene lifestyle with stunning views of Lake Pontchartrain and easy access to New Orleans.
• Shreveport’s Spring Lake: A suburban retreat with spacious homes and a family-friendly atmosphere, away from the city bustle.

Each of these areas offers a slice of Louisiana’s best, from the historic to the picturesque, catering to different preferences and lifestyles.

What are the nicest cities in Louisiana?

Louisiana is a tapestry of vibrant cities, each with its own distinct flavor. Here are some of the most livable cities in Louisiana:

• New Orleans: A melting pot of culture, unique restaurants, and unmatched festivities, especially famous for its French Quarter and Mardi Gras celebrations.
• Baton Rouge: The state capital, offering a mix of political history, academic culture with Louisiana State University, and a strong sense of community.
• Lafayette: Known as the heart of Cajun Country, it’s a hub for traditional music, local cuisine, and French-speaking Louisiana Creole culture.
• Shreveport: Blending Southern charm with a love for the arts, casinos, and music, set along the Red River.
• Lake Charles: A city that prides itself on its local festivals, Creole nature, and proximity to stunning natural reserves.
• Monroe: Offers a rich historical tapestry and is known for the Biedenharn Museum and Gardens.
• Alexandria: Nestled in the heart of Louisiana, it’s a gateway to the state’s central region with a family-friendly atmosphere.

These cities are just a few highlights of what Louisiana has to offer, each providing a unique experience that embodies the spirit of the state.

Where is the best place to live in Louisiana?

The best place to live in Louisiana can vary based on individual preferences and priorities, but here are some top contenders:

• Baton Rouge: Offers a blend of urban and suburban living with access to quality education, cultural events, and a strong job market.
• Lafayette: A haven for those who love a rich cultural scene, great food, and the vibrant music of Cajun Country.
• Mandeville: On the North Shore of Lake Pontchartrain, known for its high quality of life, excellent schools, and outdoor activities.
• Metairie: Provides a suburban feel with close proximity to New Orleans, without the hustle of city life.
• Prairieville: Boasts a growing community with a rural atmosphere, good schools, and is family-friendly.
• Shreveport: Offers affordable living with a mix of cultural attractions, and it’s a growing hub for the film industry.

Each of these places offers its own unique lifestyle, amenities, and opportunities, making them some of the best places to live in Louisiana.

Where is the best and cheapest place to live in Louisiana?

The best and cheapest place to live in Louisiana often involves a balance between affordability and quality of life. Here are some locations that strike that balance:

• Lake Charles: Known for its petrochemical industries, it offers low housing costs and a variety of recreational activities.
• Alexandria: Sits in the heart of the state, providing affordable living with a small-town feel and plenty of community events.
• Houma: Offers a low cost of living with a strong sense of community and deep cultural roots in Cajun traditions.
• Sulphur: Close to Lake Charles, it has a low cost of living and is known for its friendly community and public parks.
• Bossier City: Neighboring Shreveport, it provides affordable housing options with access to urban amenities and entertainment.

These areas are known for their reasonable living costs while still offering residents a quality lifestyle, making them some of the best and cheapest places to live in Louisiana.

What is the safest city in Louisiana?

The safest city in Louisiana is often cited as Mandeville. Situated on the North Shore of Lake Pontchartrain, Mandeville is known for:

• Low crime rates compared to national averages.
• A strong community focus on safety and family-friendly activities.
• Proximity to New Orleans while maintaining a small-town, peaceful atmosphere.
• Outdoor recreation opportunities, including the Tammany Trace for biking and walking.

Residents enjoy a tranquil lifestyle with the benefits of nearby urban conveniences, making Mandeville a top choice for safety-conscious individuals and families.

What city in Louisiana has the cheapest rent?

In Louisiana, the city with some of the most affordable rent is Alexandria. Here’s why:

• It boasts lower-than-average rental costs compared to other cities in the state.
• Alexandria offers a variety of housing options that cater to different budgets.
• The cost of living in Alexandria is generally lower, making everyday expenses more manageable.

This city can be a great choice for those looking to stretch their housing dollars further.

Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Live in Louisiana

As our tour of Louisiana’s many neighborhoods comes to a close, we’ve gone from the quiet streets of Abita Springs to the busy areas of South Baton Rouge. Each place is a different picture of life in the South, with its own mix of culture, comfort, and beauty that makes the Pelican State stand out.

Our research showed that Louisiana’s best places to live are suitable for a wide range of tastes and ways of life, from those who like the quiet of St. Rose to those who like the lively energy of the Garden District. These different communities are all connected by the state’s long past and friendly people.

If you’re thinking about moving, Louisiana has many places that offer a good quality of life. It’s a state where the cost of living doesn’t mean you have to give up good adventures. Louisiana’s spirit can be felt everywhere, from the delicious food to the sweet sounds of jazz.

Remember that the best place to live is somewhere that makes you feel like your home is a part of the neighborhood. The friendly areas in Louisiana can’t wait to be a part of your story. For that reason, whether you’re looking for a new adventure or a quiet place to relax, you might find your ideal spot in this soulful state under the shade of a live oak tree or by the Mississippi River.