Louisiana demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
4,611,961
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$60,756/yr
1.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,108,902
0.7% year-over-year change

Louisiana population

How many people live in Louisiana

Louisiana is home to 4,611,961 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.9% of Louisiana locals are male, and 51.1% are female.

Total population
4,611,961
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.9%
2,256,573
Female
51.1%
2,355,388
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,256,573 48.9% -0.3%
Female 2,355,388 51.1% -0.1%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Louisiana is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.4% are children under 15, then 13.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.6% of the population, while another 24.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
38
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.4%
15 to 24
13.2%
25 to 44
26.6%
45 to 64
24.1%
Over 65
16.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 894,879 19.4% -0.9%
15 to 24 609,646 13.2% 0.3%
25 to 44 1,225,226 26.6% -0.6%
45 to 64 1,109,806 24.1% -1.2%
Over 65 772,404 16.8% 2.5%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Louisiana, 94.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 56.9% of locals are Caucasian, 30.7% are African American and 1.7% have Asian roots. Another 0.6% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 7.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.7%
Non-citizens
2.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 4,354,525 94.4% -0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 123,468 2.7% -0.4%
Non-citizens 133,968 2.9% 3.9%
Racial breakdown
White
56.9%
Black or African American
30.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
1.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
7.4%
Other
2.5%
Value Percent
White 2,625,852 56.9%
Black or African American 1,417,851 30.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 28,369 0.6%
Asian 80,052 1.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 3,067 0.1%
Two or more races 341,170 7.4%
Other 115,600 2.5%

Households in Louisiana

A peek inside Louisiana households

Louisiana has 1,804,780 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.7% are families, while the remaining 37.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,804,780
1.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
673,954
Family households
1,130,826
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 673,954 37.3% 2.8%
Family households 1,130,826 62.7% 0.3%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Louisiana

The housing landscape of Louisiana

Louisiana's housing consists of 2,108,902 units, with 65.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.8% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 12.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,108,902
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,377,991 65.3%
1 unit, attached 59,424 2.8%
2 units 80,115 3.8%
3 or 4 units 86,293 4.1%
5 to 9 units 69,710 3.3%
10 to 19 units 59,237 2.8%
20 to 49 units 45,863 2.2%
50 or more units 60,981 2.9%
Mobile home 264,776 12.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 4,512 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
38,488
66.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Louisiana

In Louisiana, the median construction year is 1983. About 6.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 11.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 129,432 6.1% -1.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 78,768 3.7% -0.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 176,416 8.4% -1.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 234,751 11.1% -1.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 357,108 16.9% -1.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 305,351 14.5% 1.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 237,061 11.2% -4.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 300,992 14.3% -0.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 250,535 11.9% 7.0%
Built in 2020 or later 38,488 1.8% 66.5%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Louisiana occupancy rates

Out of the 1,804,780 occupied housing units in Louisiana, 67.4% are owner-occupied, while 32.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 14.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,804,780
1.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
588,653
Owner occupied
1,216,127
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 588,653 32.6% 1.0%
Owner occupied 1,216,127 67.4% 1.3%
Unoccupied housing units
14.4%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Louisiana housing costs

Housing costs in Louisiana come to a median of $1,009 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,064.

Median housing costs per month
$1,009/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Louisiana
$1,064/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Louisiana

Louisiana education at a glance

About 41.7% of the population in Louisiana went to high school, while 22.4% pursued college studies. Another 6.8% earned an associate degree and 16% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 147,834 4.2% 0.8%
High school diploma 1,471,906 41.7% -0.9%
College diploma 789,711 22.4% -1.6%
Associate degree 240,351 6.8% 2.6%
Bachelor's degree 563,352 16% 1.2%
Graduate degree 315,957 9% 3.1%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Louisiana

How much people earn in Louisiana

The average annual household income in Louisiana was $87,038 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $60,756, reflecting a +1.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Louisiana
$87,038/year
1.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Louisiana
$60,756/year
1.2% year-over-year change

Louisiana income by age

In Louisiana, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $70,471. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $72,094 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $34,100, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $46,093 in earnings. Overall, 81.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $34,100 3.3%
25 - 44 $70,471 0.7%
45 - 64 $72,094 2.1%
Over 65 $46,093 1.6%
Above poverty level
3,598,225
Below poverty level
835,184
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,598,225 81.2% -0.2%
Below poverty level 835,184 18.8% 0.2%

Employment in Louisiana

Workforce and job types in Louisiana

The job market in Louisiana is powered by 2,013,003 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.8% run their own businesses, 65.6% are employed by private companies, and 16% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,013,003
-0.0% year-over-year change
White collar
1,542,303
Blue collar
470,700
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,542,303 76.6% 0.0%
Blue collar 470,700 23.4% -0.2%
Employer type
Self employees
10.8%
Private companies
65.6%
Governmental workers
16%
Not for profit companies
7.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 217,268 10.8% 0.1%
Private companies 1,319,771 65.6% -0.8%
Governmental workers 322,261 16% 1.3%
Not for profit companies 153,703 7.6% 4.2%
Unemployment rate
6.3%
-0.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Louisiana stands at 6.3%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Louisiana

How people get around in Louisiana

In Louisiana, the average commute time is 26 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 87.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
26 min
-0.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,735,708 87.3% -0.9%
Taxicab 4,172 0.2% 29.1%
Bus or trolleybus 15,077 0.8% -5.4%
Subway or elevated 286 0% N/A
Railroad 375 0% 120.6%
Ferryboat 745 0% 25.2%
Motorcycle 1,420 0.1% -2.0%
Bicycle 6,475 0.3% -0.3%
Walk 36,441 1.8% -5.0%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Louisiana demographics 

What is the total population of Louisiana?

Louisiana has a total population of 4,611,961 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by -0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Louisiana?

The gender ratio in Louisiana is as follows:
  • 48.9% males (2,256,573 residents)
  • 51.1% females (2,355,388 residents)

What is the median age in Louisiana?

The median age in Louisiana is 38.

What is the age distribution of the population in Louisiana?

The age distribution in Louisiana is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.4% (894,879 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.2% (609,646 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.6% (1,225,226 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.1% (1,109,806 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.8% (772,404 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Louisiana?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Louisiana is as follows:
  • White: 56.9% (2,625,852 residents)
  • Black or African American: 30.7% (1,417,851 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (28,369 residents)
  • Asian: 1.7% (80,052 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (3,067 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.4% (341,170 residents)
  • Other: 2.5% (115,600 residents)

What percentage of the population in Louisiana are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.4% of the population in Louisiana.

How many housing units are there in Louisiana?

There are 2,108,902 housing units in Louisiana, reflecting a +0.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Louisiana and what is the average household size?

Louisiana has a total of 1,804,780 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Louisiana?

Louisiana has a median household income of $60,756, representing a +1.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Louisiana?

The employment rate is 93.7% in Louisiana, with a workforce of 2,013,003 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.6% (1,542,303 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.4% (470,700 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.8% (217,268 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.6% (1,319,771 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16% (322,261 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.6% (153,703 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025