Lake Charles, LA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
81,143
-0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$59,235/yr
4.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
40,742
1.5% year-over-year change

Lake Charles population

How many people live in Lake Charles

Lake Charles is home to 81,143 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.4% of Lake Charles locals are male, and 50.6% are female.

Total population
81,143
-0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.4%
40,062
Female
50.6%
41,081
Value Percent YoY change
Male 40,062 49.4% 0.1%
Female 41,081 50.6% -1.4%
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 Lake Charles is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.4% are children under 15, then 14.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.5% of the population, while another 22.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.4%
15 to 24
14.9%
25 to 44
27.5%
45 to 64
22.3%
Over 65
16.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 14,949 18.4% -2.0%
15 to 24 12,057 14.9% 0.7%
25 to 44 22,315 27.5% 1.2%
45 to 64 18,075 22.3% -2.4%
Over 65 13,747 16.9% -0.9%
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 Lake Charles, 93.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 46.1% of locals are Caucasian, 42.4% are African American and 2.7% have Asian roots. Another 0.4% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 6.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
93.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.6%
Non-citizens
3.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 76,089 93.8% -1.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,124 2.6% 14.3%
Non-citizens 2,930 3.6% 15.2%
Racial breakdown
White
46.1%
Black or African American
42.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
2.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
6.5%
Other
1.8%
Value Percent
White 37,388 46.1%
Black or African American 34,425 42.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 281 0.4%
Asian 2,221 2.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 76 0.1%
Two or more races 5,283 6.5%
Other 1,469 1.8%

Households in Lake Charles

A peek inside Lake Charles households

Lake Charles has 32,077 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 58.1% are families, while the remaining 41.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
32,077
0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
13,443
Family households
18,634
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 13,443 41.9% 2.9%
Family households 18,634 58.1% -0.8%
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 Lake Charles

The housing landscape of Lake Charles

Lake Charles's housing consists of 40,742 units, with 67.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.5% 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 2.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
40,742
1.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 27,543 67.6%
1 unit, attached 1,016 2.5%
2 units 1,865 4.6%
3 or 4 units 1,825 4.5%
5 to 9 units 2,408 5.9%
10 to 19 units 1,974 4.8%
20 to 49 units 1,663 4.1%
50 or more units 1,364 3.4%
Mobile home 1,058 2.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 26 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
1,490
57.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Lake Charles

In Lake Charles, the median construction year is 1981. About 4.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 13% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 16.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 3.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,881 4.6% 6.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,972 4.8% -11.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 5,388 13.2% -12.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4,944 12.1% 4.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 5,972 14.7% -1.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,094 10% 0.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,055 7.5% -7.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 5,310 13% 16.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 6,636 16.3% 5.1%
Built in 2020 or later 1,490 3.7% 57.0%
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.

Lake Charles occupancy rates

Out of the 32,077 occupied housing units in Lake Charles, 60.9% are owner-occupied, while 39.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 21.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
32,077
0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
12,545
Owner occupied
19,532
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 12,545 39.1% 1.2%
Owner occupied 19,532 60.9% 0.5%
Unoccupied housing units
21.3%
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.

Lake Charles housing costs

Housing costs in Lake Charles come to a median of $1,038 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,109.

Median housing costs per month
$1,038/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 Lake Charles
$1,109/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 Lake Charles

Lake Charles education at a glance

About 36.5% of the population in Lake Charles went to high school, while 25.8% pursued college studies. Another 8.2% earned an associate degree and 16.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,058 3.2% 18.9%
High school diploma 23,149 36.5% -2.7%
College diploma 16,376 25.8% 4.2%
Associate degree 5,202 8.2% -3.0%
Bachelor's degree 10,651 16.8% -0.5%
Graduate degree 5,958 9.4% -2.3%
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 Lake Charles

How much people earn in Lake Charles

The average annual household income in Lake Charles was $89,319 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $59,235, reflecting a +4.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Lake Charles
$89,319/year
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Lake Charles
$59,235/year
4.2% year-over-year change

Lake Charles income by age

In Lake Charles, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $72,588. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $66,664 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $37,004, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $50,093 in earnings. Overall, 76.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $37,004 24.0%
25 - 44 $72,588 9.9%
45 - 64 $66,664 2.6%
Over 65 $50,093 4.3%
Above poverty level
60,223
Below poverty level
18,069
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 60,223 76.9% -0.6%
Below poverty level 18,069 23.1% -1.0%

Average renter income in Lake Charles

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Lake Charles, their median household income was $35,675 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 37.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$35,675
Rent-to-income ratio
37.3%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Lake Charles

Workforce and job types in Lake Charles

The job market in Lake Charles is powered by 37,303 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 81.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 18.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.1% run their own businesses, 66% are employed by private companies, and 15.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
37,303
1.4% year-over-year change
White collar
30,443
Blue collar
6,860
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 30,443 81.6% 0.6%
Blue collar 6,860 18.4% 5.2%
Employer type
Self employees
11.1%
Private companies
66%
Governmental workers
15.2%
Not for profit companies
7.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 4,147 11.1% 18.0%
Private companies 24,622 66% -1.3%
Governmental workers 5,659 15.2% 3.2%
Not for profit companies 2,875 7.7% 1.0%
Unemployment rate
6.6%
24.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Lake Charles stands at 6.6%, 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 Lake Charles

How people get around in Lake Charles

Commuting methods vary: 90.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 33,586 90.9% 1.8%
Taxicab 207 0.6% 46.8%
Bus or trolleybus 29 0.1% -21.6%
Bicycle 106 0.3% 8.2%
Walk 886 2.4% -8.2%
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.

What is the median and average household income in Lake Charles by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
70601 30,872 12,517 $49,992 $80,380
70605 40,482 15,758 $86,015 $122,958
70607 27,080 10,016 $60,351 $72,886
70611 22,124 8,284 $101,844 $123,356
70615 12,980 4,490 $40,047 $58,646

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Lake Charles demographics 

What is the total population of Lake Charles?

Lake Charles has a total population of 81,143 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 -0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Lake Charles?

The gender ratio in Lake Charles is as follows:
  • 49.4% males (40,062 residents)
  • 50.6% females (41,081 residents)

What is the median age in Lake Charles?

The median age in Lake Charles is 36.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Lake Charles?

The age distribution in Lake Charles is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.4% (14,949 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.9% (12,057 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.5% (22,315 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.3% (18,075 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.9% (13,747 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Lake Charles?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Lake Charles is as follows:
  • White: 46.1% (37,388 residents)
  • Black or African American: 42.4% (34,425 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (281 residents)
  • Asian: 2.7% (2,221 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (76 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.5% (5,283 residents)
  • Other: 1.8% (1,469 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 93.8% of the population in Lake Charles.

How many housing units are there in Lake Charles?

There are 40,742 housing units in Lake Charles, reflecting a +1.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Lake Charles has a total of 32,077 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Lake Charles?

Lake Charles has a median household income of $59,235, representing a +4.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Lake Charles?

The employment rate is 93.4% in Lake Charles, with a workforce of 37,303 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 81.6% (30,443 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18.4% (6,860 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.1% (4,147 residents)
  • Private companies: 66% (24,622 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.2% (5,659 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.7% (2,875 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