Natchitoches, LA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
17,577
-0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$37,133/yr
-4.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,284
1.4% year-over-year change

Natchitoches population

How many people live in Natchitoches

Natchitoches is home to 17,577 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 45.7% of Natchitoches locals are male, and 54.3% are female.

Total population
17,577
-0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
45.7%
8,031
Female
54.3%
9,546
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,031 45.7% -3.4%
Female 9,546 54.3% 1.9%
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 Natchitoches is 26, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.5% are children under 15, then 30.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.5% of the population, while another 16.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
26.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.5%
15 to 24
30.2%
25 to 44
22.5%
45 to 64
16.1%
Over 65
13.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,081 17.5% -7.3%
15 to 24 5,313 30.2% 3.6%
25 to 44 3,950 22.5% -2.5%
45 to 64 2,832 16.1% -0.5%
Over 65 2,401 13.7% 3.0%
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 Natchitoches, 97.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 34.9% of locals are Caucasian, 56.2% are African American and 0.7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.7%
Non-citizens
1.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 17,069 97.1% -0.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 304 1.7% -1.0%
Non-citizens 204 1.2% 12.7%
Racial breakdown
White
34.9%
Black or African American
56.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6%
Other
1.8%
Value Percent
White 6,138 34.9%
Black or African American 9,879 56.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 73 0.4%
Asian 125 0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 2 0%
Two or more races 1,048 6%
Other 312 1.8%

Households in Natchitoches

A peek inside Natchitoches households

Natchitoches has 6,691 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 46.8% are families, while the remaining 53.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,691
3.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,562
Family households
3,129
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,562 53.2% 5.5%
Family households 3,129 46.8% 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 Natchitoches

The housing landscape of Natchitoches

Natchitoches's housing consists of 8,284 units, with 52.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.1% 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 6.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,284
1.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,339 52.4%
1 unit, attached 426 5.1%
2 units 531 6.4%
3 or 4 units 608 7.3%
5 to 9 units 597 7.2%
10 to 19 units 365 4.4%
20 to 49 units 293 3.5%
50 or more units 531 6.4%
Mobile home 547 6.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 47 0.6%
Homes built since 2020
74
37.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Natchitoches

In Natchitoches, the median construction year is 1979. About 9.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 16% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 789 9.5% 5.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 212 2.6% -11.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 597 7.2% -1.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 733 8.8% -7.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,953 23.6% 1.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,179 14.2% -7.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 708 8.6% 12.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,325 16% 6.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 714 8.6% 7.2%
Built in 2020 or later 74 0.9% 37.0%
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.

Natchitoches occupancy rates

Out of the 6,691 occupied housing units in Natchitoches, 41.6% are owner-occupied, while 58.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 19.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,691
3.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,907
Owner occupied
2,784
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,907 58.4% 5.7%
Owner occupied 2,784 41.6% 0.1%
Unoccupied housing units
19.2%
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.

Natchitoches housing costs

Housing costs in Natchitoches come to a median of $847 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $802.

Median housing costs per month
$847/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 Natchitoches
$802/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 Natchitoches

Natchitoches education at a glance

About 39% of the population in Natchitoches went to high school, while 31.5% pursued college studies. Another 5.6% earned an associate degree and 12.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 227 1.6% 4.6%
High school diploma 5,420 39% -1.5%
College diploma 4,381 31.5% 3.5%
Associate degree 782 5.6% 0.1%
Bachelor's degree 1,701 12.2% 0.3%
Graduate degree 1,388 10% 3.5%
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 Natchitoches

How much people earn in Natchitoches

The average annual household income in Natchitoches was $59,266 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $37,133, reflecting a -4.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Natchitoches
$59,266/year
-1.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Natchitoches
$37,133/year
-4.1% year-over-year change

Natchitoches income by age

In Natchitoches, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $48,255. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $44,917 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $17,245, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $44,595 in earnings. Overall, 65.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $17,245 0.9%
25 - 44 $48,255 -3.6%
45 - 64 $44,917 -14.9%
Over 65 $44,595 -2.4%
Above poverty level
9,661
Below poverty level
5,187
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 9,661 65.1% -3.0%
Below poverty level 5,187 34.9% 1.1%

Average renter income in Natchitoches

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Natchitoches, their median household income was $15,675 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 61.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$15,675
Rent-to-income ratio
61.4%
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 Natchitoches

Workforce and job types in Natchitoches

The job market in Natchitoches is powered by 7,141 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 77.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 22.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.8% run their own businesses, 59.6% are employed by private companies, and 24.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
7,141
-0.3% year-over-year change
White collar
5,566
Blue collar
1,575
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,566 77.9% -1.7%
Blue collar 1,575 22.1% 4.8%
Employer type
Self employees
8.8%
Private companies
59.6%
Governmental workers
24.6%
Not for profit companies
7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 628 8.8% -10.0%
Private companies 4,255 59.6% 0.6%
Governmental workers 1,758 24.6% 1.5%
Not for profit companies 500 7% -1.0%
Unemployment rate
7.1%
-8.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Natchitoches stands at 7.1%, 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 Natchitoches

How people get around in Natchitoches

In Natchitoches, the average commute time is 16 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 91% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
16 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,460 91% 0.5%
Bus or trolleybus 12 0.2% 71.4%
Motorcycle 4 0.1% 0.0%
Bicycle 35 0.5% -38.6%
Walk 328 4.6% -2.7%
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 Natchitoches by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
71457 24,370 9,957 $46,668 $69,763

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FAQs about Natchitoches demographics 

What is the total population of Natchitoches?

Natchitoches has a total population of 17,577 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 -0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Natchitoches?

The gender ratio in Natchitoches is as follows:
  • 45.7% males (8,031 residents)
  • 54.3% females (9,546 residents)

What is the median age in Natchitoches?

The median age in Natchitoches is 26.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Natchitoches?

The age distribution in Natchitoches is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.5% (3,081 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 30.2% (5,313 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.5% (3,950 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 16.1% (2,832 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.7% (2,401 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Natchitoches?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Natchitoches is as follows:
  • White: 34.9% (6,138 residents)
  • Black or African American: 56.2% (9,879 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (73 residents)
  • Asian: 0.7% (125 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (2 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6% (1,048 residents)
  • Other: 1.8% (312 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.1% of the population in Natchitoches.

How many housing units are there in Natchitoches?

There are 8,284 housing units in Natchitoches, reflecting a +1.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Natchitoches has a total of 6,691 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Natchitoches?

Natchitoches has a median household income of $37,133, representing a -4.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 92.9% in Natchitoches, with a workforce of 7,141 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 77.9% (5,566 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 22.1% (1,575 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.8% (628 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.6% (4,255 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 24.6% (1,758 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7% (500 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