Opelousas, LA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
15,495
-1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$32,964/yr
-9.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
7,493
5.7% year-over-year change

Opelousas population

How many people live in Opelousas

Opelousas is home to 15,495 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 45.9% of Opelousas locals are male, and 54.1% are female.

Total population
15,495
-1.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
45.9%
7,118
Female
54.1%
8,377
Value Percent YoY change
Male 7,118 45.9% -1.9%
Female 8,377 54.1% -0.3%
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 Opelousas is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.6% are children under 15, then 11.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.7% of the population, while another 23.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.6%
15 to 24
11.7%
25 to 44
26.7%
45 to 64
23.4%
Over 65
16.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,340 21.6% -12.3%
15 to 24 1,810 11.7% 0.1%
25 to 44 4,131 26.7% -3.2%
45 to 64 3,628 23.4% 7.2%
Over 65 2,586 16.7% 8.0%
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 Opelousas, 98.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.8% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 4.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.9%
Non-citizens
0.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 15,231 98.3% -1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 146 0.9% -13.6%
Non-citizens 118 0.8% 38.8%
Racial breakdown
White
16.6%
Black or African American
78%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.6%
Other
0.6%
Value Percent
White 2,568 16.6%
Black or African American 12,089 78%
American Indian and Alaska Native 32 0.2%
Asian 4 0%
Two or more races 711 4.6%
Other 91 0.6%

Households in Opelousas

A peek inside Opelousas households

Opelousas has 6,278 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 53.8% are families, while the remaining 46.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,278
5.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,902
Family households
3,376
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,902 46.2% 17.9%
Family households 3,376 53.8% -3.1%
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 Opelousas

The housing landscape of Opelousas

Opelousas's housing consists of 7,493 units, with 68.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.1% 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 10.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
7,493
5.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,127 68.4%
1 unit, attached 230 3.1%
2 units 529 7.1%
3 or 4 units 123 1.6%
5 to 9 units 342 4.6%
10 to 19 units 128 1.7%
20 to 49 units 129 1.7%
50 or more units 96 1.3%
Mobile home 789 10.5%
Homes built since 2020
27
12.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Opelousas

In Opelousas, the median construction year is 1975. About 3.6% 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, 8.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 270 3.6% 65.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 360 4.8% 7.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,144 15.3% 7.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,175 15.7% -26.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,630 21.8% 12.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,226 16.4% 10.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 583 7.8% -9.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 657 8.8% 41.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 421 5.6% 74.0%
Built in 2020 or later 27 0.4% 12.5%
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.

Opelousas occupancy rates

Out of the 6,278 occupied housing units in Opelousas, 52.8% are owner-occupied, while 47.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 16.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,278
5.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,965
Owner occupied
3,313
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,965 47.2% 0.9%
Owner occupied 3,313 52.8% 10.2%
Unoccupied housing units
16.2%
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.

Opelousas housing costs

Housing costs in Opelousas come to a median of $631 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $717.

Median housing costs per month
$631/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 Opelousas
$717/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 Opelousas

Opelousas education at a glance

About 53.5% of the population in Opelousas went to high school, while 21.2% pursued college studies. Another 9.4% earned an associate degree and 5.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 698 6% -11.4%
High school diploma 6,201 53.5% 0.5%
College diploma 2,464 21.2% 8.7%
Associate degree 1,087 9.4% 13.3%
Bachelor's degree 677 5.8% 1.5%
Graduate degree 468 4% 7.6%
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 Opelousas

How much people earn in Opelousas

The average annual household income in Opelousas was $45,855 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $32,964, reflecting a -9.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Opelousas
$45,855/year
-0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Opelousas
$32,964/year
-9.1% year-over-year change

Opelousas income by age

In Opelousas, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $32,037. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $36,884 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $33,281, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $26,216 in earnings. Overall, 62.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $33,281 N/A
25 - 44 $32,037 -12.3%
45 - 64 $36,884 -0.5%
Over 65 $26,216 -25.6%
Above poverty level
9,391
Below poverty level
5,532
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 9,391 62.9% -5.7%
Below poverty level 5,532 37.1% 9.5%

Average renter income in Opelousas

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Opelousas, their median household income was $26,407 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 32.6%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$26,407
Rent-to-income ratio
32.6%
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 Opelousas

Workforce and job types in Opelousas

The job market in Opelousas is powered by 5,165 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 67.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.2% run their own businesses, 75.7% are employed by private companies, and 12.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,165
1.4% year-over-year change
White collar
3,483
Blue collar
1,682
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,483 67.4% -3.2%
Blue collar 1,682 32.6% 12.4%
Employer type
Self employees
5.2%
Private companies
75.7%
Governmental workers
12.1%
Not for profit companies
7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 270 5.2% 16.4%
Private companies 3,908 75.7% -0.1%
Governmental workers 624 12.1% 11.4%
Not for profit companies 363 7% -6.7%
Unemployment rate
11.9%
19.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Opelousas stands at 11.9%, 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 Opelousas

How people get around in Opelousas

Commuting methods vary: 91.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.1% 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 4,634 91.1% 0.7%
Ferryboat 27 0.5% 3.9%
Walk 109 2.1% 7.9%
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 Opelousas by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
70570 37,565 15,323 $44,612 $60,221

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FAQs about Opelousas demographics 

What is the total population of Opelousas?

Opelousas has a total population of 15,495 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 -1.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Opelousas?

The gender ratio in Opelousas is as follows:
  • 45.9% males (7,118 residents)
  • 54.1% females (8,377 residents)

What is the median age in Opelousas?

The median age in Opelousas is 37.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Opelousas?

The age distribution in Opelousas is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.6% (3,340 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.7% (1,810 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.7% (4,131 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.4% (3,628 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.7% (2,586 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Opelousas?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Opelousas is as follows:
  • White: 16.6% (2,568 residents)
  • Black or African American: 78% (12,089 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (32 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (4 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.6% (711 residents)
  • Other: 0.6% (91 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.3% of the population in Opelousas.

How many housing units are there in Opelousas?

There are 7,493 housing units in Opelousas, reflecting a +5.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Opelousas has a total of 6,278 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Opelousas?

Opelousas has a median household income of $32,964, representing a -9.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 88.1% in Opelousas, with a workforce of 5,165 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67.4% (3,483 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32.6% (1,682 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.2% (270 residents)
  • Private companies: 75.7% (3,908 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.1% (624 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7% (363 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