Cost of Living in Natchitoches, LA
Population 17,682 · Louisiana · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Household incomes in Natchitoches run well below national norms — a median of $38,731 versus the $74,580 US figure. Housing costs partially offset that gap (typical home values around $188,000). Around 35% of residents live below the federal poverty line, a rate that tends to correlate with the income and housing figures above.
Geographically, Natchitoches is about 65 miles southeast of Shreveport, the nearest large metro. Housing prices track closely with Shreveport's $178,000 median.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Natchitoches
The median home value in Natchitoches is $188,400 — 38% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $777/month, 41% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $38,731/year is 48% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 7.6%, above the national average of 4.8%. Louisiana's top state income tax rate is 4.3% and the combined sales tax is 9.5%. Overall, Natchitoches has a cost of living index of 61 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 39% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
🏫 Schools
NCES CCD 2019 — public school district data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Natchitoches, LA?
Natchitoches has a cost index of 61 (100 = national average). It is 39% below the national average.
What is average rent in Natchitoches, LA?
The median gross rent in Natchitoches is $777 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Natchitoches?
The median home value in Natchitoches is $188,400 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Natchitoches?
The median household income in Natchitoches is $38,731 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Natchitoches, LA?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Natchitoches is 9.5%. The Louisiana state income tax top rate is 4.3%.
Is Natchitoches, LA affordable?
Yes, Natchitoches is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 61 — about 39% below the US national average of 100.
Natchitoches at a Glance
- Population
- 17,682
- Median Income
- $38,731
- Home Value
- $188,400
- Median Rent
- $777/mo
- Unemployment
- 7.6%
- Sales Tax
- 9.5%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Louisiana Rankings
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