7 Top-Ranked Towns in Louisiana for Retirees

Although low-cost living is Louisiana's main advantage compared to other states in America, the Bayou State is also known for its history of French influence, abundance of natural resources, and an engaging community scene depicted through music festivals, cultural gatherings, and more. Diverse landscapes, a strong sense of local community underscored by Southern hospitality, and a 9% lower cost of living than the national average are critical factors in attracting new senior residents to Louisiana. However, these attractions are further enhanced by senior communities, with a significant 25% of the state's entire population being over 60 years old.

Seniors moving to Louisiana will enjoy a balance of exceptional Cajun cuisine, endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, and a lively new community to call home. From the quaint charm of small-town living in cities like Alexandria to the vibrant atmosphere of retirement communities such as Minden, where engaging community events are the main appeal, Louisiana offers diverse retirement options tailored to match your preferences, ensuring you enjoy your golden years to the fullest.

Minden

Named the friendliest city in the South, Minden is one of the most hospitable towns retirees can relocate to in the Bayou State. Aside from being one of the best places to retire in Louisiana, the town is most notable for its long-lasting influence of Spanish, French, and African ancestry, depicted through food, events, and architecture. Some of the town’s best-ranked senior homes include Savannah Court of Minden and Arbor of Minden, while the town’s main health facility is the Minden Medical Center.

Average 2024 home prices in Minden are valued at $167,950, while residents typically earn average annual salaries of $22,000, ranking Minden as one of the most affordable places for seniors to relocate to in Louisiana. Additionally, community events are a significant part of the town’s experience, with Mardi Gras and The Webster Parish Fair.

Opelousas

Named after the Native American tribe Opelousa, which lived in the area long before European settlers, this small town in Louisiana is synonymous with Cajun culture, from culinary festivals to musical heritage. Opelousas locals take pride in their history of being the third oldest city in Louisiana. TailorIing to that advantage with antique shops, tours of the 19th-century cottage village of Le Vieux Village, and well-preserved historic buildings.

Opelousas is one of the closest points you’ll get to living in old-times Louisiana for its events that commemorate early times, like the Zydeco Capital Jam, the Southwest Louisiana Zydeco Music Festival born in 1982, and the famous Yambilee festival built around local cuisine. Aside from the town’s engaging appeal and attraction, it is relatively affordable, with average home prices valued at $195,000; reputable seniors assisted living communities like Peaks of Opelousas for independent living; and the Our Lady of Prompt Succor Nursing Facility.

Jennings

Jennings is most recognized for being home to the first oil well in Louisiana; thus, it is nicknamed the “Cradle of Louisiana Oil.” Jennings ranks as one of the best towns to retire in Louisiana, primarily because it enjoys an abundant natural setting and is conveniently located between the two major metropolitan cities of Lake Charles and Lafayette. Originally established as a railroad community, the town has evolved to embrace a thriving agricultural scene, attracting visitors with its Preserved buildings, art collections, and museums, such as the mid-century Country Life Museum, which contribute to the town’s allure and cultural significance.

With one of the most affordable housing markets in 2024, the average home price in Jennings is valued at $70,000, and healthcare facilities like the Ochsner American Legion Hospital stand out as one of the best well-rounded retirement options in Louisiana. Top-rated retirement homes in Jennings include The Jefferson Davis Living Center, Westmire Homes, and Camelot Brookside. Additionally, cultural events are also a significant part of the small life experience in Jennings, with some of the most notable being the Jennings Mardi Gras Festival, Movie Night on Main Street, and the Jennings Alive Fall Festival.

Crowley

Crowley is most notable for its agricultural production and vast rice fields, and it holds the nickname “The Rice Capital of the World.” Locals take pride in their history of rice production, with some of its most notable attractions inheriting the town’s agricultural advantage in their name, like the Rice Theatre, and citywide events like the annual International Rice Festival in October. Sitting 25 mi west of Lafayette, places like Crowley Cinema IV, Crowley Art Association, and Grand Opera House Of The South are a few of the contributing local attractions to the town’s historic appeal, with over 200 nationally registered historic buildings.

Average home prices in the landmark rice town in 2024 are estimated at a median of $172,000, with an average annual salary of $25,600. The Acadian at Southwind, Southwind Healthcare & Rehabilitation, and Landmark of Rayne are a few of the top-rated assisted living options in Crowley. At the same time, its proximity to major cities like the capital city of Baton Rouge makes the town one of the best destinations to access big-city amenities without tolerating the city's bustle.

Natchitoches

The oldest town in Louisiana stands out as another perfect retirement option in the Bayou State, with a history of preserved European influence dating back to 1774. Aside from being enriched in historical allure, the town also enjoys a balance of various natural atmospheres, from a waterfront setting on Sibley Lake to lush parks like the event grounds of Dark Woods Adventure Park. Natchitoches Regional Medical Center and endless senior care options also qualify the town to make the list of the seven top-ranked towns in Louisiana for retirees.

Some of the top-rated nursing homes and assisted living options in town include Natchitoches Community Care and Courtyard of Natchitoches, along with independent living communities like Cane Garden Apartments and Natchitoches Elderly Apartments on Washington St. Additionally, the small-town experience in Natchitoches is enhanced with a booming culinary experience, featuring an insight to traditional dining. Must-visit restaurants include Lasyone’s Meat Pie Restaurant, French Market Express, Mariener’s Restaurant, and Mayeaux’s Steak & Seafood Restaurant. However, due to the town’s diverse natural settings, rich cultural heritage, and popular demand, it is also one of the most expensive towns to retire to in Louisiana; home prices are significantly higher than other options in the Bayou state, valued at $279,000.

Abbeville

Abbeville is the best retirement destination in Louisiana for seniors seeking elements of countryside living without excluding the engaging community element. From Abbeville’s annual Giant Omlete Festival to the Sicilian Celebration commemorating immigration with food competitions, live music, and more, retirees are ensured a lively and entertaining experience in Abbeville. Adding to the town’s advantage is that it is considered a suburb of Lafayette, located just 20.9 mi away.

Seniors relocating to Abbeville can embrace tranquil nature at Palmetto Island State Park, enjoy fresh seafood dining, and have the opportunity to attend local music performances at Magdalen Square’s Downtown Gazebo. Average home prices in town are valued at $165,000, with some of its best-assisted living options being Maison du Monde Living Center, The Vermilion at Eastridge, and reliable healthcare facilities like the main Abbeville General Hospital with more options in the nearby metropolises like the Ochsner Lafayette General Community Health Center.

Alexandria

Finally, Alexandria ranks as the perfect retirement option for seniors looking for a toned-down version of the state’s major cities. With its population of 44,787, Alexandria has one of the largest populations out of all of the seven top-ranked towns in Louisiana for retirees. Alexandria, with its big city amenities, is also home to a vibrant nature between the two major cities of Shreveport and New Orleans. Some of the town’s most scenic spots for a morning walk or sunset campout include the Pineville riverfront separating Alexandria from the town of Pineville Kincaid recreational Area located west of the town, along with city lush destinations like Bringhurst City Park.

Offering the best of both worlds, home prices in Alexandria also reflect the advantages offered, with average home prices valued at $669,450 and annual expenses of $28,000 per single person. However, with well-rounded senior facilities of retirement homes and communities, seniors relocating to Alexandria can rent a one-bedroom for an average of $700 per month or choose between a selection of assisted living options. Brookdale Alexandria, SummerHouse, and Summit Retirement Center are a few of the top-rated options in town.

Embrace Your Golden Years in Louisiana's Welcoming Towns

Ultimately, seniors who relocate to Louisiana are offered the fulfilling advantage of an engaging local scene and the opportunity to socialize and easily fit in with locals. Historical elements depicted through well-preserved architecture, agricultural industries passed down through generations, and a captivating community element emphasized by endless events are a few of the charms that set Louisiana apart from other states. Despite the state’s overall crime rate being 1.24% higher than the national average, particularly noticeable in cities with larger populations, Louisiana’s welcoming environment, supportive neighbors, and commitment to well-protected senior communities ensure safety and peace of mind.