Top 10 Safest Neighborhoods to Live in Louisiana (2023)

Louisiana is a state that attracts numerous tourists every year, thanks to its mesmerizing gator-filled swamps and vibrant party streets of New Orleans. However, the state has often been criticized for its crime rate. Despite this, Louisiana is home to many safe and secure cities perfect for settling down. In this article, we will explore the top ten safest cities in Louisiana that provide a tranquil environment to call home.

1. Mandeville

Mandeville, located in St. Tammany Parish, Louisiana, is considered the safest city in the state. With a population of approximately 12,371, this small town on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain boasts a crime rate that is 43% lower than the national average. Despite being just across the water from New Orleans, Mandeville offers a sense of community and tranquillity, with access to fantastic fishing spots and plenty of outdoor recreation. The median home price in Mandeville is $357,660, making it an ideal place to settle down for families and individuals alike.

2. Slidell

Located on the northeast shore of Louisiana’s Lake Pontchartrain in St. Tammany Parish, Slidell stands as one of the safest cities in the state. With a population of approximately 27,973, this city boasts a violent crime rate that is 32% below the national average. Slidell is also a part of the New Orleans metropolitan area and is home to several well-known celebrities, athletes, and other personalities. Automotive and military contractor Textron Marine & Land Systems has its global headquarters in Slidell. The median home price in this charming city is $228,392.

3. Covington

Covington, Louisiana, is known for being one of the safest cities in the state. As the seat of St. Tammany Parish, this city is situated at the confluence of the Bogue Falaya and Tchefuncte Rivers. With a population of approximately 10,658, Covington boasts a lower crime rate than the national average. Many people have relocated to Covington in the past decade as it offers a peaceful suburban lifestyle. The city has a variety of local trails that are perfect for hikers and bicyclists looking to enjoy the outdoors. The median home price in Covington is $310,616, making it an affordable place to settle down.

4. Abbeville 

Abbeville, a city in Vermillion Parish with a population of 11,186, is a safe place to live. Located 150 miles from New Orleans and 60 miles from Baton Rouge, Abbeville boasts a crime rate that is 24% below the national average. The city is home to a unique blend of colonial and Caribbean architecture, with many buildings listed on the National Historic Register. Much of Abbeville’s economy is rooted in agricultural production, including rice, sugarcane, dairy, and seafood such as crawfish, alligator, and crab. The city’s economy is further supported by nearby oil and natural gas production in the Gulf of Mexico. The median home price in Abbeville is $141,199.

5. Baker 

Baker, situated in East Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana, is known for its serene surroundings and being one of the safest cities in the state. With a population of around 13,487, Baker boasts a crime rate that is 21% below the national average, making it an ideal place to live. The city has 31 law enforcement employees, providing a ratio of 2.30 police officers per 1,000 residents, ensuring the community’s safety. Baker has a National Guard installation that not only adds to the local economy but also provides a sense of security to the residents. Furthermore, Baker hosts the annual Baker Buffalo Festival, a community-wide event that raises funds for the local school district. Baker’s average median home price is just $175,425, making it an affordable and secure place to call home.

6. Minden 

Located in northern Louisiana, Minden is a quaint and secure town that serves as the parish seat of Webster Parish. With a population of around 12,215, Minden boasts a crime rate below the state and national averages, making it an ideal place to call home. The town also features a charming historic downtown area with numerous fantastic Cajun-style restaurants that will tantalize your taste buds. Moreover, Minden is an affordable place to live, with a median home price of $125,342.

7. DeRidder 

DeRidder, located in Beauregard Parish, is home to around 10,578 residents and is well-known for its impressive architecture, particularly its Goth Revival style. The downtown DeRidder historic district boasts many popular buildings and shops among tourists and locals. One such building is the Beauregard Parish Jail, built in 1914 and a must-see tourist site. Additionally, DeRidder has a crime rate that is 16% lower than the national average, and its well-funded police force makes it one of the safest places to live in Louisiana. With a median home price of $148,795, DeRidder is an excellent place to call home.

8. Gretna 

Gretna is a city located along the Mississippi River to the east of New Orleans and is the parish seat of Jefferson Parish. With a population of approximately 17,965, Gretna is considered one of the safest cities in Louisiana. This can be attributed to the fact that the town has one of the best-funded police forces in the United States, resulting in consistently lower crime rates than the national average. Despite being severely affected by Hurricane Katrina in 2004, Gretna has undergone significant revitalization. The community has a strong sense of togetherness, evident in the numerous downtown food festivals and local amusement parks set up for various events. For those considering relocating, the median home price in Gretna is $212,048.

9. Kenner 

Located in Jefferson Parish, Kenner is a thriving suburb of New Orleans that boasts of its safe streets and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. Being the largest incorporated suburban city of New Orleans, Kenner has a population of 67,556. With a crime rate of 10% below the national average, Kenner is one of the safest cities in Louisiana, adding to its allure as a desirable place to live. Despite its proximity to New Orleans and its numerous attractions, Kenner has managed to maintain its safe environment and remains largely unaffected by crime. The median home price in Kenner currently stands at $227,022, making it an affordable option for those looking for a peaceful and secure community to call home.

10. Thibodaux 

Thibodaux, situated along the banks of Bayou Lafourche, is one of the safest cities in Louisiana. The city has a population of approximately 14,745, with a crime rate that is 7% lower than the national average. Thibodaux’s rich history is linked to the former French Empire, with many Catholic relics, including St. Valerie’s tomb, located in the city. Thibodaux has been a hub for Louisiana’s most distinguished athletes, writers, and politicians. The median home price in Thibodaux is $215,118.

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