Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Chestnut, LA
Considering Chestnut, LA for your next move? With a population of just 285, this small town offers affordable living—median homes at $94,500 and average rents around $680. Expect a relaxed pace, short 29-minute commutes, and mild winters with 62% sunny days. While property crime is above the national average, residents enjoy a tight-knit community and convenient access to local schools and healthcare. Chestnut is ideal for those seeking rural charm and budget-friendly housing.
Demographics - Chestnut, LA
Demographics - Chestnut, LA
Chestnut, LA is a small rural town with a population of 285 and a median age of 47.2, reflecting a mature and close-knit community. The area is predominantly White (76%) with a notable Black population (20.5%), and a low percentage of non-English speakers. Its low population density and balanced gender ratio create a quiet, neighborly atmosphere.
Population:
285
Density:
110 per sq mi
Median Age:
47.2
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.1%

Ethnic Composition
White:
76.0%
Black:
20.5%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
3.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Chestnut, LA?
Chestnut offers a very affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $94,500 and average rent at $680, well below national averages. Utility and grocery costs are moderate, and state taxes are relatively low, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious residents. The overall cost of living index of 83.4 highlights its appeal for those seeking lower daily expenses.
Median House Value:
$94,500
Gross Rent:
$680
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$135
Auto Insurance:
$1,780
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$930
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$305
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
6.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
83.4
Grocery:
89.1
Housing:
54.2
Utilities:
94.3
Transportation:
88.7
Health Care:
93.2
Miscellaneous:
91.0
Crime
Is Chestnut, LA a safe place to live?
While Chestnut boasts a peaceful rural setting, its property crime rate is higher than average, with a 1 in 38 chance of experiencing property crime. Violent crime remains relatively low at 505 incidents per 100,000 people, so most residents feel safe day-to-day. Community awareness and small-town vigilance help foster a sense of security despite these concerns.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
505
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,650
Crime Index:
3,155
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 198
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 38
Weather
What is the weather like in Chestnut, LA year-round?
Residents enjoy mild winters with lows around 37°F and warm summers reaching up to 93°F. The area receives about 54 inches of rainfall annually and experiences 62% sunny days, offering a pleasant climate for outdoor activities. Seasonal changes are gentle, making Chestnut comfortable year-round.

Winter
Min:
37°F
Max:
58°F

Spring
Min:
53°F
Max:
76°F

Summer
Min:
71°F
Max:
93°F

Fall
Min:
55°F
Max:
78°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
54.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
The typical household in Chestnut earns about $38,200, with a notable poverty rate of 21.5% reflecting economic challenges for some families. Educational attainment is moderate, with 78% graduating high school and 11.6% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. Most residents drive to work with an average 29-minute commute, enjoying a slower pace of life.
Median Income:
$31,000
Household Income:
$38,200
Family Income:
$47,600
Per Capita Income:
$19,800
Income Male:
$34,500
Income Female:
$28,900
Poverty Rate:
21.5%
Non English Speakers:
3.1%
Rent:
$680
Unemployment Rate:
5.5%
Public Transport Usage:
0.1%
Commute Time:
29.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
78.2%
Bachelors or More:
11.6%
Education
How are the schools in Chestnut, LA?
Families in Chestnut benefit from local schools like Dodson High School, which maintains a student-teacher ratio of 16.7 for personalized learning. While there are no private schools in town, higher education is accessible at Northwestern State University, located just 31 miles away. The area offers solid public education and convenient college options for residents.

Public Schools
Name:
Dodson High School
Street:
1812 Main St, Dodson, LA 71422
Phone:
318-628-3569
Students:
310
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.7

Colleges
Name:
Northwestern State University
City:
Natchitoches
State:
LA
Distance:
31 miles
Students:
10,500
Healthcare
Chestnut residents have access to nearby care at Winn Parish Medical Center, which provides emergency and general services. Health insurance coverage is high at 89.4%, and there are approximately 1.2 physicians per 1,000 people. While healthcare resources are limited compared to larger cities, basic needs are well met locally.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Winn Parish Medical Center
Address:
301 West Boundary Street, Winnfield, LA 71483
Phone:
(318) 628-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.4%
Health Care Index:
66.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Chestnut, LA?
The Chestnut housing market features affordable homes, with the median price at $94,500 and a high owner-occupied rate of 72.4%. Average rent for a two-bedroom is $680, and the area sees modest home appreciation of 4.3% annually. Rental vacancies are available but limited, making it a stable market for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$94,500
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$680
Owner Occupied Rate:
72.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.9%
DMV Information
Chestnut residents are served by the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles, headquartered in Baton Rouge. Services include vehicle registration, licensing, and title transfers, with up-to-date information available on the state DMV website. Local DMV needs are met through accessible online and regional resources.
State:
Louisiana
Department:
Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles
Address:
7701 Independence Blvd, Baton Rouge, LA 70806
Phone:
225-925-6146
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.