Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Cotton Valley, LA
Thinking of relocating to Cotton Valley, LA? With a small-town population of 787, Cotton Valley offers a quiet, close-knit lifestyle and affordable living—median home prices are just $77,000 and average rents around $645. While the cost of living is low, be aware of higher-than-average property crime rates and limited local amenities. Commutes are short at under 23 minutes, and you’ll enjoy a mild, sunny climate. Local schools and healthcare are basic but accessible, with larger colleges and hospitals a short drive away.
Demographics - Cotton Valley, LA
Demographics - Cotton Valley, LA
Cotton Valley is a small, close-knit community of 787 residents, with a median age of just over 40 and a population that is predominantly White and Black. The area has a balanced gender ratio and a modest percentage of non-English speakers, fostering a friendly and familiar neighborhood atmosphere. Its moderate population density supports a relaxed, small-town feel ideal for those seeking a quieter lifestyle.
Population:
787
Density:
410 per sq mi
Median Age:
40.3
Gender Ratio:
91 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
55.1%
Black:
42.3%
Asian:
0.1%
Others:
2.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Cotton Valley, LA?
Living in Cotton Valley is highly affordable, with a median home value of $77,000 and average rents around $645 per month. The cost of living index is well below the national average, making it attractive for budget-conscious individuals and families. Utilities and groceries also remain reasonably priced, helping residents stretch their budgets further.
Median House Value:
$77,000
Gross Rent:
$645
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,670
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$850
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$320
State Taxes:
Low:
2%
|
High:
6%
Cost Of Living Index:
78.9
Grocery:
89.5
Housing:
55.1
Utilities:
92.3
Transportation:
86.7
Health Care:
91.2
Miscellaneous:
81.0
Crime
Is Cotton Valley, LA a safe place to live?
While Cotton Valley offers a peaceful atmosphere, residents should be aware that property crime rates are above average, with about 1 in 40 chance of experiencing property crime annually. Violent crime is less common, but still present, at a rate of 512 incidents per 100,000 people. Taking standard precautions and staying informed can help ensure personal safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
512
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,480
Crime Index:
2,992
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 195
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 40
Weather
What is the weather like in Cotton Valley, LA year-round?
Cotton Valley experiences mild winters with lows in the mid-30s and warm, humid summers reaching up to 93°F. The area enjoys a good amount of sunshine, with 61% sunny days each year and an average annual rainfall of around 54.5 inches. This climate creates a pleasant environment for outdoor activities most of the year.
Winter
Min:
36°F
Max:
58°F
Spring
Min:
54°F
Max:
77°F
Summer
Min:
71°F
Max:
93°F
Fall
Min:
53°F
Max:
79°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
54.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
61%
Neighbors
Residents in Cotton Valley benefit from a strong sense of community, though local incomes are modest with a median household income of $28,700 and a poverty rate of 27.2%. Most neighbors commute about 23 minutes to work, and public transportation is not commonly used. The educational attainment is solid at the high school level, providing a stable base for families.
Median Income:
$21,600
Household Income:
$28,700
Family Income:
$36,200
Per Capita Income:
$15,100
Income Male:
$33,400
Income Female:
$22,900
Poverty Rate:
27.2%
Non English Speakers:
3.8%
Rent:
$645
Unemployment Rate:
7.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
22.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
76.1%
Bachelors or More:
7.5%
Education
How are the schools in Cotton Valley, LA?
Cotton Valley offers basic educational opportunities, with a local elementary school serving about 195 students and a favorable student-teacher ratio. While there are no private schools in town, several colleges are located within a 40-mile radius, providing higher education options for residents. This setup supports families seeking accessible K-12 education and convenient paths to college.
Public Schools
Name:
Cotton Valley Elementary School
Street:
300 W Parish St
Phone:
318-832-4221
Students:
195
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.5
Colleges
Name:
Southern Arkansas University
City:
Magnolia
State:
AR
Distance:
37 miles
Students:
4,100
Name:
Bossier Parish Community College
City:
Bossier City
State:
LA
Distance:
36 miles
Students:
6,800
Healthcare
Healthcare in Cotton Valley is anchored by nearby facilities such as Minden Medical Center, and 85% of residents have health insurance. There are about 1.6 physicians per 1,000 residents, offering basic medical services locally, with more comprehensive care accessible in neighboring cities. The healthcare index suggests service is adequate for a town of its size.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Minden Medical Center
Address:
1 Medical Plaza, Minden, LA 71055
Phone:
(318) 377-2321
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
85.0%
Health Care Index:
65.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Cotton Valley, LA?
The housing market in Cotton Valley is very affordable, with a median home price of $77,000 and over 74% of homes being owner-occupied. Rental options are available with average rent for a two-bedroom at $645, and vacancy rates provide some flexibility for newcomers. Home values have seen modest appreciation, making the area attractive for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$77,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$645
Owner Occupied Rate:
74.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
11.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
1.0%
DMV Information
Residents handle driver’s licenses and vehicle registration through the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles, located in nearby Shreveport. The DMV offers essential services both in-person and online, streamlining the process for local drivers. For more information or to make an appointment, visit the official website at expresslane.org.
State:
Louisiana
Department:
Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles
Address:
5171 Northeast Dr, Shreveport, LA 71109
Phone:
318-632-5200
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.