Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Fort Polk, LA
Considering a move to Fort Polk, LA? This military-focused community of about 8,000 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $172,000 and average rents near $960. Typical commute times are short at just 16.5 minutes, and the local climate brings warm summers and mild winters with 60% sunny days. While crime rates are somewhat higher than average, Fort Polk features a youthful population, easy access to local schools, and proximity to extensive outdoor recreation, making it a practical destination for families and service members alike.
Demographics - Fort Polk, LA
Demographics - Fort Polk, LA
Fort Polk is home to approximately 8,000 residents, with a notably young median age of 23.5, reflecting its military community. The population is diverse, with 55% White, 25% Black, and a growing mix of other backgrounds, including 12% non-English speakers. The area has a slightly higher ratio of males to females, contributing to its dynamic community feel.
Population:
8,000
Density:
250 per sq mi
Median Age:
23.5
Gender Ratio:
110 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
12.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
55.0%
Black:
25.0%
Asian:
3.0%
Others:
17.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Fort Polk, LA?
Living in Fort Polk is relatively affordable, with a cost of living index of 88.4, well below the national average. Median home values are around $172,000 and average rents are $960, making housing accessible for many families. Utilities and groceries also remain budget-friendly, supporting a cost-effective lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$172,000
Gross Rent:
$960
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,900
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,080
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
6.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
88.4
Grocery:
93.2
Housing:
73.0
Utilities:
98.5
Transportation:
91.4
Health Care:
94.6
Miscellaneous:
95.1
Crime
Is Fort Polk, LA a safe place to live?
Fort Polk experiences a higher-than-average crime rate, with about 425 violent crimes and 2,230 property crimes per 100,000 residents. While the chance of experiencing a violent crime is 1 in 235, many families still choose the area for its community amenities and military presence. Staying aware and taking standard safety precautions is recommended.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
425
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,230
Crime Index:
2,655
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 235
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 45
Weather
What is the weather like in Fort Polk, LA year-round?
Residents of Fort Polk enjoy a warm, humid climate with hot summers reaching up to 93°F and mild winters averaging lows of 37°F. The city sees about 59 inches of annual rainfall and 60% sunny days, making it ideal for outdoor activities throughout the year. Spring and fall offer especially comfortable temperatures for exploring the region.
Winter
Min:
37°F
Max:
60°F
Spring
Min:
51°F
Max:
78°F
Summer
Min:
70°F
Max:
93°F
Fall
Min:
52°F
Max:
79°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
59.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
Households in Fort Polk typically earn a median income of around $48,000, with a family income averaging $52,500 and a poverty rate of 17.2%. Most adults have completed high school, and commute times are short at just over 16 minutes. The community is close-knit with a strong military influence and a relatively low use of public transportation.
Median Income:
$45,800
Household Income:
$48,000
Family Income:
$52,500
Per Capita Income:
$19,900
Income Male:
$38,000
Income Female:
$30,500
Poverty Rate:
17.2%
Non English Speakers:
12.0%
Rent:
$960
Unemployment Rate:
5.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
16.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
90.8%
Bachelors or More:
15.2%
Education
How are the schools in Fort Polk, LA?
Fort Polk features local public schools with favorable student-to-teacher ratios, such as North Polk Elementary and Pickering High School. While there are no private schools within the city, nearby colleges like Northwestern State University (39 miles away) and McNeese State University (58 miles away) offer higher education opportunities. Families benefit from accessible education options and proximity to regional universities.
Public Schools
Name:
North Polk Elementary
Street:
7840 Georgia Ave, Fort Polk, LA 71459
Phone:
337-537-5109
Students:
680
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.1
Name:
Pickering High School
Street:
180 Lebleu Rd, Leesville, LA 71446
Phone:
337-537-1555
Students:
470
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.8
Colleges
Name:
Northwestern State University
City:
Natchitoches
State:
LA
Distance:
39 miles
Students:
11,000
Name:
McNeese State University
City:
Lake Charles
State:
LA
Distance:
58 miles
Students:
7,200
Healthcare
Fort Polk offers convenient access to healthcare with two major hospitals in the vicinity, including Bayne-Jones Army Community Hospital. With 1.8 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 90% health insurance coverage, most families find medical services accessible. Emergency and general care needs are well served for the community.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Bayne-Jones Army Community Hospital
Address:
1585 3rd St, Fort Polk, LA 71459
Phone:
(337) 531-3118
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Byrd Regional Hospital
Address:
1020 W Fertitta Blvd, Leesville, LA 71446
Phone:
(337) 239-9041
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.8
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.6%
Health Care Index:
67.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Fort Polk, LA?
The housing market in Fort Polk is affordable, with a median home price of $172,000 and average two-bedroom rent at $960. Most homes are renter-occupied, and the area maintains a low foreclosure rate and steady appreciation. New construction is limited, reflecting the stable, modestly growing housing market.
Median Home Price:
$172,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$960
Owner Occupied Rate:
28.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
11.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
The Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles serves Fort Polk, offering essential licensing and registration services. Residents can visit the Monroe branch or access most services online through the state's ExpressLane website. The DMV provides convenient resources for both new arrivals and long-term residents.
State:
Louisiana
Department:
Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1111 N 19th St, Monroe, LA 71201
Phone:
1-225-925-6146
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.