Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Lake, LA
Considering a move to Lake, LA? With around 12,800 residents, Lake offers a relaxed lifestyle with affordable housing—a median home price of $138,000 and average rent at $860—plus a cost of living below the national average. While property crime rates run higher than average, the city features a short average commute of 22 minutes, local universities like McNeese State, and a warm, sunny climate with 62% sunny days. Lake’s friendly, diverse community and access to healthcare make it a practical choice for newcomers seeking value and Southern charm.
Demographics - Lake, LA
Lake, LA is home to approximately 12,800 residents, with a population density of 1,100 people per square mile and a median age of 37.8 years. The city is notably diverse, with 54% identifying as White and 41% as Black, and about 7% of residents primarily speak a language other than English at home.
Population:
12,800
Density:
1,100 per sq mi
Median Age:
37.8
Gender Ratio:
94 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
54.0%
Black:
41.0%
Asian:
1.5%
Others:
3.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Lake, LA?
Lake offers a cost of living well below the national average, featuring a median home value of $138,000 and average rent around $860 per month. Utility costs are slightly higher than average, but residents benefit from lower overall expenses in groceries, transportation, and housing.
Median House Value:
$138,000
Gross Rent:
$860
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$2,230
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,130
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
6.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
86.5
Grocery:
94.5
Housing:
65.2
Utilities:
109.4
Transportation:
94.1
Health Care:
92.8
Miscellaneous:
92.0
Crime
Is Lake, LA a safe place to live?
While Lake maintains a small-town atmosphere, property crime rates are somewhat elevated, with a chance of 1 in 35, while the chance of experiencing a violent crime is 1 in 238. The city’s overall crime index reflects a need for awareness, but many residents appreciate the sense of community and local vigilance.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
420
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,850
Crime Index:
3,270
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 238
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 35
Weather
What is the weather like in Lake, LA year-round?
Lake enjoys a warm, subtropical climate with mild winters averaging lows around 39°F and hot, humid summers peaking at 92°F. The area receives about 58 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 62% sunny days, making it appealing for those who enjoy outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
39°F
Max:
60°F
Spring
Min:
54°F
Max:
75°F
Summer
Min:
71°F
Max:
92°F
Fall
Min:
55°F
Max:
77°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
57.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Lake’s median household income is $39,400, with about 22.5% of residents living below the poverty line. Most neighbors commute just under 22 minutes, and the community reflects strong local roots, with nearly 85% holding at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$27,800
Household Income:
$39,400
Family Income:
$44,200
Per Capita Income:
$21,200
Income Male:
$33,100
Income Female:
$28,900
Poverty Rate:
22.5%
Non English Speakers:
7.2%
Rent:
$860
Unemployment Rate:
5.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
21.9 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
84.9%
Bachelors or More:
15.1%
Education
How are the schools in Lake, LA?
Lake provides a range of educational options, including public schools like Barbe High School and Lake Charles Charter Academy, as well as private institutions such as St. Louis Catholic High School. Higher education is readily available through McNeese State University and SOWELA Technical Community College, both located within the city.
Public Schools
Name:
Barbe High School
Street:
2200 West McNeese St
Phone:
337-217-4460
Students:
2,000
Student Teacher Ratio:
19.5
Name:
Lake Charles Charter Academy
Street:
3160 Power Centre Pkwy
Phone:
337-419-4200
Students:
1,000
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.8
Private Schools
Name:
St. Louis Catholic High School
Street:
1620 Bank St
Phone:
337-436-7275
Students:
650
Colleges
Name:
McNeese State University
City:
Lake Charles
State:
LA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
7,500
Name:
SOWELA Technical Community College
City:
Lake Charles
State:
LA
Distance:
2 miles
Students:
3,000
Healthcare
Residents of Lake have access to several major hospitals, including Lake Area Medical Center and CHRISTUS Ochsner St. Patrick Hospital, both offering emergency services. The city maintains a favorable physician-to-population ratio and about 88% of residents have health insurance coverage.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Lake Area Medical Center
Address:
4200 Nelson Rd, Lake Charles, LA 70605
Phone:
(337) 474-6370
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
CHRISTUS Ochsner St. Patrick Hospital
Address:
524 Dr Michael DeBakey Dr, Lake Charles, LA 70601
Phone:
(337) 436-2511
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
87.6%
Health Care Index:
71.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Lake, LA?
Lake features a housing market with a median home price of $138,000 and an average rent of $860 for a two-bedroom unit. Over half of residents own their homes, and the area has a moderate home appreciation rate of 3.1% annually.
Median Home Price:
$138,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$860
Owner Occupied Rate:
57.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.9%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.9%
DMV Information
The Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles serves Lake residents, with a nearby branch in Lafayette for all licensing and registration needs. Appointments and information are easily accessible via the state’s official ExpressLane website.
State:
Louisiana
Department:
Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles
Address:
702 Kaliste Saloom Rd, Lafayette, LA 70508
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.