Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Natchitoches, LA
Considering a move to Natchitoches, LA? This historic city of 17,344 residents offers affordable living with median home prices around $158,000 and average rents at $860. Commutes are quick, averaging just over 16 minutes, and the city enjoys mild winters with 62% sunny days. While crime rates are higher than average, Natchitoches features a vibrant college community, access to local healthcare, and a blend of Southern charm and affordability for new residents.
Demographics - Natchitoches, LA
Demographics - Natchitoches, LA
Natchitoches is home to about 17,344 residents, with a youthful median age of 28.4 years and a population that is majority Black at 56.2%. The community features a moderate population density and a diverse blend of cultures, including 6.5% non-English speakers. This city’s demographic makeup contributes to a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
Population:
17,344
Density:
1,160 per sq mi
Median Age:
28.4
Gender Ratio:
86 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
36.4%
Black:
56.2%
Asian:
1.1%
Others:
6.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Natchitoches, LA?
Natchitoches offers an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $158,000 and average rent around $860. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, making it attractive for budget-conscious families and retirees. Utilities and groceries are also reasonably priced, helping residents stretch their dollars further.
Median House Value:
$158,000
Gross Rent:
$860
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,540
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,020
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$360
State Taxes:
Low:
2%
|
High:
6%
Cost Of Living Index:
82.7
Grocery:
93.2
Housing:
62.5
Utilities:
93.1
Transportation:
86.7
Health Care:
95.0
Miscellaneous:
92.3
Crime
Is Natchitoches, LA a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Natchitoches are higher than the national average, especially for property crimes, which occur at a rate of 4,040 incidents per 100,000 people. Residents have a 1 in 25 chance of experiencing a property crime and a 1 in 169 chance of being affected by a violent crime. While safety is a consideration, community awareness and local law enforcement remain active.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
590
Property Crimes Per 100k:
4,040
Crime Index:
4,630
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 169
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 25
Weather
What is the weather like in Natchitoches, LA year-round?
Natchitoches experiences a mild climate with short, cool winters and hot, humid summers, where temperatures can reach up to 92°F. The city enjoys 62% sunny days yearly and receives about 54 inches of rainfall, making it ideal for those who appreciate a warm Southern atmosphere. Seasonal changes are gentle, providing comfortable living throughout the year.
Winter
Min:
36°F
Max:
60°F
Spring
Min:
51°F
Max:
78°F
Summer
Min:
69°F
Max:
92°F
Fall
Min:
50°F
Max:
77°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
54.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
The median household income in Natchitoches is $31,800, with a notable poverty rate of 34.6%. Most residents enjoy short commutes averaging just over 16 minutes, and 84.4% have at least a high school education. Despite economic challenges, the city maintains a close-knit, resilient community with a low unemployment rate and limited use of public transportation.
Median Income:
$26,800
Household Income:
$31,800
Family Income:
$42,100
Per Capita Income:
$18,500
Income Male:
$32,200
Income Female:
$24,600
Poverty Rate:
34.6%
Non English Speakers:
6.5%
Rent:
$860
Unemployment Rate:
6.3%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
16.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
84.4%
Bachelors or More:
18.2%
Education
How are the schools in Natchitoches, LA?
Natchitoches provides a range of educational opportunities, from public schools like Natchitoches Central High School to private institutions such as St. Mary’s Catholic School. The city is also home to Northwestern State University of Louisiana, which enrolls over 10,000 students and adds a vibrant college-town feel. Overall, families have access to quality education at all levels.
Public Schools
Name:
Natchitoches Central High School
Street:
716 College Ave
Phone:
318-352-9656
Students:
1,300
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.5
Name:
East Natchitoches Elementary/Middle School
Street:
1001 East Fifth St
Phone:
318-357-9473
Students:
670
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.2
Private Schools
Name:
St. Mary’s Catholic School
Street:
1101 East Fifth St
Phone:
318-352-8394
Students:
400
Colleges
Name:
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
City:
Natchitoches
State:
LA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
10,500
Healthcare
Residents of Natchitoches have access to quality healthcare through the Natchitoches Regional Medical Center, which provides emergency and general services. The city has about 1.5 physicians per 1,000 people and nearly 90% health insurance coverage. Healthcare in the area is accessible and reliable for most families and individuals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Natchitoches Regional Medical Center
Address:
501 Keyser Ave, Natchitoches, LA 71457
Phone:
(318) 214-4200
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.7%
Health Care Index:
78.6
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Natchitoches, LA?
The housing market in Natchitoches is affordable, with a median home price of $158,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $860. Nearly half of homes are owner-occupied, and the area experiences modest home appreciation. Rental vacancies are moderate, offering a range of options for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$158,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$860
Owner Occupied Rate:
46.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
10.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.8%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Local residents can access driver and vehicle services at the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located within Natchitoches. The DMV offers standard licensing, registration, and title services, with additional resources available through the state’s official website. This ensures straightforward access for new and existing residents.
State:
Louisiana
Department:
Office of Motor Vehicles
Address:
103 La Rue Circle, Natchitoches, LA 71457
Phone:
1-318-357-3141
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.