Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Oakdale, LA
Considering a move to Oakdale, LA? With a small-town feel and a population of 6,692, Oakdale offers very affordable living—median home prices around $87,000 and average rents at $735. Commute times are reasonable at about 27 minutes, and the climate features mild winters and hot, sunny summers. While property and violent crime rates are above the national average, Oakdale provides access to local healthcare and public schools, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious movers who appreciate Southern hospitality.
Demographics - Oakdale, LA
Demographics - Oakdale, LA
Oakdale is home to 6,692 residents with a median age of 37.2 years, reflecting a balanced mix of families and working adults. The community has a diverse population, with over half identifying as White and nearly 38% as Black, and about 8.5% speaking a language other than English at home. The city’s population density supports a small-town atmosphere while maintaining a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Population:
6,692
Density:
1,175 per sq mi
Median Age:
37.2
Gender Ratio:
110 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
54.9%
Black:
37.7%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
6.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Oakdale, LA?
Living in Oakdale is budget-friendly, with a median home value of $87,000 and average rent around $735, making it an affordable option compared to much of the U.S. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, particularly in housing and utilities, which helps stretch household budgets further. Low state taxes and manageable utility costs contribute to a cost-effective lifestyle for residents.
Median House Value:
$87,000
Gross Rent:
$735
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,540
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$870
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$330
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
6.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
78.4
Grocery:
94.6
Housing:
54.2
Utilities:
97.5
Transportation:
92.1
Health Care:
95.3
Miscellaneous:
88.7
Crime
Is Oakdale, LA a safe place to live?
Oakdale experiences higher-than-average crime, with a property crime rate of 3,240 per 100,000 and violent crime at 654 per 100,000. Residents have about a 1 in 31 chance of being affected by property crime, so awareness and community engagement are important. While these rates may be higher than some areas, many find the town’s close-knit nature offers a sense of vigilance and support.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
654
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,240
Crime Index:
3,894
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 153
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 31
Weather
What is the weather like in Oakdale, LA year-round?
Oakdale enjoys a humid subtropical climate with mild winters, hot summers, and an annual average rainfall of about 58 inches. Summer highs often reach into the 90s, while winters remain relatively comfortable with lows in the upper 30s. With 62% of days being sunny, residents benefit from plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities year-round.
Winter
Min:
38°F
Max:
62°F
Spring
Min:
54°F
Max:
79°F
Summer
Min:
72°F
Max:
92°F
Fall
Min:
52°F
Max:
80°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
58.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Oakdale’s neighborhoods are characterized by modest incomes, with the median household earning around $32,400 and a poverty rate of about 33%. Most residents drive to work, facing average commutes of roughly 27 minutes, and public transportation use is minimal. The community values education, with over 75% having completed high school, though college graduation rates remain low.
Median Income:
$30,100
Household Income:
$32,400
Family Income:
$39,200
Per Capita Income:
$15,800
Income Male:
$36,900
Income Female:
$25,200
Poverty Rate:
32.6%
Non English Speakers:
8.5%
Rent:
$735
Unemployment Rate:
7.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
26.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
75.2%
Bachelors or More:
8.1%
Education
How are the schools in Oakdale, LA?
Oakdale’s public school system includes elementary, middle, and high schools with favorable student-teacher ratios, supporting a focused learning environment. While there are no notable private schools in town, higher education is within easy reach at Louisiana State University at Alexandria and Louisiana College, both less than 40 miles away. Families find the local schools welcoming, and nearby colleges offer further educational opportunities.
Public Schools
Name:
Oakdale High School
Street:
101 N 13th St
Phone:
318-335-2338
Students:
390
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.6
Name:
Oakdale Middle School
Street:
124 S 13th St
Phone:
318-335-3703
Students:
260
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.2
Name:
Oakdale Elementary School
Street:
400 E 10th Ave
Phone:
318-335-4338
Students:
470
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.1
Private Schools
Name:
None notable
Colleges
Name:
Louisiana State University at Alexandria
City:
Alexandria
State:
LA
Distance:
35 miles
Students:
3,400
Name:
Louisiana College
City:
Pineville
State:
LA
Distance:
39 miles
Students:
1,200
Healthcare
Residents in Oakdale have access to healthcare through Oakdale Community Hospital, which provides general and emergency services. With 1.5 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 88% health insurance coverage, most healthcare needs are met locally. The area’s healthcare index reflects accessible, though basic, medical resources for families and individuals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Oakdale Community Hospital
Address:
130 N Hospital Dr, Oakdale, LA 71463
Phone:
(318) 335-3700
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
88.4%
Health Care Index:
68.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Oakdale, LA?
Oakdale’s housing market is highly affordable, with a median home price of $87,000 and most residents owning their homes. Rental options are available with average two-bedroom rents at $735, and the area sees steady home appreciation and low foreclosure rates. The housing market is stable, making homeownership accessible for first-time buyers.
Median Home Price:
$87,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$735
Owner Occupied Rate:
61.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.3%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Oakdale residents can handle their motor vehicle needs at the local Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located on Hospital Drive. Services such as licensing, registration, and renewals are available both in-person and online. The DMV provides essential resources for new residents looking to register vehicles or obtain state identification.
State:
Louisiana
Department:
Office of Motor Vehicles
Address:
310 Hospital Dr, Oakdale, LA 71463
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.