Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Ponchatoula, LA
Considering a move to Ponchatoula, LA? This friendly city of about 7,857 residents offers a small-town feel with affordable median home prices around $188,000 and average rents near $1,050. With a reasonable cost of living, a mild subtropical climate, and proximity to Hammond’s hospital and Southeastern Louisiana University, Ponchatoula is great for families. Commute times average 28 minutes, schools are well-rated, and the area is known for its welcoming community and ample sunny days.
Demographics - Ponchatoula, LA
Demographics - Ponchatoula, LA
Ponchatoula is home to about 7,857 residents, with a median age of 36.2 and a population density that gives the city a welcoming small-town atmosphere. The community is predominantly White, alongside a significant Black population, and nearly 5% of residents speak a language other than English at home. The gender ratio is balanced, contributing to the city’s diverse and family-friendly character.
Population:
7,857
Density:
1,450 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.2
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.7%
Ethnic Composition
White:
72.4%
Black:
21.7%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
5.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Ponchatoula, LA?
Ponchatoula offers an affordable lifestyle, with median home values around $188,000 and average rents near $1,050, making it attractive to both homeowners and renters. The cost of living index is below the national average, and essential expenses like groceries and utilities remain reasonable. State income taxes range from 2% to 6%, allowing residents to stretch their budgets further.
Median House Value:
$188,000
Gross Rent:
$1,050
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$135
Auto Insurance:
$2,160
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,180
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$400
State Taxes:
Low:
2%
|
High:
6%
Cost Of Living Index:
88.5
Grocery:
94.0
Housing:
68.0
Utilities:
94.2
Transportation:
93.5
Health Care:
91.9
Miscellaneous:
90.7
Crime
Is Ponchatoula, LA a safe place to live?
The city experiences a moderate crime rate, with a chance of property crime at about 1 in 34 and violent crime at 1 in 298, indicating the need for basic safety precautions. While property crime is more prevalent, overall crime rates are typical for cities of similar size in Louisiana. Residents find Ponchatoula to be a generally safe place for families and individuals alike.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
335
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,930
Crime Index:
3,265
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 298
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 34
Weather
What is the weather like in Ponchatoula, LA year-round?
Ponchatoula enjoys a mild subtropical climate, featuring warm, humid summers with highs around 92°F and mild winters where temperatures rarely dip below 41°F. The area receives about 63 inches of annual rainfall and boasts sunny weather around 62% of the year. This pleasant climate supports outdoor activities year-round.
Winter
Min:
41°F
Max:
62°F
Spring
Min:
58°F
Max:
80°F
Summer
Min:
72°F
Max:
92°F
Fall
Min:
58°F
Max:
80°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
63 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Ponchatoula’s residents have a median household income of $48,800, and about 85% of adults have completed high school or higher. The city has an 18% poverty rate and an average commute time of just under 28 minutes, making it suitable for working families. Public transportation use is low, reflecting the city’s suburban and car-friendly character.
Median Income:
$31,000
Household Income:
$48,800
Family Income:
$58,300
Per Capita Income:
$23,500
Income Male:
$37,800
Income Female:
$29,200
Poverty Rate:
18.1%
Non English Speakers:
4.7%
Rent:
$1,050
Unemployment Rate:
5.4%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
27.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
85.3%
Bachelors or More:
18.8%
Education
How are the schools in Ponchatoula, LA?
Ponchatoula provides a solid educational foundation, with public schools like Ponchatoula High School and several elementary and junior high options serving local students. A private school and Southeastern Louisiana University, located just six miles away in Hammond, expand academic choices. The community values education, supporting both young families and those pursuing higher learning.
Public Schools
Name:
Ponchatoula High School
Street:
19452 LA-22
Phone:
985-386-3514
Students:
1,700
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.2
Name:
Ponchatoula Junior High School
Street:
315 E Oak St
Phone:
985-386-6364
Students:
670
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.8
Name:
D.C. Reeves Elementary School
Street:
13026 Hwy 442 W
Phone:
985-386-6433
Students:
600
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.0
Private Schools
Name:
St. Joseph School
Street:
175 N 8th St
Phone:
985-386-6421
Students:
295
Colleges
Name:
Southeastern Louisiana University
City:
Hammond
State:
LA
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
13,500
Healthcare
Healthcare access is strong, with North Oaks Medical Center nearby in Hammond offering comprehensive emergency and surgical services. The city has about 2.1 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 90% of the population is covered by health insurance. Ponchatoula’s healthcare index indicates reliable medical care and resources for its community.
Major Hospitals
Name:
North Oaks Medical Center
Address:
15790 Paul Vega MD Dr, Hammond, LA 70403
Phone:
(985) 345-2700
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.6%
Health Care Index:
78.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Ponchatoula, LA?
The local housing market is stable, with a median home price of $188,000 and an owner-occupied rate of over 67%, reflecting a strong sense of community. Home values have appreciated by 4.4% in the past year, and rental options remain accessible with an average two-bedroom rent of $1,050. Vacancy and foreclosure rates are low, further indicating a healthy housing environment.
Median Home Price:
$188,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,050
Owner Occupied Rate:
67.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.4%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents can access DMV services at the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles in nearby Hammond, offering convenient vehicle registration and licensing. The office provides comprehensive information and services both in person and online through the state’s ExpressLane portal. This ensures easy management of all motor vehicle needs for Ponchatoula locals.
State:
Louisiana
Department:
Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles
Address:
10506 Plaza Dr, Hammond, LA 70403
Phone:
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.