Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Start, LA
Considering a move to Start, LA? This small rural community of about 4,200 offers a relaxed lifestyle and very low housing costs, with median home prices around $97,500 and rent averaging $675. Expect a warm Southern climate with over 60% sunny days, and commute times just under 30 minutes. While cost of living is quite affordable, crime rates are higher than national averages, and educational attainment is modest. Local schools serve the community, and Monroe’s university and healthcare options are within easy reach.
Demographics - Start, LA
Start, LA is a small rural community with a population of about 4,200 people, a median age of 38.2, and a fairly balanced gender ratio. The population is predominantly White (67.1%) with a significant Black community (27.4%), and only 6.5% of residents primarily speak a language other than English at home. This creates a close-knit, diverse environment ideal for those seeking a quieter pace of life.
Population:
4,200
Density:
1,100 per sq mi
Median Age:
38.2
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
67.1%
Black:
27.4%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
4.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Start, LA?
Cost of living in Start is very affordable, with a median home value of $97,500 and average rent at just $675. Essential expenses like groceries, transportation, and utilities are below the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious families. State tax rates are moderate, and overall cost of living index is 81.2, well below the U.S. average.
Median House Value:
$97,500
Gross Rent:
$675
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$2,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$920
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$345
State Taxes:
Low:
2%
|
High:
6%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.2
Grocery:
94.7
Housing:
52.5
Utilities:
104.1
Transportation:
99.0
Health Care:
91.4
Miscellaneous:
89.0
Crime
Is Start, LA a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Start are higher than national averages, with a property crime rate of 2,430 per 100,000 residents and a violent crime chance of 1 in 256. Residents should be aware of these factors and take appropriate safety measures. The small-town setting, however, often fosters strong community ties.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
390
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,430
Crime Index:
2,820
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 256
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 41
Weather
What is the weather like in Start, LA year-round?
Start enjoys a classic Southern climate with mild winters averaging 38°F to 60°F and hot, humid summers peaking in the low 90s. The area receives ample rainfall—over 56 inches annually—and about 62% of days are sunny, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Spring and fall bring comfortable temperatures, making the region pleasant much of the year.
Winter
Min:
38°F
Max:
60°F
Spring
Min:
55°F
Max:
78°F
Summer
Min:
72°F
Max:
93°F
Fall
Min:
54°F
Max:
78°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
56.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Households in Start typically earn a median income of $42,500, with a notable poverty rate of 24.1%. Most residents commute about 28 minutes to work, and public transportation usage is minimal. The community is largely educated at the high school level, and the area’s friendly, small-town vibe is supported by affordable living costs.
Median Income:
$26,300
Household Income:
$42,500
Family Income:
$49,500
Per Capita Income:
$20,400
Income Male:
$32,000
Income Female:
$24,500
Poverty Rate:
24.1%
Non English Speakers:
6.5%
Rent:
$675
Unemployment Rate:
5.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
28.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
81.4%
Bachelors or More:
14.9%
Education
How are the schools in Start, LA?
Start is served by Start Elementary School, offering a supportive learning environment with a student-teacher ratio of 17.8. While private schools are not present in town, higher education is accessible at the University of Louisiana at Monroe, just 24 miles away. The community places value on education, with local schools providing foundational learning for area children.
Public Schools
Name:
Start Elementary School
Street:
9679 Hwy 80, Start, LA 71279
Phone:
318-728-6177
Students:
440
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.8
Colleges
Name:
University of Louisiana at Monroe
City:
Monroe
State:
LA
Distance:
24 miles
Students:
8,800
Healthcare
Residents have access to Richardson Medical Center in nearby Rayville for general and emergency care, and there are about 1.8 physicians per 1,000 people. Health insurance coverage is strong at 87.2%, ensuring most families have access to essential services. Healthcare in the area is reliable and conveniently located for Start’s residents.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Richardson Medical Center
Address:
254 Highway 3048, Rayville, LA 71269
Phone:
(318) 728-4181
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.8
Health Insurance Coverage:
87.2%
Health Care Index:
69.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Start, LA?
Start’s housing market is highly accessible, with a median home price of $97,500 and a strong owner-occupancy rate of 64.1%. Rental options are affordable, averaging $675 for a two-bedroom, and the area sees slow but steady home appreciation. Low vacancy and foreclosure rates make it an attractive place for stable, long-term living.
Median Home Price:
$97,500
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$675
Owner Occupied Rate:
64.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.9%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents handle driver and vehicle services through the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles in nearby Delhi, accessible at 100 Veterans Blvd. The office provides standard DMV services and information can be found on the state website. This regional location ensures essential motor vehicle needs are met conveniently.
State:
Louisiana
Department:
Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles
Address:
100 Veterans Blvd, Delhi, LA 71232
Phone:
(318) 878-5538
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.