City Profile
Natchitoches, Louisiana
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Natchitoches, Louisiana, holds the distinction of being the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana Purchase territory, established in 1714. This historic city, nestled along the Cane River Lake, is renowned for its French Creole architecture, charming downtown National Historic Landmark District, and vibrant cultural heritage. People are drawn to Natchitoches for its rich history, picturesque setting, and a strong sense of community, often experiencing a slower pace of life compared to larger urban centers. The city is also home to Northwestern State University of Louisiana, which significantly contributes to its youthful demographic and cultural landscape.
Louisiana, a state in the southern United States, is characterized by its unique blend of French, Spanish, African, and Creole cultures, evident in its vibrant music, cuisine, and festivals like Mardi Gras. The economy is significantly driven by the energy sector, particularly petroleum refining, oil drilling, and natural gas extraction, alongside strong manufacturing, healthcare, and agribusiness industries. Living in Louisiana generally offers a lower cost of living compared to the national average, with housing and utilities often more affordable. The climate is humid subtropical, featuring long, hot, and humid summers with frequent precipitation, and mild winters, though the state is prone to tropical storms and hurricanes. The lifestyle is often described as relaxed and welcoming, with a strong emphasis on community and outdoor activities.
How this 53/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 30 / 100 | 30.0 | 30% | 9.0 |
| Affordability | No usable reading — dataset average used | 75.1 | 25% | 18.8 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $37,133 Income needed to live here: no usable reading Unemployment rate: 5.6% | 55.0 | 20% | 11.0 |
| Growth | No usable reading — dataset average used | 56.4 | 15% | 8.5 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 60 / 100 | 60.0 | 10% | 6.0 |
| Overall score | 53.2 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Gemini (Tier 2 (reasoned), q=79), last refreshed
24 July 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Cost of Living
The cost of living in Natchitoches is generally considered to be lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordability. The median rent in the city is notably low, contributing significantly to the overall lower housing expenses. While specific cost indices for Natchitoches are not readily available, the lower median household income and individual earnings suggest that local costs are adjusted to the economic realities of its residents. Major expenditures for households in the broader Natchitoches Parish typically include shelter, transportation, food, healthcare, and utilities.
Income
Salary Insights
The job market in Natchitoches is primarily driven by sectors such as Educational Services, Health Care & Social Assistance, and Retail Trade. Other significant industries include Wood Product Manufacturing, Poultry & Poultry Products Manufacturing, and Equipment Manufacturing, with major employers like Natchitoches Regional Medical Center, Northwestern State University, RoyOMartin, and Pilgrim's. From 2023 to 2024, employment in Natchitoches Parish saw a slight decline of -0.474%. The median individual income in Natchitoches city was $22,157 in 2024, reflecting a job market with varying wage levels. The unemployment rate in Natchitoches Parish was 5.6% in May 2026, indicating a moderately active job search environment.
The average salary in Natchitoches is $22,157 per year.
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Transport
Getting around Natchitoches primarily relies on personal vehicles, as evidenced by the average car ownership of 2 cars per household and the fact that most people drive alone to work. The average commute time for residents is approximately 16.2 minutes, which is shorter than the national average. Public transportation options are limited, contributing to a higher car dependency. While specific walkability and transit scores are not available, the reliance on personal vehicles suggests that these scores would be relatively low, requiring residents to use cars for most errands and commutes.
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