Lafayette, LA, is not only one of the most desirable places to visit, but it’s also a great place to live. Its mix of natural beauty, friendly Southern charm, rich cultural history, and proximity to some of the country’s most enticing destinations are major attractions.

Why Live in Lafayette?

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Y Lafayette Sign

Situated in the middle of Louisiana’s celebrated Cajun Country, Lafayette offers a strong culture with a welcoming atmosphere and down-home charm. Its Cajun and Creole heritage have created a lively backdrop of cherished traditions, including food, arts, music, and festivals that are a core part of the community.  

A moderate climate with warm summers and mild winters makes this an ideal place to experience nature. There are plenty of parks, bayous trails, the nearby Gulf Coast, and other outdoor experiences to enjoy.

Best Things To Do In Lafayette

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Lebeau Zydeco Festival

Living in Lafayette provides cultural, culinary, and outdoor events galore. Many festivals celebrating everything unique to the area are free to attend. Of course, there’s everyone’s favorite carnival, Mardi Gras, a yearly celebration of life that turns the city into one of the liveliest spots on the planet. 

Outdoor enthusiasts love the variety of opportunities nearby, especially the neighboring Atchafalaya Basin, where boating, fishing, camping, birding, wildlife spotting, and simply enjoying nature are all on the menu.

Lafayette Neighborhoods

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Backyard of a Home on the Vermilion River

Along the banks of the Vermilion River lies Bendel Gardens, a quiet subdivision with many of the same amenities as downtown, making it one of the city’s most popular places to live. 

Greenbriar Estates is a lively neighborhood tucked away along West Bayou Parkway. It is a short drive from downtown but has plenty of convenient amenities and the University of Louisiana at Lafayette is close by. 

River Ranch is a planned 300-acre community on Lafayette’s south side that embraces New Urbanism concepts in its upscale mix of condos and single-family housing. The blend of mixed-use design includes walkable streets and a town center blend of retailers and apartments. 

Whittington Oaks is an established community south of downtown where mature oaks line tranquil streets. The relative affordability and mix of housing make this a thriving area.

The historic Saint Streets neighborhood stands out for its lively, artistic nature. It features a collection of original homes that have been lovingly maintained to create a lovely, Southern ambiance.

Cost Of Living

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Family of 4 Eating Pizza at Dean-O's Pizza

Lafayette's cost of living is lower than the national average due to attractive housing, groceries, and utilities prices. The city’s economic stability provides a balanced cost of living that appeals to families, young professionals, and retirees alike.

Schools & Employment

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LITE Center

Families are attracted to Lafayette's diverse, quality school system, which includes a range of public, magnet, and charter schools. The University of Louisiana at Lafayette has wide-ranging undergraduate and graduate programs. 

Key industries, including healthcare, energy, and technology, provide stability in growing fields. The university supports an expanding tech sector and fosters startups.

Family of 3 at Vermilionville near Bayou Vermilion

Lafayette’s welcoming community and overall safety make it an excellent place to raise a family. The city has a lower crime rate when compared to other urban areas in the state. The range of amenities that contribute to quality of life such as parks, recreational centers, family-friendly events, and outdoor exploration opportunities make for a positive environment. Tight-knit neighborhoods and a strong communal sense create a sense of belonging that can span generations. 

From its growing economy to the annual music festivals in town, the city of Lafayette is a special place to live whether you’re a young professional, working family, or retiree.