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Living in Louisiana: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Louisiana | Expat Exchange
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Living in Louisiana

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Feb 19, 2023

Summary: People often describe life in Louisiana as vibrant, diverse, and full of culture. People love the unique cuisine, music, and festivals that Louisiana has to offer. The cost of living in Louisiana is generally lower than the national average, with the median home price being around $150,000. The approximate population of Louisiana is 4.6 million, and the largest cities are New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport, and Lafayette. The cons of living in Louisiana include the high crime rate in some areas, the risk of hurricanes and flooding, and the high poverty rate. Additionally, the state has a high rate of uninsured residents, and the public school system is often underfunded.

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

Is the cost of living in Louisiana high?

We asked people about the cost of living in Louisiana, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Louisiana is generally considered to be quite reasonable, with essential goods and services including groceries, transportation, and utilities often being reasonably priced. The rental price of a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Louisiana is typically around $800 a month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment will typically cost around $1,100 a month. The cost to eat dinner at a moderately priced restaurant can range from about $25-$35 for two people, depending on the restaurant," said one expat.

What type of recreational facilities are in Louisiana?

When we asked people living in Louisiana about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"In Louisiana, residents can enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as parks, golf courses, beaches, and lakes. There are also many trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Louisiana also has a number of museums, art galleries, and historic sites for visitors to explore. For those looking for a more active experience, there are plenty of opportunities for fishing, hunting, and boating. Louisiana also has a vibrant music and nightlife scene, with plenty of live music venues, bars, and clubs," remarked one expat in Louisiana.

What is the weather like in Louisiana?

"The weather in Louisiana is typically hot and humid in the summer months, with temperatures often reaching into the 90s. In the winter, temperatures can drop into the 40s and 50s, with occasional snowfall in the northern parts of the state. Spring and fall are generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the 50s to the 80s. Louisiana is also prone to tropical storms and hurricanes, especially during the summer and fall months," said one expat living in Louisiana.

Are there good restaurants in Louisiana?

"One of Louisiana's favorite restaurants is Galatoire's, located in the heart of New Orleans. Founded in 1905, this iconic restaurant is known for its classic Creole cuisine and its lively atmosphere. The menu features dishes such as shrimp remoulade, oysters Rockefeller, and crawfish bisque. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of wines and cocktails. Another popular restaurant in Louisiana is Commander's Palace, located in the Garden District of New Orleans. This restaurant is known for its award-winning Creole cuisine and its elegant atmosphere. The menu features dishes such as turtle soup, blackened redfish, and bread pudding. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of wines and cocktails. Cochon, located in New Orleans, is another favorite restaurant in Louisiana. This restaurant is known for its rustic Cajun cuisine and its cozy atmosphere. The menu features dishes such as gumbo, fried alligator, and crawfish etouffee. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of wines and cocktails. Finally, Antoine's, located in the French Quarter of New Orleans, is a beloved restaurant in Louisiana. This restaurant is known for its classic Creole cuisine and its elegant atmosphere. The menu features dishes such as oysters Rockefeller, crawfish bisque, and shrimp remoulade. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of wines and cocktails," said one expat living in Louisiana.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Louisiana?

"People living in Louisiana typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local supermarkets, convenience stores, and department stores. Additionally, many people in Louisiana shop at farmers markets, specialty stores, and online retailers," remarked one expat in Louisiana.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Louisiana?

"If you are looking to visit Louisiana for a period of time, you must first obtain a visa. Depending on the country of your origin, there may be different visa requirements and types of visa you can obtain. The type of visa you need to apply for depends on what activities you are planning to undertake while in Louisiana; for example, if you wish to work, you will require a work visa. To apply for a visa, you will need to submit an application to the appropriate U.S. consulate or embassy. This will require you to provide proof of your identity, a valid passport, a photograph, and evidence that you will have sufficient funds for the duration of your stay. Residency in Louisiana requires a different process. If you are interested in staying in Louisiana on a permanent basis, you may apply for legal residence by submitting an application to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. For this application, you will need to provide documentary proof of your identity, a valid passport, proof of your financial security, pass a medical exam, and potentially appear for an interview. You may be required to pay certain fees, as well as wait for the decision for your residency application," commented one expat who moved to Louisiana.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Louisiana?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Louisiana can be expensive. The cost of health insurance premiums in Louisiana is higher than the national average, and the cost of healthcare services can also be high. Additionally, Louisiana has some of the highest out-of-pocket costs for healthcare services in the country. These costs can be a burden for many people in the state, especially those who are uninsured or underinsured," said an expat in Louisiana.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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