Baker, LA
Population 12,322 · Louisiana
About Baker, LA
Baker is a mid-sized city located in Louisiana with a population of 12,322 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $59,451 per year, which is 21% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 32.4 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Baker features a median home value of $146,700, which is 40% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Baker one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,031, 11% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 4,977 total housing units, 70% are owner-occupied (2,964 units) and 30% are renter-occupied (1,294 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Baker shows an unemployment rate of 14.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 22.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Baker have an average one-way commute time of 25.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
20.2% of Baker residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 1.0% White, 0.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.8% Asian residents, with 0.5% of the population being foreign-born.
How Baker Ranks in Louisiana
Cost of Living in Baker, LA
Compared to national averages, Baker has a median household income of $59,451 (21% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $146,700, which is 40% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,031 is 11% below the US average of $1,163. Within Louisiana, Baker's income is 9% above the state average of $54,685, and home values are 6% below the state median of $156,619.
Why Live in Baker, LA?
Baker offers affordable housing with a median home value of $146,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,031/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($59,451) that falls below the national average. However, Baker’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Baker has a population of 12,322 with a median age of 32.4 years. Compare Baker with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Louisiana.
Similar Cities Near Baker
Cities in Louisiana with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gardere | 12,130 | $60,694 | $250,600 | Compare |
| Claiborne | 12,647 | $69,173 | $214,100 | Compare |
| Gonzales | 12,748 | $66,152 | $212,800 | Compare |
| West Monroe | 12,837 | $46,663 | $174,400 | Compare |
| Destrehan | 11,786 | $100,189 | $303,400 | Compare |
| Woodmere | 11,775 | $73,615 | $187,000 | Compare |
| Mandeville | 12,931 | $89,122 | $363,300 | Compare |
| Minden | 11,604 | $29,597 | $116,700 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Louisiana
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Baker With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Baker
What is the population of Baker, LA?
The population of Baker, LA is 12,322 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Louisiana.
What is the median household income in Baker?
The median household income in Baker, LA is $59,451 per year, which is 21% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Baker?
The median home value in Baker, LA is $146,700, which is 40% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Baker?
The median monthly rent in Baker, LA is $1,031, which is 11% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Baker?
The unemployment rate in Baker, LA is 14.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Baker, LA a good place to live?
Baker offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 12,322 and a median age of 32.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Baker, LA?
20.2% of residents in Baker aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Baker?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Baker, LA: median home value is $146,700 (40% below national), median rent is $1,031/month, and median household income is $59,451. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Baker?
The poverty rate in Baker, LA is 22.2%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Baker, LA?
Baker's population is 1.0% White, 0.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.8% Asian, and 86.4% two or more races. 0.5% of residents are foreign-born.