Central, LA
Population 29,603 · Louisiana
About Central, LA
Central is a mid-sized city located in Louisiana with a population of 29,603 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $90,091 per year, which is 20% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 40.3 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Central features a median home value of $270,700, which is 11% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Central in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,373, 18% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 12,116 total housing units, 89% are owner-occupied (10,099 units) and 11% are renter-occupied (1,210 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Central shows an unemployment rate of 1.2%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 5.7%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Central have an average one-way commute time of 28.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
32.7% of Central residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 1.4% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, and 2.7% Asian residents, with 2.1% of the population being foreign-born.
How Central Ranks in Louisiana
Cost of Living in Central, LA
Compared to national averages, Central has a median household income of $90,091 (20% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $270,700, which is 11% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,373 is 18% above the US average of $1,163. Within Louisiana, Central's income is 65% above the state average of $54,685, and home values are 73% above the state median of $156,619.
Why Live in Central, LA?
Central offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $90,091, well above the national average, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.2%, and a low poverty rate of 5.7%, better than the national average.
Central has a population of 29,603 with a median age of 40.3 years. Compare Central with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Louisiana.
Similar Cities Near Central
Cities in Louisiana with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Slidell | 28,664 | $66,657 | $207,800 | Compare |
| Laplace | 28,480 | $68,028 | $188,900 | Compare |
| New Iberia | 27,926 | $50,802 | $150,300 | Compare |
| Marrero | 31,866 | $45,633 | $173,200 | Compare |
| Houma | 32,760 | $54,637 | $207,900 | Compare |
| Terrytown | 25,844 | $56,944 | $212,000 | Compare |
| Prairieville | 35,010 | $115,610 | $302,200 | Compare |
| Chalmette | 22,447 | $56,875 | $203,800 | 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 Central With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Central
What is the population of Central, LA?
The population of Central, LA is 29,603 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 Central?
The median household income in Central, LA is $90,091 per year, which is 20% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Central?
The median home value in Central, LA is $270,700, which is 11% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Central?
The median monthly rent in Central, LA is $1,373, which is 18% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Central?
The unemployment rate in Central, LA is 1.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Central, LA a good place to live?
Central offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 29,603 and a median age of 40.3, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Central, LA?
32.7% of residents in Central 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 Central?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Central, LA: median home value is $270,700 (11% above national), median rent is $1,373/month, and median household income is $90,091. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Central?
The poverty rate in Central, LA is 5.7%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Central, LA?
Central's population is 1.4% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, 2.7% Asian, and 11.6% two or more races. 2.1% of residents are foreign-born.