Empire, LA
Population 1,218 · Louisiana
About Empire, LA
Empire is a small town located in Louisiana with a population of 1,218 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $45,018 per year, which is 40% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 27.7 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 Empire features a median home value of $84,700, which is 65% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Empire one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 524 total housing units, 90% are owner-occupied (384 units) and 10% are renter-occupied (43 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Empire shows an unemployment rate of 3.9%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 28.8%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Empire have an average one-way commute time of 20.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
8.7% of Empire 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 0.0% White, 3.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.5% Asian residents, with 3.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Empire, LA
Compared to national averages, Empire has a median household income of $45,018 (40% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $84,700, which is 65% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Louisiana, Empire's income is 18% below the state average of $54,685, and home values are 46% below the state median of $156,619.
Why Live in Empire, LA?
Empire offers affordable housing with a median home value of $84,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and short commute times averaging just 20.1 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($45,018) that falls below the national average. However, Empire’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Empire has a population of 1,218 with a median age of 27.7 years. Compare Empire with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Louisiana.
Similar Cities Near Empire
Cities in Louisiana with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Sarpy | 1,200 | $54,716 | $121,700 | Compare |
| Pine Prairie | 1,242 | $32,917 | $153,700 | Compare |
| Urania | 1,186 | $67,500 | $104,000 | Compare |
| Mansura | 1,254 | $20,938 | $103,600 | Compare |
| Deville | 1,261 | $0 | $0 | Compare |
| Montegut | 1,264 | $32,500 | $105,000 | Compare |
| Slaughter | 1,264 | $80,417 | $234,300 | Compare |
| Bernice | 1,170 | $24,278 | $90,300 | 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 Empire With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Empire
What is the population of Empire, LA?
The population of Empire, LA is 1,218 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Louisiana.
What is the median household income in Empire?
The median household income in Empire, LA is $45,018 per year, which is 40% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Empire?
The median home value in Empire, LA is $84,700, which is 65% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Empire?
The median monthly rent in Empire, LA is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Empire?
The unemployment rate in Empire, LA is 3.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Empire, LA a good place to live?
Empire offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,218 and a median age of 27.7, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Empire, LA?
8.7% of residents in Empire 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 Empire?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Empire, LA: median home value is $84,700 (65% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $45,018. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Empire?
The poverty rate in Empire, LA is 28.8%, 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 Empire, LA?
Empire's population is 0.0% White, 3.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.5% Asian, and 47.5% two or more races. 3.1% of residents are foreign-born.