Forest, LA
Population 336 · Louisiana
About Forest, LA
Forest is a small community located in Louisiana with a population of 336 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $45,625 per year, which is 39% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 25.7 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 Forest features a median home value of $95,000, which is 61% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Forest one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $775, 33% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 114 total housing units, 65% are owner-occupied (64 units) and 35% are renter-occupied (34 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Forest shows an unemployment rate of 20.2%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 13.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Forest have an average one-way commute time of 21.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
13.9% of Forest 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, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 1.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Forest, LA
Compared to national averages, Forest has a median household income of $45,625 (39% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $95,000, which is 61% below the national median. Monthly rent at $775 is 33% below the US average of $1,163. Within Louisiana, Forest's income is 17% below the state average of $54,685, and home values are 39% below the state median of $156,619.
Why Live in Forest, LA?
Forest offers affordable housing with a median home value of $95,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $775/month, and short commute times averaging just 21.6 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($45,625) that falls below the national average. However, Forest’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Forest has a population of 336 with a median age of 25.7 years. Compare Forest with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Louisiana.
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Cities in Louisiana with a similar population size.
Demographics
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Economy & Education
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Other Cities in Louisiana
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Forest
What is the population of Forest, LA?
The population of Forest, LA is 336 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Louisiana.
What is the median household income in Forest?
The median household income in Forest, LA is $45,625 per year, which is 39% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Forest?
The median home value in Forest, LA is $95,000, which is 61% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Forest?
The median monthly rent in Forest, LA is $775, which is 33% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Forest?
The unemployment rate in Forest, LA is 20.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Forest, LA a good place to live?
Forest offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 336 and a median age of 25.7, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Forest, LA?
13.9% of residents in Forest 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 Forest?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Forest, LA: median home value is $95,000 (61% below national), median rent is $775/month, and median household income is $45,625. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Forest?
The poverty rate in Forest, LA is 13.4%, 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 Forest, LA?
Forest's population is 0.0% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 6.3% two or more races. 1.2% of residents are foreign-born.