Jena, LA
Population 4,139 · Louisiana
About Jena, LA
Jena is a small town located in Louisiana with a population of 4,139 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $85,955 per year, which is 14% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 39.7 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Jena features a median home value of $157,900, which is 36% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Jena in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $922, 21% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,886 total housing units, 89% are owner-occupied (1,441 units) and 11% are renter-occupied (179 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Jena shows an unemployment rate of 6.5%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 6.5%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Jena have an average one-way commute time of 42.1 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
33.7% of Jena 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 11.2% White, 3.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 8.7% Asian residents, with 7.3% of the population being foreign-born.
How Jena Ranks in Louisiana
Cost of Living in Jena, LA
Compared to national averages, Jena has a median household income of $85,955 (14% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $157,900, which is 36% below the national median. Monthly rent at $922 is 21% below the US average of $1,163. Within Louisiana, Jena's income is 57% above the state average of $54,685, and home values are 1% above the state median of $156,619.
Why Live in Jena, LA?
Jena offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $85,955, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $157,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $922/month. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 6.5%, better than the national average.
Jena has a population of 4,139 with a median age of 39.7 years. Compare Jena with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Louisiana.
Similar Cities Near Jena
Cities in Louisiana with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Church Point | 4,133 | $44,000 | $121,400 | Compare |
| Jonesboro | 4,092 | $36,458 | $84,000 | Compare |
| Eastwood | 4,057 | $80,000 | $252,700 | Compare |
| Winnfield | 4,042 | $46,089 | $74,000 | Compare |
| Amite City | 4,036 | $45,850 | $116,900 | Compare |
| Kaplan | 4,271 | $36,578 | $153,800 | Compare |
| Brownsville | 3,996 | $26,971 | $73,100 | Compare |
| Jackson | 3,976 | $37,981 | $121,700 | 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 Jena With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Jena
What is the population of Jena, LA?
The population of Jena, LA is 4,139 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 Jena?
The median household income in Jena, LA is $85,955 per year, which is 14% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Jena?
The median home value in Jena, LA is $157,900, which is 36% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Jena?
The median monthly rent in Jena, LA is $922, which is 21% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Jena?
The unemployment rate in Jena, LA is 6.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Jena, LA a good place to live?
Jena offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 4,139 and a median age of 39.7, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Jena, LA?
33.7% of residents in Jena 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 Jena?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Jena, LA: median home value is $157,900 (36% below national), median rent is $922/month, and median household income is $85,955. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Jena?
The poverty rate in Jena, LA is 6.5%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Jena, LA?
Jena's population is 11.2% White, 3.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 8.7% Asian, and 8.0% two or more races. 7.3% of residents are foreign-born.