Lafayette, LA
Population 121,537 · Louisiana
About Lafayette, LA
Lafayette is a major city in Louisiana with a population of 121,537 residents. The median household income is $61,454 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Lafayette is 37.1 years.
Housing in Lafayette has a median home value of $251,300 and median monthly rent of $1,065. Of the 58,905 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 28,842 owner-occupied and 23,638 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Lafayette is 5.1% and the poverty rate is 19.1%. 40.6% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 19.9 minutes.
How Lafayette Ranks in Louisiana
Cost of Living in Lafayette, LA
Compared to national averages, Lafayette has a median household income of $61,454 (18% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $251,300, which is 3% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,065 is 8% below the US average of $1,163. Within Louisiana, Lafayette's income is 12% above the state average of $54,685, and home values are 60% above the state median of $156,619.
Why Live in Lafayette, LA?
Lafayette offers rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,065/month, and a well-educated community where 40.6% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and short commute times averaging just 19.9 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($61,454) that falls below the national average. However, as a major city, Lafayette provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Lafayette has a population of 121,537 with a median age of 37.1 years. Compare Lafayette with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Louisiana.
Similar Cities Near Lafayette
Cities in Louisiana with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metairie | 138,995 | $73,256 | $308,900 | Compare |
| Lake Charles | 81,679 | $56,864 | $204,000 | Compare |
| Kenner | 65,113 | $64,099 | $241,800 | Compare |
| Bossier City | 62,832 | $55,130 | $192,300 | Compare |
| Shreveport | 183,483 | $48,465 | $178,100 | Compare |
| Monroe | 47,241 | $36,521 | $174,800 | Compare |
| Alexandria | 44,566 | $47,357 | $182,800 | Compare |
| Prairieville | 35,010 | $115,610 | $302,200 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Lafayette
What is the population of Lafayette, LA?
The population of Lafayette, LA is 121,537 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Lafayette?
The median household income in Lafayette, LA is $61,454 per year.
What is the median home value in Lafayette?
The median home value in Lafayette, LA is $251,300.
What is the average rent in Lafayette?
The median monthly rent in Lafayette, LA is $1,065.
What is the unemployment rate in Lafayette?
The unemployment rate in Lafayette, LA is 5.1%.