Lake Charles, LA
Population 81,679 · Louisiana
About Lake Charles, LA
Lake Charles is a mid-sized city in Louisiana with a population of 81,679 residents. The median household income is $56,864 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Lake Charles is 36.2 years.
Housing in Lake Charles has a median home value of $204,000 and median monthly rent of $1,090. Of the 40,146 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 19,444 owner-occupied and 12,401 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Lake Charles is 5.5% and the poverty rate is 23.2%. 29.4% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 17.9 minutes.
How Lake Charles Ranks in Louisiana
Cost of Living in Lake Charles, LA
Compared to national averages, Lake Charles has a median household income of $56,864 (24% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $204,000, which is 17% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,090 is 6% below the US average of $1,163. Within Louisiana, Lake Charles's income is 4% above the state average of $54,685, and home values are 30% above the state median of $156,619.
Why Live in Lake Charles, LA?
Lake Charles offers affordable housing with a median home value of $204,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,090/month, and short commute times averaging just 17.9 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($56,864) that falls below the national average. However, as a mid-sized city, Lake Charles provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Lake Charles has a population of 81,679 with a median age of 36.2 years. Compare Lake Charles with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Louisiana.
Similar Cities Near Lake Charles
Cities in Louisiana with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kenner | 65,113 | $64,099 | $241,800 | Compare |
| Bossier City | 62,832 | $55,130 | $192,300 | Compare |
| Monroe | 47,241 | $36,521 | $174,800 | Compare |
| Alexandria | 44,566 | $47,357 | $182,800 | Compare |
| Lafayette | 121,537 | $61,454 | $251,300 | Compare |
| Prairieville | 35,010 | $115,610 | $302,200 | Compare |
| Houma | 32,760 | $54,637 | $207,900 | Compare |
| Marrero | 31,866 | $45,633 | $173,200 | 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 Lake Charles
What is the population of Lake Charles, LA?
The population of Lake Charles, LA is 81,679 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Lake Charles?
The median household income in Lake Charles, LA is $56,864 per year.
What is the median home value in Lake Charles?
The median home value in Lake Charles, LA is $204,000.
What is the average rent in Lake Charles?
The median monthly rent in Lake Charles, LA is $1,090.
What is the unemployment rate in Lake Charles?
The unemployment rate in Lake Charles, LA is 5.5%.