Merrydale, LA
Population 9,149 · Louisiana
About Merrydale, LA
Merrydale is a small town located in Louisiana with a population of 9,149 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $41,986 per year, which is 44% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.6 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 Merrydale features a median home value of $124,300, which is 49% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Merrydale one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,187, 2% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 3,705 total housing units, 77% are owner-occupied (2,405 units) and 23% are renter-occupied (725 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Merrydale shows an unemployment rate of 25.2%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 29.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Merrydale have an average one-way commute time of 22.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
16.9% of Merrydale 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 1.6% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.2% Asian residents, with 0.8% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Merrydale, LA
Compared to national averages, Merrydale has a median household income of $41,986 (44% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $124,300, which is 49% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,187 is 2% above the US average of $1,163. Within Louisiana, Merrydale's income is 23% below the state average of $54,685, and home values are 21% below the state median of $156,619.
Why Live in Merrydale, LA?
Merrydale offers affordable housing with a median home value of $124,300, below the US average of $244,900, and short commute times averaging just 22.9 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($41,986) that falls below the national average. However, Merrydale’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Merrydale has a population of 9,149 with a median age of 35.6 years. Compare Merrydale with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Louisiana.
Similar Cities Near Merrydale
Cities in Louisiana with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eunice | 9,261 | $36,356 | $120,600 | Compare |
| Harahan | 8,939 | $78,222 | $309,400 | Compare |
| Denham Springs | 9,362 | $77,418 | $188,700 | Compare |
| Bastrop | 9,408 | $30,069 | $85,400 | Compare |
| Village St. George | 8,880 | $94,191 | $248,600 | Compare |
| Jennings | 9,679 | $45,194 | $140,800 | Compare |
| DeRidder | 9,812 | $58,596 | $160,800 | Compare |
| Westwego | 8,382 | $49,291 | $168,600 | 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 Merrydale With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Merrydale
What is the population of Merrydale, LA?
The population of Merrydale, LA is 9,149 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 Merrydale?
The median household income in Merrydale, LA is $41,986 per year, which is 44% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Merrydale?
The median home value in Merrydale, LA is $124,300, which is 49% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Merrydale?
The median monthly rent in Merrydale, LA is $1,187, which is 2% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Merrydale?
The unemployment rate in Merrydale, LA is 25.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Merrydale, LA a good place to live?
Merrydale offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 9,149 and a median age of 35.6, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Merrydale, LA?
16.9% of residents in Merrydale 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 Merrydale?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Merrydale, LA: median home value is $124,300 (49% below national), median rent is $1,187/month, and median household income is $41,986. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Merrydale?
The poverty rate in Merrydale, LA is 29.9%, 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 Merrydale, LA?
Merrydale's population is 1.6% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.2% Asian, and 97.3% two or more races. 0.8% of residents are foreign-born.