Patterson, LA
Population 5,801 · Louisiana
About Patterson, LA
Patterson is a small town located in Louisiana with a population of 5,801 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $48,002 per year, which is 36% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 32.1 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 Patterson features a median home value of $137,200, which is 44% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Patterson one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $745, 36% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,369 total housing units, 55% are owner-occupied (1,078 units) and 45% are renter-occupied (875 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Patterson shows an unemployment rate of 7.2%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 26.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Patterson have an average one-way commute time of 29.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
7.3% of Patterson 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 0.1% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.4% Asian residents, with 1.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Patterson, LA
Compared to national averages, Patterson has a median household income of $48,002 (36% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $137,200, which is 44% below the national median. Monthly rent at $745 is 36% below the US average of $1,163. Within Louisiana, Patterson's income is 12% below the state average of $54,685, and home values are 12% below the state median of $156,619.
Why Live in Patterson, LA?
Patterson offers affordable housing with a median home value of $137,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $745/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($48,002) that falls below the national average. However, Patterson’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Patterson has a population of 5,801 with a median age of 32.1 years. Compare Patterson with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Louisiana.
Similar Cities Near Patterson
Cities in Louisiana with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Larose | 5,937 | $71,250 | $181,600 | Compare |
| Leesville | 5,610 | $38,292 | $109,700 | Compare |
| Elmwood | 6,022 | $83,268 | $188,300 | Compare |
| Schriever | 6,052 | $58,950 | $176,200 | Compare |
| Inniswold | 6,061 | $101,149 | $323,300 | Compare |
| Gray | 5,524 | $57,472 | $155,200 | Compare |
| Tallulah | 6,124 | $32,624 | $83,900 | Compare |
| Plaquemine | 6,136 | $76,857 | $181,600 | 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 Patterson With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Patterson
What is the population of Patterson, LA?
The population of Patterson, LA is 5,801 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 Patterson?
The median household income in Patterson, LA is $48,002 per year, which is 36% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Patterson?
The median home value in Patterson, LA is $137,200, which is 44% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Patterson?
The median monthly rent in Patterson, LA is $745, which is 36% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Patterson?
The unemployment rate in Patterson, LA is 7.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Patterson, LA a good place to live?
Patterson offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 5,801 and a median age of 32.1, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Patterson, LA?
7.3% of residents in Patterson 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 Patterson?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Patterson, LA: median home value is $137,200 (44% below national), median rent is $745/month, and median household income is $48,002. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Patterson?
The poverty rate in Patterson, LA is 26.4%, 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 Patterson, LA?
Patterson's population is 0.1% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.4% Asian, and 42.1% two or more races. 1.1% of residents are foreign-born.