Overall
Louisiana is a state with plenty of best retirement towns. The state is one of hte most active in terms of marketing itself to retirees, and has many resources to help match you up with a top Louisiana retirement community. This page will acquaint you with some basic facts about retirement in Louisiana. In the aftermath of Hurrican Katrina the dollar will go far in
Louisiana; you will be very well welcomed to the state. New Orleans and Baton Rouge are the big cities and have a lot to offer in terms of culture, restaurants, and entertainment

Louisiana Front Porch
Climate
The Louisiana climate is characterized as humid sub-tropical. It is influenced heavily by the gulf. Summers are hot and humid and winters are mild. As we know from Katrina, the coast can be impacted by hurricanes.
Per Capita Income
This statistic gives information about cost of living - assuming that well off states cost more. In 2004 the LA per capita income was almost $28,000, almost near the bottom of all states.
Taxes
The LA top marginal income tax rate ranges from 2% to 6%. Sales tax is 4%. Political subdivisions can add a sales tax to this. Most public sector and military pensions are exempt from state income tax. Part of private sector pensions are exempt. People over 65 can qualify (with income limitations) to have the assessed value of their home frozen for property taxe purposes. There is an inheritance tax.
List of Louisiana Certified Retirement Communities
Louisiana has a certified retirement community program. In this type of program the state encourages communities to meet certain criteria so they can attract retirees to the state.
Louisiana has chosen seven communities to participate in Lt. Governor Landrieu's new Certified Retirement Community program. The selected communities: Covington, Crowley, Lake Charles, Thibodaux, St. Landry Parish, Natchitoches Parish and Jefferson Parish. Additional towns that Louisiana is promoting on its website for retirement include Alexandria, Baton Rouge, Houma, Iberville, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Monroe, Natchitoches,
New Orleans, New Iberia, Ruston, Shreveport, St. Francisville, and Vacherie.
Best retirement communities
- Leesville and DeRidder are two additional towns that have attracted many retirees. These communities have benefited greatly from the infrastructure and recreational opportunities built for Fort Polk.
- Natchitoches - this town has old world charm and a historic district. It is on a lake
- Lafayette - This college town is referred to as the “Cajun Capital City” due to its location in the heart of Louisiana's Cajun country in the south central section of the state.
- St. Francisville - St. Francisville is located on the Mississippi River and is one of the most beautiful cities in the South. Its restored homes and churches are lovely.
Find more helpful information on more than 40 different state retirement guides
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