Baton Rouge, LA

Very Low · 73

Louisiana · Population 223,699 · Updated March 2026

$1,044
Median Rent / Month
$49,944
Median Income
$224,500
Median Home Value
$1,043
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Baton Rouge

25.1%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Moderate
Rent takes 25-35% of median income — moderate affordability.

Tax Burden in Louisiana

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

4.25%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
4.45%
Sales Tax
0.55%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$12,528
Annual Rent
$2,123
State Income Tax
$1,235
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Baton Rouge is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 73 (where 100 equals the national median), Baton Rouge residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,044/month while earning a median household income of $49,944/year.

The median home value in Baton Rouge, LA is $224,500, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,043 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. With a rent-to-income ratio of 25.1%, Baton Rouge falls within the generally affordable range, though it's approaching the 30% burden threshold.

Louisiana has a moderate income tax rate of 4.25%. Combined with a 4.45% sales tax rate and 0.55% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Baton Rouge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Baton Rouge

What is the cost of living in Baton Rouge, LA?
The cost of living index in Baton Rouge, LA is 73 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $1,044, median household income is $49,944/year, and the median home value is $224,500.
Is Baton Rouge, LA affordable?
Yes, Baton Rouge is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 73. The rent-to-income ratio is 25.1%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Baton Rouge, LA?
The median gross rent in Baton Rouge, LA is $1,044 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $12,528.
What is the median household income in Baton Rouge?
The median household income in Baton Rouge, LA is $49,944 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in Louisiana?
Louisiana has a top income tax rate of 4.25%, a sales tax of 4.45%, and an effective property tax rate of 0.55%.

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