Lake Charles, LA

Very Low · 71

Louisiana · Population 81,679 · Updated March 2026

$1,090
Median Rent / Month
$56,864
Median Income
$204,000
Median Home Value
$992
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Lake Charles

23.0%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Affordable
Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

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

$13,080
Annual Rent
$2,417
State Income Tax
$1,122
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Lake Charles is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 71 (where 100 equals the national median), Lake Charles residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,090/month while earning a median household income of $56,864/year.

The median home value in Lake Charles, LA is $204,000, with typical monthly owner costs around $992 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 23.0% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

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 Lake Charles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Lake Charles

What is the cost of living in Lake Charles, LA?
The cost of living index in Lake Charles, LA is 71 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $1,090, median household income is $56,864/year, and the median home value is $204,000.
Is Lake Charles, LA affordable?
Yes, Lake Charles is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 71. The rent-to-income ratio is 23.0%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Lake Charles, LA?
The median gross rent in Lake Charles, LA is $1,090 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $13,080.
What is the median household income in Lake Charles?
The median household income in Lake Charles, LA is $56,864 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%.