Cost of Living in Metairie, LA 2026

Affordability

How far your income goes in Metairie

19.0%

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

$13,908

Annual Rent

$3,113

State Income Tax

$1,699

Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Metairie offers a below-average cost of living, giving residents more purchasing power compared to many US cities. With a cost index of 88 (where 100 equals the national median), Metairie residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,159/month while earning a median household income of $73,256/year.

The median home value in Metairie, LA is $308,900, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,186 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 19.0% 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 Metairie.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Metairie

What is the cost of living in Metairie, LA?

The cost of living index in Metairie, LA is 88 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $1,159, median household income is $73,256/year, and the median home value is $308,900.

Is Metairie, LA affordable?

Yes, Metairie is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 88. The rent-to-income ratio is 19.0%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.

What is the average rent in Metairie, LA?

The median gross rent in Metairie, LA is $1,159 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $13,908.

What is the median household income in Metairie?

The median household income in Metairie, LA is $73,256 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%.

Metairie, LA

Affordability

Tax Burden in Louisiana

Estimated Annual Costs

Cost of Living Overview

Frequently Asked Questions

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