Why Live in Baton Rouge
Baton Rouge offers a rich blend of cultural attractions, starting with the nation's tallest state capitol building, which provides panoramic city views from its observation deck. The historic Old State Capitol showcases unique gothic architecture with free admission, while the USS KIDD Veterans Museum lets visitors explore a restored Fletcher-class destroyer. Nature lovers can explore the Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center's trails or visit Mike the Tiger's habitat at LSU. The dining scene features upscale options like Ruth's Chris Steak House and Sullivan's Steakhouse, alongside local favorites such as Parrain's Seafood Restaurant and Mansurs on the Boulevard, known for authentic Creole cuisine.
The housing market offers options across various price points. The median sale price in Baton Rouge is $269,300, with median single family home prices at $280,000. Townhomes have a median price of $260,000, while condos range from $90,000 for one bedroom units to $140,000 for two bedrooms. The Garden District commands higher prices with a median of $320,000 for single family homes, while Bocage homes have a median price of $345,000. Oak Hills Place presents the highest median prices at $380,000.
Baton Rouge offers an affordable cost of living at 7.6% below the national average. A family with school age children needs approximately $97,000 annually to live comfortably, while renters should aim for $53,000. The city features excellent schools, including the A+ rated Episcopal School of Baton Rouge and Baton Rouge Magnet High School. Louisiana State University and Southern University add to the educational landscape. The combined sales tax rate is 10.12%, including a 5% state rate and 5.12% local rate. Property taxes remain competitive, and gasoline costs $2.977 per gallon, 8.2% below the national average.
Home Trends in Baton Rouge, LA
On average, homes in Baton Rouge, LA sell after 80 days on the market compared to the national average of 50 days. The median sale price for homes in Baton Rouge, LA over the last 12 months is $269,900, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Median Sale Price
$269,900
Median Single Family Sale Price
$279,995
Median Townhouse Sale Price
$259,990
Median 2 Bedroom Sale Price
$142,270
Median 1 Bedroom Sale Price
$90,950
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$160
Number of Homes for Sale
1,666
Last 12 months Home Sales
11,297
Median List Price
$279,900
Median Change From 1st List Price
2%
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
2%