Lafayette

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Lafayette, LA

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A college town rich with culture and history.

University History Students Restaurants Family-Friendly Attractions

Lafayette is located in southern Louisiana. It has the rich culture you would expect from a Louisiana town. Also, because it is a college town, it is very much concerned with education. People of all ages, cultures, and personality types will find that Lafayette is a pleasant place to live.

Lafayette has many beautiful neighborhoods. Different people like different areas of the city for their own reasons. However, the south side of the city is typically the most sought after. The area surrounding the University of Louisiana – Lafayette is known as the university area. This area, as well as Lafayette’s Downtown District, is more urban in nature than other parts of Lafayette. It is possible to walk to the school, local restaurants, shops, and art galleries. Broadmore is mostly residential and home to people of many different ages. This is also where the Thomas Park Recreation Center is located. Broussard, Youngsville, and Scott are small cities on the outskirts of Lafayette. Many people enjoy these areas as well.

There is a ton of fun things to do in Laffy. Lafayette is a city that takes education seriously, and that is apparent in the attractions it has to offer. The Zoo of Acadiana is a favorite for local residents as well as people all over Louisiana. It has several animals and hosts many special events. A train brings you on a tour all around the zoo for more interactive fun. The Science Museum in Lafayette is a great place to spend the afternoon. There are often special exhibits the visit so be sure to be on the lookout for your favorites. Also, for the Louisiana history buffs, experiencing Lafeyette just isn’t complete without a tour of one of the authentic Acadian villages. There is Acadian Village and Vermillionville. The area is set up with buildings and items that the Acadians would have had. Costumed tour guides often play the part as they guide you in exploring the past. Biology was never quite as fun as a visit to one of the Louisiana swamps. You can take a swamp tour to see nature at its finest with Cajun Swamp Tours. Lastly, for a bit of fun, you don’t want to miss the Kart Ranch. It is a fun place for the kids to play. With a ball pit, a mini-golf course, and a race track, it is fun for the whole family.

Rent Trends

As of February 2025, the average apartment rent in Lafayette, LA is $710 for a studio, $987 for one bedroom, $1,123 for two bedrooms, and $1,556 for three bedrooms. Apartment rent in Lafayette has increased by 2.3% in the past year.

Property Type
Average Rent
Average Sq Ft
Apartment
$987/month
706 Sq Ft
House
$1,684/month
1,484 Sq Ft
Condo
$1,209/month
1,000 Sq Ft
Townhome
$1,426/month
1,177 Sq Ft
See Rental Market Trends in Lafayette, LA

Transportation

51

Somewhat Walkable

out of 100 WalkScore® Rating

You might be able to get out and walk when living in this area. Some errands can be accomplished on foot, but for others you’ll need a car.

49

Bikeable

out of 100 BikeScore® Rating

While there’s some bike infrastructure in this area, you’ll still need a car for many errands.

Schools

Myrtle Place Elementary School

Public

Grades PK-5

372 Students

10
out of 10

Milton Elementary School

Public

Grades PK-8

1,332 Students

9
out of 10

Woodvale Elementary School

Public

Grades PK-5

890 Students

9
out of 10

Broadmoor Elementary School

Public

Grades PK-5

801 Students

7
out of 10

Prairie Elementary School

Public

Grades PK-5

606 Students

7
out of 10

David Thibodaux STEM Magnet Academy

Public

Grades 6-12

1,388 Students

9
out of 10

Milton Elementary School

Public

Grades PK-8

1,332 Students

9
out of 10

L.J. Alleman Middle School

Public

Grades 6-8

952 Students

8
out of 10

Edgar Martin Middle School

Public

Grades 6-8

490 Students

7
out of 10

Lafayette Middle School

Public

Grades 6-8

369 Students

6
out of 10

Early College Academy

Public

Grades 9-12

245 Students

10
out of 10

David Thibodaux STEM Magnet Academy

Public

Grades 6-12

1,388 Students

9
out of 10

Lafayette High School

Public

Grades 9-12

1,852 Students

7
out of 10

O. Comeaux High School

Public

Grades 9-12

1,098 Students

6
out of 10

Acadiana High School

Public

Grades 9-12

1,813 Students

5
out of 10

Top Apartments in Lafayette

Houses for Rent in Lafayette

Property Management Companies in Lafayette, LA

Living in Lafayette

Restaurants

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People in Louisiana have a special place in their hearts for food, and Lafayette residents and restaurant owners are no exception. You will find restaurants of all different cultures in Lafayette including Tex-Mex, Asian, Italian, deli-style and of course, Cajun. Some restaurants stand out above the rest. Prejeans is one of the most well-known Lafayette restaurants. As a result, it can feel slightly touristy to locals, but it is still a favorite. For southern seafood at its finest, try Charley G’s. The restaurant also has live piano music. If Spanish food is your thing, you have to try LaFonda Restaurant. With authentic Mexican food and a fun atmosphere, it will quickly become your favorite Mexican restaurant.

Because Lafayette is a college town, the nightlife is alive and well. The most popular area for the college age crowd is called The Strip. This area is on McKinley Street and very near the University. It is a string of bars that include places like The Keg and McKinley Street Pub. For an older, more mature crowd, there is the Blue Moon Saloon

Shopping

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The Mall of Acadiana is Lafayette’s number one shopping center. However, the city also has several other small shopping centers for those who live nearby or who simply don’t want to spend an entire day shopping. The River Ranch is a place you can park your car and make a day of it. There are restaurants, shops, salons, and more.

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