Best Places To Buy Rental Property In Louisiana For 2025

Louisiana has always been known for its culture, cuisine, and character, but what most people overlook is its quiet strength as a real estate investment market. Beneath the surface of jazz festivals and bayou charm lies something savvy investors are starting to notice: the best places to buy rental property in Louisiana aren’t just affordable; they’re strategic.

This is a state where oil refineries, ports, hospitals, and universities power entire local economies. Where home prices are still within reach, and tenants consistently fill units. Whether you’re an experienced landlord or just exploring the idea of rental property investment in Louisiana, there’s real opportunity here. Especially for beginner real estate investors in Louisiana, looking for cash flow without the headaches of more saturated markets.

In this guide, we’ll explore why Louisiana’s housing market deserves more attention, reveal 15 cities with investor-friendly fundamentals, and answer the key questions buyers ask before they invest in Louisiana real estate. If you’re ready to go where others aren’t looking, this list might just change your playbook.

• Why Louisiana Is One of The Best Places To Buy Rental Property
• Top 15 Best Places To Buy Rental Property In Louisiana
• The Best Places To Buy Rental Property In Louisiana: FAQ

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Why Louisiana Is One of The Best Places To Buy Rental Property

Ask seasoned investors where they’re getting the best bang for their buck, and more than a few will tell you to look south, specifically at Louisiana. While it’s often overlooked in national rankings, the best places to buy rental property in Louisiana quietly combine strong rent demand, affordable housing, and local economies built to last. It’s not a speculative market; it’s a practical one.

What makes Louisiana different? First, it's home to some of the largest ports in North America, driving a steady flow of jobs in logistics, manufacturing, and trade. That means real tenants with real paychecks. Second, this is a state with a proven track record of rebuilding. Cities like Lake Charles and New Orleans have bounced back from natural disasters time and again, and investors have followed. Third, Louisiana’s rich culture, food scene, and music-driven tourism keep cities like Baton Rouge and Lafayette buzzing with long-term renters and short-term opportunities alike. And finally, compared to many other coastal states, Louisiana offers far more investor-friendly protections and lower holding costs.

Whether you’re new to the game or looking for your next out-of-state market, rental property investment in Louisiana offers a rare mix of affordability, demand, and resilience. In the next section, we’ll dig into what makes this state such a great place to buy your first rental property:  

• Port and Logistics-Driven Job Markets
• Rebuilding Cities with Increasing Investor Interest
• Tourism, Culture, and Year-Round Rental Demand
• Landlord-Friendly Laws and Lower Holding Costs

Port and Logistics-Driven Job Markets

Louisiana’s economy is powered by its access to the Gulf of Mexico, making it one of the most important logistics and shipping hubs in the U.S. The Port of New Orleans and Port of South Louisiana are among the busiest in the country, supporting thousands of jobs in freight, warehousing, and industrial transportation. This constant economic activity creates a solid rental base for real estate investors, especially in cities like Baton Rouge and Lake Charles.

New Orleans continues to see job stability in transportation, trade, and utilities—industries that tend to support long-term renters. For investors, this kind of economic diversity means less dependence on one industry and more reliability when it comes to rental demand. If you’re looking for high-traffic, economically active markets, investing in rental property in Louisiana’s port cities could be a strong long-term play.

Rebuilding Cities with Increasing Investor Interest

Louisiana is home to several cities that are still rebuilding from past hurricanes and economic downturns, and that’s exactly what makes them attractive to value-driven investors. Places like Lake Charles, Houma, and parts of New Orleans are seeing renewed development interest, especially in affordable housing and infrastructure. With rebuilding comes new investment, population shifts, and a growing need for rental properties.

Programs like the Restore Louisiana initiative and other local incentives have made it easier for developers and property owners to improve distressed neighborhoods. As these cities grow back stronger, investors who get in early can benefit from appreciation and stable cash flow. If you’re looking for real estate investing in Louisiana for beginners, these emerging markets may offer the best blend of low acquisition cost and upside potential.

Tourism, Culture, and Year-Round Rental Demand

Louisiana’s reputation as a cultural hotspot isn’t just a draw for tourists; it’s a benefit for rental property owners, too. Cities like New Orleans, Lafayette, and Baton Rouge host festivals, sporting events, and conventions year-round, driving both short-term and long-term rental demand. According to the Louisiana Office of Tourism, over 40 million visitors came to the state in 2023 alone.

This steady influx of people helps support a hybrid rental economy. Investors can choose to focus on long-term tenants or explore short-term rentals in high-demand areas. The best part? When tourism slows down, strong local demand—especially from workers in hospitality, healthcare, and education—keeps the rental pipeline steady. For those looking to buy rental property in Louisiana, these cultural and economic drivers offer serious upside.

Landlord-Friendly Laws and Lower Holding Costs

Compared to many coastal or tenant-centric states, Louisiana remains relatively landlord-friendly. The state has no rent control and allows for faster eviction proceedings than places like California or New York. According to the Nolo legal guide for Louisiana landlord-tenant law, lease enforcement is straightforward and balanced, which helps protect investor interests.

In addition, Louisiana’s average property tax rate is only 0.51%, well below the national average. That means landlords here can benefit from lower ongoing expenses, making it easier to cash flow even on lower-priced homes. For investors focused on minimizing holding costs and maximizing returns, the Louisiana rental property market offers clear financial advantages.

Read Also: Top Landlord-Friendly States 2025: Where to Invest Now

Top 15 Best Places To Buy Rental Property In Louisiana

When you think of real estate investing, Louisiana might not be the first place that comes to mind, but maybe it should be. With a mix of urban hubs, revitalizing small cities, and cultural centers with year-round activity, the best places to buy rental property in Louisiana are packed with opportunity. We curated this list by looking at a mix of affordability, rental demand, price-to-rent ratios, local economic drivers, and long-term appreciation potential. These aren’t hypothetical “maybe someday” markets; these are cities where real investors are generating returns right now.

Some markets on this list are driven by tourism and short-term rentals, others by universities, oil and gas, or shipping. But what they all have in common is a favorable setup for smart, well-informed investors. Whether you're a beginner investor looking for a foothold or you're ready to expand your portfolio across the Southeast, these 15 cities are worth your attention in 2025.

Click below to jump to each city:

1. New Orleans, LA
2. Baton Rouge, LA
3. Lafayette, LA
4. Shreveport, LA
5. Lake Charles, LA
6. Monroe, LA
7. Alexandria, LA
8. Houma, LA
9. Slidell, LA
10. Bossier City, LA
11. Kenner, LA
12. Central, LA
13. Zachary, LA
14. Hammond, LA
15. Ruston, LA

New Orleans, LA

New Orleans isn’t just a cultural powerhouse—it’s a rental investment magnet. With a median home value in New Orleans of around $244,848, properties remain surprisingly accessible for a major U.S. city. Pair that with the average monthly rent in New Orleans of $1,410, and you’re looking at solid rent-to-price dynamics for buy-and-hold investors. The tenant base is as diverse as the city itself—students, hospitality workers, healthcare staff, and remote workers all fuel consistent demand. Whether you invest near the universities or in up-and-coming neighborhoods like Mid-City or Bywater, New Orleans combines rental income potential with long-term appreciation upside.

Baton Rouge, LA

Louisiana’s capital city is one of the best places to build a reliable, cash-flowing rental portfolio. The median home value in Baton Rouge is approximately $227,574, well below national averages. Meanwhile, the average monthly rent in Baton Rouge clocks in at $1,238, giving landlords room to generate positive cash flow. With Louisiana State University anchoring year-round demand and a large workforce population tied to government, education, and petrochemical industries, Baton Rouge offers a balanced mix of affordability, tenant stability, and upside potential for real estate investors.

Lafayette, LA

Lafayette flies under the radar, but investors are taking notice of its rent-friendly fundamentals. The median home value in Lafayette is around $220,494, while the average monthly rent in Lafayette sits at $1,151. That favorable ratio makes it a practical market for landlords seeking solid monthly returns. Home to the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and a strong healthcare and oilfield services sector, Lafayette sees steady rental demand from students and working professionals. For investors seeking low vacancy rates and dependable cash flow in a mid-sized city, Lafayette is a strong contender.

Shreveport, LA

Shreveport delivers some of the best rent-to-price ratios in Louisiana. Investors can purchase properties at a median home value in Shreveport of just $134,387. Combine that with the average rent in Shreveport of $960 per month, and the cash flow potential becomes obvious. The economy is bolstered by healthcare, military (Barksdale Air Force Base), and logistics, making for a tenant base that’s both consistent and diverse. For out-of-state investors, Shreveport offers one of the lowest cost entries into the Louisiana rental property market, with room to scale.

Lake Charles, LA

Lake Charles offers a compelling mix of industrial stability and rental opportunity. The median home price in Lake Charles is about $200,842, and the average rent in Lake Charles is $1,062. This city is a key hub for petrochemical manufacturing and port activity, ensuring a steady influx of workers needing rental housing. While the area continues to rebuild from past hurricanes, that rebuilding effort itself is attracting investors looking for appreciation on top of solid monthly returns. For landlords seeking undervalued markets with long-term upside, Lake Charles is worth a close look.

Monroe, LA

Monroe is a textbook example of how small-city investing can deliver big returns. With a median home value in Monroe of about $146,296 and an average monthly rent in Monroe of $952, investors can find properties with strong cash flow potential. The tenant base is a mix of students from the University of Louisiana Monroe, healthcare workers, and blue-collar renters tied to regional manufacturing and logistics. For landlords who value affordability, low acquisition risk, and a dependable rental market, Monroe deserves serious consideration.

Alexandria, LA

Right in the center of Louisiana, Alexandria offers landlords both geographic and economic stability. The median home value in Alexandria is approximately $136,113, while the average rent in Alexandria is $1,026 per month. That rent-to-price combo creates solid returns without a steep learning curve. With a regional medical hub, Fort Johnson nearby, and access to central transportation routes, Alexandria attracts long-term tenants who value affordability and location. It's a quiet but consistent market where smart landlords are building cash-flow portfolios one deal at a time.

Houma, LA

Houma sits in the heart of Louisiana’s oil and gas region, and that means jobs and tenants. The median home price in Houma hovers around $183,696, and the average monthly rent in Houma is $1,049. What sets Houma apart is its strong blue-collar tenant base, fueled by energy, shipbuilding, and commercial fishing. For investors looking for consistent demand in a working-class market, Houma delivers. It's also less competitive than larger cities, giving out-of-state buyers a chance to enter a niche market with high yield and low competition.

Slidell, LA

Slidell is a commuter’s dream—and that’s great news for landlords. Located just 30 minutes from New Orleans, Slidell offers renters a more affordable alternative with strong lifestyle appeal. The median home value in Slidell is about $228,393, while the average rent in Slidell is $1,311 per month. For investors, this city offers suburban stability, solid tenants, and proximity to the economic engine of NOLA. Whether you're looking to buy rental property in Louisiana for appreciation or cash flow, Slidell gives you a balanced blend of both.

Bossier City, LA

Bossier City, adjacent to Shreveport, is a growing market with solid infrastructure and tenant demand. The median home value in Bossier City sits around $225,045, while the average rent in Bossier City is about $1,027. The presence of Barksdale Air Force Base ensures a steady flow of military families and defense contractors, while the city’s commercial expansion supports workforce housing needs. It’s a stable, low-volatility market—ideal for investors who want reliable tenants and predictable returns in the Louisiana rental property market.

Kenner, LA

Kenner blends big-city access with a more laid-back, suburban feel, making it ideal for renters who work in New Orleans but want a quieter home base. The median home value in Kenner is around $243,780, while the average monthly rent in Kenner is $1,108. This gives landlords a solid rent-to-price ratio in a market where properties still move quickly. With Louis Armstrong International Airport nearby and a stable local economy, Kenner attracts professionals, airport employees, and families. If you're looking to invest in Louisiana real estate near a major metro with dependable tenants, Kenner should be on your radar.

Central, LA

Central is one of the newer cities in the Baton Rouge metro area, and that youth comes with growth. The median home value in Central is about $250,215, and while rental data is more limited, three-bedroom homes regularly rent for $1,600+. As a family-oriented suburb with top-rated schools and low crime rates, Central attracts long-term tenants willing to pay for quality. Investors who prioritize tenant stability and minimal turnover will find the Central rental market appealing. For landlords seeking quiet cash flow just outside the bustle of Baton Rouge, Central checks all the right boxes.

Zachary, LA

Zachary is one of Louisiana’s best-kept investing secrets. Known for having one of the top public school systems in the state, it consistently draws families looking to settle down. The median home value in Zachary is $271,922, and three-bedroom rentals regularly command over $1,500 per month. With new development, low crime, and a reputation for stability, Zachary is tailor-made for landlords looking for reliable, long-term tenants. It’s not the flashiest market, but for rental property investment in Louisiana that delivers peace of mind and strong ROI, Zachary is a smart play.

Hammond, LA

Home to Southeastern Louisiana University, Hammond is a classic college town with year-round rental demand. The median home value in Hammond is around $217,522, and the average monthly rent in Hammond is $1,250. This makes it one of the best places to buy rental property in Louisiana for investors who want steady turnover and predictable income. Between students, faculty, and healthcare workers from nearby North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond offers a solid mix of tenants and low vacancy risk. For beginner real estate investors in Louisiana, Hammond provides an ideal balance of affordability and stability.

Ruston, LA

Ruston may fly under the radar, but for savvy investors, that’s the appeal. Home to Louisiana Tech University, the city has a built-in tenant pipeline of students and university staff. The median home value in Ruston is $221,104, while average rent in Ruston is about $1,434 per month. Its economy is supported by education, manufacturing, and regional healthcare, making it more than just a college town. For those seeking high rental demand and low entry costs, Ruston’s rental market offers a compelling long-term opportunity with limited competition.

Read Also: The Best Places to Invest in Real Estate in 2025

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The Best Places To Buy Rental Property In Louisiana: FAQ

If you're thinking about investing in Louisiana real estate, you're not alone. We get these questions from both in-state and out-of-state investors every week—and for good reason. The best places to buy rental property in Louisiana offer a mix of cash flow, stability, and long-term potential, especially for beginners looking to break into the market.

What is the best city in Louisiana to buy rental property?

It depends on your strategy, but cities like Baton Rouge, Lafayette, and Ruston are among the best places to buy rental property in Louisiana due to strong rent-to-price ratios and stable tenant demand.

Is Louisiana a good place for real estate investing?

Yes, buying rental property in Louisiana is ideal for investors seeking affordability, landlord-friendly laws, and year-round rental demand.

Where can I get the most cash flow from a rental in Louisiana?

Markets like Shreveport, Monroe, and Alexandria often provide excellent cash flow because of their low property prices and steady rental income.

What cities in Louisiana have strong rental demand?

New Orleans, Hammond, and Ruston show consistent rental demand in Louisiana thanks to tourism, universities, and healthcare hubs.

Are there landlord-friendly cities in Louisiana?

Yes, most Louisiana cities lean pro-landlord. Cities like Kenner, Central, and Bossier City have legal systems that protect landlords and support efficient evictions.

Can out-of-state investors buy property in Louisiana?

Absolutely. Louisiana welcomes out-of-state investors, and many find success buying rental property remotely with local property management support.

What are property taxes like for landlords in Louisiana?

Property taxes for landlords in Louisiana are among the lowest in the U.S., with an average effective rate of around 0.51%, helping maximize your rental profits.

Is real estate investing in Louisiana good for beginners?

Yes, real estate investing in Louisiana for beginners is ideal because of low home prices, manageable entry points, and stable rental markets.

Where can I invest in Louisiana real estate near a college?

Consider Ruston (Louisiana Tech), Hammond (Southeastern Louisiana), and Baton Rouge (LSU) for college-town investing with built-in demand.

How do I know where to buy investment property in Louisiana?

Start with areas that show population growth, strong rent-to-price ratios, and consistent tenant demand, like Lafayette, Lake Charles, and Zachary. These are some of the top options for where to buy investment property in Louisiana today.

Final Thoughts on the Best Places To Buy Rental Property In Louisiana

Louisiana might not be the first state that comes to mind for real estate investing, but that's exactly what makes it such a compelling opportunity. From the bustling neighborhoods of New Orleans to the growing suburbs of Zachary and Central, the best places to buy rental property in Louisiana offer a powerful combination of low purchase prices, strong rental demand, and pro-landlord laws that can help investors build real wealth.

Whether you're just getting started or looking to expand your portfolio into new, high-ROI markets, Louisiana deserves a serious look. With resilient local economies, diverse tenant bases, and a housing market that favors cash flow, this is one of the few places where beginner investors can still get in at a great value. The opportunities are here; it's just a matter of taking action and knowing where to look.

Ready to Take the Next Step in Real Estate Investing? Join our FREE live webinar and discover the proven strategies to build lasting wealth through real estate.

Whether you're just getting started or ready to scale, we'll show you how to take action today. Don't miss this opportunity to learn the insider tips and tools that have helped thousands of investors succeed! Seats are limited—Reserve Your Spot Now!

*Disclosure: Real Estate Skills is not a law firm, and the information contained here does not constitute legal advice. You should consult with an attorney before making any legal conclusions. The information presented here is educational in nature. All investments involve risks, and the past performance of an investment, industry, sector, and/or market does not guarantee future returns or results. Investors are responsible for any investment decision they make. Such decisions should be based on an evaluation of their financial situation, investment objectives, risk tolerance, and liquidity needs.