Let the numbers do the talking.
Lake Charles, LA vs New Orleans, LA
Lake Charles, LA vs New Orleans, LA: What the data shows
Lake Charles, LA is in Lake Charles, LA while New Orleans, LA is in New Orleans, LA — both in the same state. WYLT rates Lake Charles, LA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and New Orleans, LA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Lake Charles, LA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Lake Charles, LA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. New Orleans, LA has High violent crime and High property crime. On environmental risk, Lake Charles, LA has High flood risk and New Orleans, LA has Low flood risk.
New Orleans, LA is the more walkable neighborhood. Lake Charles, LA scores 7/100 (car-dependent) versus New Orleans, LA's 28/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Lake Charles, LA rates 6.9/10 and New Orleans, LA rates 6.9/10.
| Category | Lake Charles, LA | New Orleans, LA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | N/A | $586K |
| Median Rent | N/A | $1K |
| Median Income | N/A | $92K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 7/100 | 28/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 1/100 | 42/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 1/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | N/A | 30 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Property Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Flood Risk | High | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.9/10 | 6.9/10 |
| Best for | Families with children (good schools)Budget‑conscious renters or buyersWater sports enthusiasts (lake access) | Young professionalsFood loversStudents |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
Share this comparison