Why Live in Downtown Lake Charles
Downtown Lake Charles is a resilient neighborhood that has made significant strides in recovery since Hurricane Laura in 2020. The area is known for its vibrant arts scene and community-driven culture, hosting numerous events, restaurants, shops, and parks. Dining options include Pujo Street Cafe for New Orleans-style brunch, Villa Harlequin for upscale Italian dishes, and Tia Juanitas Fish Camp for regional delicacies like gumbo and boudin. Nightlife is highlighted by MacFarlane's Celtic Pub, which offers live music and drinks. Parks such as Bord Du Lac Park, Millennium Park, and North Beach provide recreational opportunities, while Bark Du Lac Dog Park caters to pet owners. Although grocery stores are limited within the immediate downtown area, residents can shop at a nearby Walmart Neighborhood Market less than a mile away. The neighborhood is largely car-dependent but benefits from ongoing pedestrian infrastructure improvements and ample parking. Recent construction has introduced new traditional-style condos and renovated single-family homes, offering diverse housing options. The area continues to rebuild, particularly around the Lake Charles Visitor Center and the I-10 Bridge, with new developments like a giant Children's Museum. The community remains active with events like the Gallery Promenade, Spring Art Walk, and ChuckFest, reflecting the neighborhood's strong sense of community and cultural vibrancy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Downtown Lake Charles a good place to live?
Downtown Lake Charles is a good place to live. Downtown Lake Charles is considered very car-dependent and somewhat bikeable. Downtown Lake Charles has 7 parks for recreational activities. It is sparse in population with 2.5 people per acre and a median age of 44. The average household income is $58,898 which is below the national average. College graduates make up 22.2% of residents. A majority of residents in Downtown Lake Charles are renters, with 62.7% of residents renting and 37.3% of residents owning their home. A
local real estate agent serving Downtown Lake Charles can help you decide if this neighborhood is the right one for you. Learn more on our
Downtown Lake Charles neighborhood guide.
How much do you need to make to afford a house in Downtown Lake Charles?
The median home price in Downtown Lake Charles is $235,000. If you put a 20% down payment of $47,000 and had a 30-year fixed mortgage with an interest rate of 6.26%, your estimated principal and interest payment would be $1,160 a month plus property taxes, HOA fees, home insurance, PMI, and utilities. Using the 28% rule, you would need to make at least $50K a year to afford the median home price in Downtown Lake Charles. The average household income in Downtown Lake Charles is $59K.
What are the best public schools in Downtown Lake Charles?
The best public schools that serve Downtown Lake Charles are:
What are the best private schools in Downtown Lake Charles?
The best private schools that serve Downtown Lake Charles are:
What are the most popular zip codes in Downtown Lake Charles, Lake Charles, LA?
What are the most popular neighborhoods near Downtown Lake Charles, Lake Charles, LA?
Home Trends in Downtown Lake Charles, LA
On average, homes in Downtown Lake Charles, Lake Charles sell after 295 days on the market compared to the national average of 52 days. The median sale price for homes in Downtown Lake Charles, Lake Charles over the last 12 months is $221,250, up 101% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Median Sale Price
$221,250
Median Single Family Sale Price
$221,250
Median Townhouse Sale Price
$224,200
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$155
Number of Homes for Sale
2
Last 12 months Home Sales
2
Median List Price
$235,000
Median Change From 1st List Price
6%
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
101%