Spread across the southwest quadrant of Baton Rouge, Highlands/Perkins is best known as the home of Louisiana State University (LSU), but school’s 35,000 students comprise just one piece of the neighborhood’s complex tapestry. Housing here includes suburban single-family homes, public housing projects, high-rise student apartments and some of Baton Rouge’s largest mansions. Thanks to LSU’s agricultural teaching farms and Rural Life Museum, there are even traces of farm life here. Highlands/Perkins’ dual nature is embodied by its boundaries: the busy, frequently congested Interstate 10 to the north and the peaceful, winding Mississippi River to the south and west.
There are many options for housing in Highlands/Perkins.
Over 35,000 students attend Louisiana State University, or LSU, in Highlands/Perkins.
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From rehabs to lakeside mansions
Highland Road and Lakeshore Drive are lined with some of Baton Rouge’s most coveted real estate, spacious homes that can range between 4,000 and 8,000 square feet. “Highland Road is one of the more premiere areas of Baton Rouge,” says Realtor Michael Borne of Keller Williams Realty Red Stick Partners. “There are lots of oak trees lining the road as you drive down. It’s on a straight path to LSU and the lakes, where the biggest houses in the city are.” Between these two tony streets, suburban subdivisions like Southdowns and Zee Zee Gardens feature roomy yards with trees for shade in the sweltering Louisiana summers. Elsewhere in Highlands/Perkins, particularly closer to campus, there’s a mix of renovated homes and houses in need of rehab, which is why recent sales prices range from $55,000 to $1.5 million. Acadian, French Provincial, ranches, cottages, townhouses and contemporary styles from the 1980s to the present are all among the home designs commonly found in Highlands/Perkins.
Homes in Highlands/Perkins have manicured and well-kept lawns and gardens.
Cottages are popular when looking to move to Highlands/Perkins.
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Home to Baton Rouge’s top parks
At 195 acres, University Lake is the largest lake in Baton Rouge, and the best spot to get to it is through Milton Wampold Memorial Park, along its southern edge. Paddleboarders, kayakers and anglers all take advantage of the water here. Walkers, runners, joggers and bikers also benefit from the full 4.1-mile loop around the lake. Near the neighborhood’s eastern boundary, 52-acre Perkins Road Park includes walking and biking trails, a skate park, BMX track and a cycling velodrome; the park’s Olympia Stadium has played host to high school football games since 1970.
Milford Wampold Memorial Park has a large lake to cast your fishing line into.
Perkins Road Community Park has a large skate park.
Enjoy a sunset along University Lake in Highlands/Perkins.
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University Lab a top choice in Baton Rouge
Located in the heart of LSU’s campus, University Lab Schools is a K-12 National Blue Ribbon school with an A -rating from Niche. Kids on the west side of University and City Park Lakes might attend the B-minus-rated Buchanan Elementary, continue at the B-rated McKinley Middle and graduate from the C-rated McKinley High. On the eastern side of the neighborhood, kids might go to the C-plus rated Highland Elementary, the B-minus-rated Glasgow Middle and the B-plus-rated Liberty Magnet High.
University Lab School is a K-12 school located on the campus of Louisiana State University.
Highland Elementary School opened its doors in 1902.
Glasgow Middle School has a B- rating on Niche.
Liberty Magnet High School has a B+ rating on Niche.
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“Geaux Tigers” is a way of life
With a seating capacity of more than 102,000, LSU’s Tiger Stadium is the seventh-largest stadium in the world. However, thanks to the legendary tailgating prowess of the school’s football fans, it can be argued that more action takes place outside the stadium. When football isn’t in season, fans still pack the Pete Maravich Assembly Center for basketball and gymnastics, and the Alex Box Stadium for college baseball. Held the Friday before Mardi Gras, the Krewe of Southdowns parade is one of Baton Rouge’s biggest events.
LSU athletics reins supreme in South Louisiana, Highlands/Perkins.
Alex Box Stadium is home of the National Champion LSU Tigers baseball team in Highlands/Perkins.
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Stop-and-go traffic a familiar sight
LSU has a campus bus system for students. But public transportation in Baton Rouge can otherwise be lacking – no doubt a factor in the traffic congestion that’s plagued the city since its post-Katrina population influx. Getting out of town can be easy, though, thanks to the neighborhood’s proximity to Interstate 10. Baton Rouge Airport is about 13 miles north of Highlands/Perkins along I-110.
The Highlands/Perkins area is bordered to the north by I-10.
The Mississippi River Bridge is just minutes from Highlands/Perkins.
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Eat, drink and get coffee
Nightlife here isn’t just aimed at college students. The Chimes, a bar and restaurant located at LSU’s Northgate, is a local icon for its eclectic menu, which ranges from gator chili to boudin egg rolls. “Perkins Road also has a lot of shopping, restaurants, and places for nightlife,” Borne says. “The area’s unique in that you can walk to eat and walk to the bar.” Zippy’s is a Perkins Road staple known for its Mexican dishes, frozen daiquiris, and a roadside sign that usually has a witty message taunting an upcoming LSU opponent. The Bulldog has Baton Rouge’s most extensive selection of tap beers, as well as a patio where canine friends are welcome to chill with their owners, while Parrain’s, Phil’s Oyster Bar and Mike Anderson’s serve fresh-caught Louisiana seafood like catfish, crawfish and oysters. Along Highland Road, Sammy’s and Superior Grill are popular hotspots. Led by Highland Coffees near campus and Magpie Cafe on Perkins Road, the coffee scene in Highlands/Perkins can hold its weight with that of larger cities. Neighborhood grocery options include a Trader Joe’s.
Highlands/Perkins is fun and ready for the nightlife near the LSU campus.
Highland Coffees provides a casual yet refined coffee shop experience in Highlands/Perkins.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Priya Jacob,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Parks in this Area
Alaska Street Park
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Playground
Milford Wampold Memorial Park
Boating
Fishing
Lake
Perkins Road Community Park
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Bike Trails
Nairn Drive Park
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Playground
Leeward Drive Park
Playground
College Town Park
Playground
Roosevelt Street Park
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Playground
Transit
Airport
Baton Rouge Metro Ryan Field
22 min drive
Bus
Perkins Rd & Stuart - E
Bus
Lee & Mimosa - S
Bus
Gsri & Starboard - W
Bus
Highland & Staring Hill - W
Bus
Staring & Town South Shopping Center - S
Bus
Perkins Rd & College & Lee Dr - E
Bus
Thomas Delpit & Swart St - N
Reviews
Niche Reviews
3.684 Reviews
4.0Niche User
5/29/2015Niche Review
Everything you need is close to campus, from car maintenance shops to dry cleaners. You don't have to travel far for a specific need.
4.0Niche User
1/21/2016Niche Review
On River Rd, it is rather secluded from the rest of Baton Rouge, yet super convenient to get to college, which is perfect when you go to campus constantly. But because of it's seclusion, their is little economic growth happening. Several student housing options shot up about ten years ago, but everything else is farm, dairy, or industrial land.
4.0Nearby Resident
4/12/2023Niche Review
Highland/ Perkins is a great area. I love the conveniences that are around. There's a verity of restaurants to choose from in the area.
4.0Niche User
1/21/2016Niche Review
Crime is a very minor issue, since most potential criminals stick to more densely populated and less kept areas 5 min away. So the residents in my area are bothered little.
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Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Highlands/Perkins
US
Homicide
4
4
Sexual Assault
6
4
Assault with Weapon
4
4
Robbery
5
4
Burglary
5
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
4
4
Larceny
6
4
Crime Score
5
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Highlands/Perkins Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Highlands/Perkins, Baton Rouge sell after 76 days on the market compared to the national average of 49 days. The median sale price for homes in Highlands/Perkins, Baton Rouge over the last 12 months is $292,000, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
NEW PRICE/OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY, June 14th 11-1pm. Rare opportunity to own a custom-designed end unit townhome in the prestigious Perkins Lane community, a private, gated enclave of 21 residences nestled beneath majestic heritage oaks in the heart of Southdowns. This meticulously crafted 2-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom low maintenance home with an office and two living areas offers unparalleled elegance
Welcome to this delightful 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home that blends timeless cottage charm with modern-day convenience. Situated on a spacious corner lot measuring 0.43 acres, this well-maintained property offers ample room to live, work, and entertain in style. Step inside to discover warm, inviting spaces filled with character, including a versatile bonus room perfect for a home office, playroom,
Welcome to 1208 Foxtail Dr, a beautifully designed home in the desirable Pelican Lakes subdivision of Baton Rouge! This charming one-story residence offers 1,688 sq. ft. of comfortable living space, featuring three spacious bedrooms and two stylish bathrooms. Step inside to find modern finishes and an open floor plan, perfect for both entertaining and everyday living. The heart of the home
Peace, Luxury, and Relaxation in Laurel Estates. Welcome to your dream home in the highly sought-after Laurel Estates — where peace, luxury, and comfort seamlessly blend. This beautifully updated 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers generous living space and thoughtful design, all nestled across from a picturesque lake with a charming fountain view. Step inside to discover an inviting, open-concept
Calling all Investors & DIY Enthusiasts! A renovators delight on large 77x180 lot with beautiful oak tree in desirable Southdowns. Priced to sell, this property offers 1,961 sq ft of living space plus a 420 sq ft upstairs area and a 404 sq ft apartment NOT included in the living square footage! Features include original wood floors, multiple large living areas, a generous kitchen and
Beautiful 4-Bedroom Home with Flex Space on Corner Lot with Private Neighborhood Amenities This 4-bedroom, 3-bath home with flex space is perfectly situated on a desirable corner lot and features a charming front porch—ideal for relaxing or visiting with neighbors. Inside, enjoy fresh neutral paint, soaring 9’, 10’, and 11’ ceilings, and a spacious, light-filled layout. The kitchen is spacious,
This 3 bed / 2 bath home is cute, clean, and close to LSU — perfect if you want to be near the action but still have your own space. Hard floors throughout (aka super easy to keep clean), all appliances included, and a fully fenced yard for your chill time or small get-togethers. Not pet friendly & utilities aren’t included — but the vibe? Immaculate. Snag it before it’s gone!
Welcome to 1244 Shadow Bluff Drive, a cozy 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home nestled in the desirable Hunters Trace Subdivision of Baton Rouge. Ideal for LSU students or anyone seeking a peaceful retreat near campus, this home offers both comfort and convenience. Enjoy relaxing lake views and quiet surroundings after a long day. The refrigerator is included, making move-in simple and stress-free. Don’t
Welcome home to this beautiful 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom gem perfectly situated near LSU—ideal for students, faculty, or professionals seeking comfort and convenience. Available July 1st, this well-maintained home includes all appliances, making your move-in process seamless and stress-free. Nestled in a quiet, desirable neighborhood, you’ll enjoy easy access to campus, shopping, dining, and more.
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Priya Jacob,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Renters
Demographics
Total Population
63,393
Median Age
28
Population Density
4 ppl/acre
Population under 18
24%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
10.3%
Below the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$41,969
Significantly below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$75,607
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
93.4%
College Graduates
58.2%
Above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
29%
Above the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
67.9%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
62''
Average Winter Low Temperature
42°F
Average Summer High Temperature
92°F
Annual Snowfall
0''
Area Factors
Bikeable
Bike Score®
58/ 100
Car-Dependent
Walk Score®
42/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
