$311,455Average Value$203Average Price per Sq Ft29Homes For Sale
Baton Rouge suburb whose schools are major draw
Roughly 15 miles away from Baton Rouge, the suburban city of Central is known for its highly rated school district. In fact, it's a big reason why it became a city a quarter-century ago. In 2005, the community voted to break away from the East Baton Rouge Parish School System and incorporate, giving it the power to run its own schools. Today, Central contracts out most of its services — though it recently approved the construction of a larger city hall.
The city is mainly residential, so many of its 30,000 residents commute to the state capital or the petrochemical refineries along the Mississippi River. "A lot of people are going to be heading towards Baton Rouge for work or the other side of the river," says Chase Pino, a Realtor for Brittney Pino & Associates, who's originally from the area. "We have a lot of industrial plants and facilities like that."
Large estate homes can be had in Central, and often come with plenty of land.
Many Central residents work in oil with companies like the Placid Refining and Exxon Mobile.
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Highly rated Central Community School System, plus private options
Central is served by the Central Community School System, which receives an A-minus grade from Niche. Niche also ranks it as the fifth-best school district in Louisiana. Two Kindergarten- to second-grade elementary schools, a third- to fifth-grade intermediate school, a middle school and a high school make up the district. The city's private schools are also popular. "You've got a good public school system, but you also have Central Private School and St. Alphonsus Catholic School within the city limits," says Pino. Central Private is K-12, while St. Alphonsus is K-8.
In Baton Rouge, Louisiana State University is the state's largest college, with an enrollment of nearly 40,000. The capital is also home to Southern University and A&M College, an HBCU with roughly 8,000 students.
St. Alphonsus Catholic School teaches academics in a faith-based environment.
Central High School has a student-teacher ratio of 18 to 1.
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Homes in newer subdivisions, plus new-builds
The median home price in Central is $280,000, comparable to the median in Baton Rouge but higher than nearby suburbs. Most of Central is made up of single-family homes, with newer homes located in subdivisions. Those outside subdivisions tend to be older and on larger plots of land. Homes dating from the 1970s and '80s are typically brick ranch-style homes. New construction homes in planned developments are generally larger and pricier, in the $300,000 to $550,000 range.
Greenwell has entire subdivisions with single story ranch style homes.
A two-story French style home is one of the many new home styles being built in Central.
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Youth athletics at Central Sports Park
The Recreation and Park Commission for the Parish of East Baton Rouge maintains several parks throughout Central, including Central Sports Park. The complex includes seven baseball or softball fields, four multiuse fields and a fishing lake. The park hosts local youth sports and tournaments. The Blackwater Conservation Area offers trails and fishing in a nearly 60-acre park. Smaller pocket parks include the Jackson Community Park, which has a playground and a splash pad. Central has about a dozen churches of different faiths.
Various baseball games can be played at once on the many fields at Central Sports Park.
Blackwater Conservation Area is the perfect location for a dog walk.
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Community events include Cooking in Central
While Central was incorporated relatively recently, the city government and chamber of commerce have worked to foster a feeling of community. "Central's gotten more into community events with the newer mayor," Pino says. "He's had a lot to do with the recent growth." Celebrations include an annual Mardi Gras dance by the chamber and the city's Mardi Gras krewe, Krewe de Centrale. The Cooking in Central festival was founded in 2006, right after the creation of the city. The event has been held every spring since, with food vendors, music and carnival rides.
Central Square for shopping and dining
Shopping centers with supermarkets and small businesses are located mainly along Hooper Road and Sullivan Road, including the Central City Shopping Center at the intersection of the two thoroughfares. The Central Square mixed-use development has mostly chains and some local restaurants around Sullivan Road; a Walmart Supercenter is also here.
Enjoy a delicious Mexican meal at Zilantro's in Central.
Central has many box and grocery stores like a Walmart Market and Walmart Superstore.
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About 15 miles to downtown Baton Rouge
Downtown Baton Rouge is about 15 miles from Central via Interstate 110, about 7 miles away. The closest hospitals are in Baton Rouge, including Ochsner Medical Center. Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport is an 8-mile drive and offers flights to hubs like Houston, Dallas and Atlanta. New Orleans is 90 miles east, and Lafayette is 70 miles west via I-10.
Crime rates in East Baton Rouge Parish
The city of Central operates a small police force but also contracts with the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office. While crime statistics specific to Central are unavailable, FBI data shows lower violent crime rates in East Baton Rouge Parish than national and state figures. Property crime rates in the parish were comparable to the national and state rates.
Central experiences hot, humid summers and cool winters. The city can be affected by hurricanes or tropical storms, though its risk of flooding is lower than other areas closer to the river or the Gulf.
Written By
Lia Jones
Photography Contributed By
Clayton Hurst
Video By
David Strayer
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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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
On average, homes in Central, LA sell after 122 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Central, LA over the last 12 months is $416,825, up 8% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Estimated completion: 06/20/2026 Discover The Francis, a thoughtfully designed 4BR/3BA home by Alvarez Construction offering 2,337 sq ft of open, functional living space. The kitchen, dining, and living areas flow together and feature granite countertops, custom cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, and a central island. The private owner's suite includes dual vanities, soaking tub, separate
Estimated completion: 07/14/2026 Discover The St. Clare, a beautifully designed single-story home by Alvarez Construction featuring 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and 2,152 sq ft of open, inviting living space. The open-concept layout connects the great room, dining area, and gourmet kitchen with a large island, granite countertops, custom cabinetry, and stainless steel appliances. The private owner’s
Estimated completion: complete and ready to move in Magnolia Square, Central's premiere neighborhood. Featuring a day spa, restaurant and boutique shops within walking distance of your new home. Welcome home to The St. James floor plan, a stunning single-story home that blends style, comfort, and functionality. With 3 spacious bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, and 2,152 sq. ft. of living space, this
57.8046-acre rural retreat. Your own private entrance to country living at its best. Blackwater Bayou naturally divides the land, creating a scenic split between the front 20+- acres and the back 37+- acres of the larger tract. With approximately 40% of the 57-acre tract already cleared and the remainder offering natural cover, this property is ideal for a dream home, farm, recreational use, or
Every detail has been carefully thought out to be both beautiful and functional. The doors in the living room roll back to completely invite the outside in. Kitchen has 2 sinks, island and built in dining table. Outside kitchen is just as remarkable. And it has screens that roll up or down. Primary Bedroom is spacious and looks out to the back yard. Bath has soaking tub and exquisite shower.
Located in the highly desirable Central School District, this custom-built 2023 home offers 3,066 sq ft of living space (4,277 total sq ft) on nearly one acre (Flood Zone X no flood insurance required), featuring 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, a dedicated office, and 10–12 foot ceilings throughout. The open-concept layout is ideal for everyday living and entertaining, highlighted by a spacious living
Don't let the label fool you...this one lives large. Set well back from the road on a sprawling, tree-lined lot, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers the kind of space, privacy, and character that's genuinely hard to find at any price point. Gleaming hardwood floors run through the oversized living room, and the kitchen is a standout, full U-shaped layout, abundant solid oak cabinetry, built-in
A Rare Find in Central! Very Nice and Well Kept 3 Bedroom / 2 Bath Brick Home with Fenced Backyard. FEATURES: Spacious Kitchen with lots of Cabinets, Stainless Steel Appliances, and Granite Countertops / Fenced Backyard with Detached 24' x 10 shed and 6' x 20' Attached Storage Sheds / Attached Double Car Carport/ Concrete Driveway / and Metal Roof.
Seven separate lots on the north side of Gurney Road totaling over 18 acres with beautiful hardwoods that would make a grand homesite in the City of Central & in Central school district
Invest in the growing community of Central, 14871 Greenwell Springs Rd offers approximately 10.754 acres in East Baton Rouge Parish with more than 550 feet of frontage along LA-37 (Greenwell Springs Rd). The property includes an existing residence of approximately 2,148 living sq. ft. (3 bedrooms, 1 bath; approx. 2,752 sq. ft. total under roof, built circa 1950). Mineral rights are conveyed in
Experience the charm of New Orleans-style living in the heart of Central. Located in the Village at Magnolia Square, just steps from Stab's Steakhouse, this custom-built townhome offers a lifestyle defined by walkability, character, and connection. The iconic wrought iron balcony, classic shutters, and brick entry set the tone for a home that feels both timeless and inviting. Enjoy mornings on
Discover this four-bedroom, two-bath home in Baton Rouge's The Settlement at Shoe Creek. The house includes a double garage and comes with all appliances remaining for a move-in-ready experience. Pet-friendly accommodations are available with a refundable $500 pet deposit per pet. Positioned in a great location with access to nearby well-regarded schools, this residence offers practical features
Welcome to The Reserve at Shoe Creek, brand-new, luxury apartments in Central, Louisiana. Situated within the Settlement on Shoe Creek Traditional Neighborhood Development and close to the Town Square, our community exudes comfort, convenience, and plenty of amenities, including parks, walking/bike trails, and so much more. At The Reserve, you will enjoy spacious one, two, and three-bedroom floor
Available to lease June 5th! Lovely 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home with large fenced-in backyard, open living/dining layout, granite countertops in kitchen and bathrooms, and vinyl plank flooring! Contact Property Manager: Jillian Raxsdale, 225-308-9561, jillian@shpcompanies.com for details and scheduling. Application and pre-qualification required prior to touring: -- Income: Average monthly gross
Nicely remodeled home with a new roof and open floor plan. Features include a sunroom, spacious kitchen with ample counter space, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances in the kitchen. Cozy den with wood-burning heater. Two of four bedrooms offer large walk-in closets.
Available April 24th! Come tour this well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home with updated kitchen and bathrooms as well as a nice size backyard! Contact Property Manager: Jillian Raxsdale, 225-308-9561, jillian@shpcompanies.com for details and scheduling. Application and pre-qualification required prior to touring: -- Income: Average monthly gross income must be three times (3x) rent amount --
2 Bed 2 bath Water , trash, sewage included !!Located in heart of CENTRAL with TOP rated central schools north of BR14722 hooper rd $1050 per month one small pet with pet fee allowed .. Background , credit check One year lease , central ac , updated kitchen appliances including garbage disposal very QUIET and SAFe area with all top rated athletic programs No smoking
Nice cozy home with 3 beds and 2 baths, new flooring NO CARPET. The landlord has provided the refrigerator/washer/dryer and some furniture in the dining room, quiet neighborhood and convenient for life, call for showings.
***PRE LEASING NOW*** AVAILABLE 5/15/2026 This 3 bedroom 2 bath home in Central has plenty of space to enjoy both inside and out. Great layout for gatherings and yet separate enough for comfort. The backyard is perfect with a large covered patio and a fully fenced yard, great for gatherings and relaxing evenings or room to play. Conveniently located in the heart of Central, this home is ready to
Brand new duplex available for lease in the heart of Central! Each unit offers 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths with a spacious open floor plan perfect for comfortable everyday living. Beautiful stained concrete floors run throughout—durable, stylish, and easy to maintain. The kitchen features granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and plenty of cabinet space for all your needs. Conveniently
one bedroom, one bathroom apartment for rent in Greenwell Springs.No carpet, washer and dryer in unit. Electric, water, sewer, and lawn care included.Rent is $800
There’s no doubt that the name Brownsfield/Central is quite a mouthful. The area it describes is just as expansive, and, luckily, rests less than 20 miles from Louisiana’s capital city of Baton Rouge. This rural area is both city and not. Central, a large unincorporated area for well over a century, became the Bayou state’s newest city in 2005. Today’s Brownsfield/Central is considered a rural suburb of Baton Rouge. It’s situated between the Amite and Comite Rivers, and while the town is centered around Louisiana Highway 408, the area continues to stretch far beyond the city itself. This part of Brownsfield/Central is used for farming and industrial purposes as well as for residences. Many people choosing this part of the region prefer to have several acres for their homes, allowing for gardens and wooded backyards. <br><br>With the area being so large, there are both swathes of land ready to be developed as well as ready-to-build-on lots closer to Highway 408. Those lots can be as large or small as you like, although most homes are built to have large front or back yards. There’s no one housing style to be found here. Instead, you’ll find everything from established cottages and ranch-style residences to eclectic custom buildings to manufactured houses. Acadian cottages are popular as are estate houses. Prices range from $200,000 for a three-bedroom, two-bath ranch to nearly $3 million for a multi-story estate home with four bedrooms and bathrooms. <br><br>Students in the Brownsfield/Central area might attend schools in either the East Baton Rouge Parish school system or the dedicated Central school district. At Northeast Elementary, the facility has teamed up with the Southern University Agricultural Center and several master gardeners to create innovative nature clubs for the children. Central Middle has been named one of the overall top 50 public middle schools in Louisiana by the education ranking website Niche. Northeast High offers dual enrollment courses in conjunction with Louisiana State University and Baton Rouge Community College. <br><br>With so many wooded areas, it might seem like you’re living in a kind of park already. But in Brownsfield/Central, you’ll find numerous dedicated green spaces for the community’s use. Palomino Drive Park covers 150 acres and has a stocked lake for fishing in addition to tennis courts and public Wi-Fi. Central Sports Park consists of seven baseball and softball diamonds as well as four multi-purpose fields. Jackson Community Park has a walking track, spray pad, playground and recreation center to engage the entire family. <br><br>One thing you’ll notice while exploring the area is the mix of farmland and industry around Brownsfield/Central. Construction companies mix with growers of Christmas trees, and smaller operations include wedding venues and specialized taxidermy services. Cattle graze over spacious pastureland, and acre upon acre is planted with crops like cotton and soybeans. But there are plenty of produce growers as well. Luckett Farms is a family-run business owned by a third-generation agriculturalist. The company takes part in community-supported agriculture where individuals can prepay for a share of the crops. Each week during the summer or fall a box of produce is prepared for the subscriber with whatever fruits and vegetables are ripe. This creates a wonderful mixture of the freshest products possible. Selections can include offerings of blueberries, corn, peas, greens, potatoes, strawberries, tomatoes or any of dozens of other crops. <br><br>Living in Brownsfield/Central allows residents to choose the comforts of a small town or the rural countryside just a half-hour from the shopping and restaurants of Baton Rouge.
Property Mix - Square Feet
Rental Home Trends
Number of Homes for Rent
3
Median Rent
$1,800
Median Single Family Home Rent
$2,250
Median 4 Bedroom Single Family Home Rent
$2,250
Median Townhouse Rent
$1,800
Median 3 Bedroom Townhouse Rent
$1,800
Median Condo Rent
$1,763
Weather
Annual Precipitation
62''
Average Winter Low Temperature
42°F
Average Summer High Temperature
92°F
Annual Snowfall
0''
Area Factors
Somewhat friendly
Bike Score®®
30/ 100
Somewhat friendly
Walk Score®®
30/ 100
Source: Local Logic
Sources: Local Logic
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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.
