Small-town feel with big-city amenities in "Hammond, America"
In the mid-19th century, the city of Hammond first developed as a railroad town, connecting it to New Orleans. Today, the train still stops for passengers in Hammond, with its tracks cutting through the middle of downtown. But the city that residents affectionately call “Hammond, America” — due to its small-town, all-American charm — offers much more today than just the rails, including a thriving downtown scene and one of the five largest universities in the state. “It’s kind of a little big city,” says Tasha Lamkin-Dameron, the broker and co-owner of Simply Real Estate LLC, who has lived in Hammond for 33 years. “It’s got a small-town feel but with big-city amenities.”
Hammond is a mix of residential and retail locations.
Amtrak service stops in Hammond on its route between Chicago and New Orleans.
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Downtown shopping and dining in Hammond
Like many small-town downtowns, downtown Hammond fell on hard times through the late 20th century. But today, the downtown district in Hammond is vibrant and alive, with restaurants and storefronts along the railroad tracks running through the city's center. Much of this is due to the work of the Downtown Development District, which utilizes tax money to keep the area in great shape. “Downtown is such a desirable area because it’s very walkable. You can walk everywhere,” Lamkin-Dameron says. Suburban shopping centers near the interstates, including the Hammond Square outdoor mall, are on the outskirts of town.
Ollie's Hair Studio in Hammond is a great location for professional hair care.
Hammond Square has many different retail and restaurant options to choose from.
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Downtown Hammond's community events
Many of Hammond’s cultural events center on downtown, from monthly live music to holiday celebrations. Mardi Gras is celebrated in February with a masquerade ball, while July 4th brings a fireworks show in Zemurray Park. Each Saturday, downtown hosts a farmers market with nearly 50 local vendors selling fresh produce, pastries and artisan goods. Southeastern Louisiana University has an NCAA Division I sports program, and residents support the Lions.
Downtown Hammond is a great place to relax on a sunny day.
Railroad Park in Hammond hosts many activities like the weekly farmer’s market.
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Housing in Tangipahoa Parish's largest city
Hammond is the largest city in Tangipahoa Parish, with a population of over 20,000. The median home price in the city is $229,300, lower than the national median of $406,100. Bungalows and national-style homes from the mid-20th century comprise most of the housing stock near downtown. Ranch-style homes and new construction influenced by French Acadian style often pop up on the city's outskirts.
New home construction is an option when looking to move to Hammond.
National style homes can be found throughout Hammond.
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Education at Tangipahoa Parish Public Schools
Tangipahoa Parish Public Schools serve Hammond, with the system receiving a B-minus grade from Niche. Students can attend schools like the Southeastern Louisiana University Laboratory School, a joint venture between SLU and the Tangipahoa Parish school system. The kindergarten-through-eighth grade school receives an A-minus from Niche and helps train teachers. Otherwise, students have private options, including the A-minus-rated St. Thomas Aquinas High School. Southern Louisiana University is located in Hammond, with over 14,000 students.
Zemurray Park's many amenities
The city’s recreation opportunities are centered around Zemurray Park, which is near downtown. One of Hammond’s largest parks, it includes a playground, multiple baseball fields and the city pool. The Michael J. Kenney Recreation Center is located next to the park and offers an indoor court for basketball and volleyball. Cate Square Park is directly downtown and has a playground. Meanwhile, the city’s sports programs often play at North Oak Park near Southeastern Louisiana University’s campus, with four softball fields and a beach volleyball complex.
Go fishing in the pond at Zemurray Park.
Relax and read a book in Cate Square Park.
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Proximity to both New Orleans and Baton Rouge
While Hammond is car-centric, the parish’s Tangi Transit organization operates a bus route through the city. However, residents mainly drive to their destinations, including work. Major employers in the city include the Tangipahoa Parish Public Schools System and Southeastern Louisiana University, as well as the North Oaks Medical Center at the southern end of the city. Interstates 12 and 55 each run through the city, with I-12 heading the roughly 45 miles to Baton Rouge. I-55 meets up with I-10, leading to New Orleans, about 55 miles away. “You can be in New Orleans in 45 minutes. You can be in Baton Rouge in 35 minutes,” Lamkin-Dameron says. “Hammond is kind of a crossroads.” Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport offers commercial flights about 45 miles away. Residents can also take Amtrak service, which stops in Hammond on its route between Chicago and New Orleans.
Hammond is home to Southeastern Louisiana University.
North Oaks Medical Center is the main hospital in and around Hammond.
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Crime numbers trending down in Hammond
The city of Hammond has reported crime numbers to the state and FBI through the end of 2022. As of the final report, both property and violent crime rates were higher than state and national averages. However, both rates were trending downward over the five years before 2022.
Hammond has hot, humid summers and mild winters. The city’s location near the Gulf Coast means it can occasionally be affected by tropical storms or hurricanes. In 2021, Hurricane Ida brought significant rainfall and high winds to Hammond.
Written By
Brendan Doyle
Photography Contributed By
Andrew Williams
Video By
Kyle Keyes
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Hammond, LA sell after 81 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Hammond, LA over the last 12 months is $247,000, up 7% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Discover this stunningly remodeled brick home, renovated from top to bottom! Featuring a brand new roof, all-new flooring, updated windows, and state-of-the-art appliances. The kitchen boasts elegant granite countertops and high-end finishes throughout. Enjoy the privacy of a brand new wooden fenced backyard, perfect for entertaining or relaxing. This spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers an
If you're looking for a property with real development potential, 16173 E Minnesota Park offers the kind of location that makes projects successful. 3.5 Acres, 231 feet of frontage by 660ft, at $3.28 per square foot! Potential uses - Apartments, Storage building, shopping in front, residential in the back.. This 3.5-acre tract sits in one of Hammond's busiest and most convenient areas, surrounded
Adorable Acadian-style home with a welcoming large front porch, situated on an oversized lot of over half an acre. The partially fenced yard is ideal for pets and outdoor enjoyment and includes three storage structures, including a new 10' x 12' shed added in 2025. This well-maintained home offers a fully floored and insulated attic with lighting, providing excellent storage. The kitchen features
Neat 2bedroom /1.5 bathroom townhouse in Hammond near S.L.U. This townhome would make a great starter Home, Rental for College Student so it's a good investment property. FEATURES: Central A/H, Washer/Dryer Hookups and Small Patio Area. HOA covers all lawncare, exterior maintenance, flood insurance, exterior insurance and garbage.Located minutes from Southeastern LA University, and I-55.
This 3 Br 2 Bath custom home is a must see. Home is located in a family friendly established neighborhood on Green Acres Drive. The home features crown molding throughout the house. The master bedroom his & hers walk in closets have custom built cabinets, hers has a vanity with mirror. A bonus room is attached to the master bedroom suite. Bedrooms 2 & 3 also have custom built cabinets also. The
Build your dream home on this mostly cleared, 5-acre parcel just 5 mins to downtown Hammond and 8 mins to downtown Ponchatoula! Tucked away on a public dead-end road, this parcel enjoys a private, peaceful feel with virtually no through traffic—yet is just 5–8 minutes from downtown amenities, shopping, restaurants, and nightlife. Located just outside of Hammond city limits. Flood Zone X - no
This home was beautifully renovated in 2020, a new Kitchen with Granite countertops, a new ROOF and new HVAC, so you can truly move in without a to-do list. No carpet anywhere — just clean, low-maintenance flooring that’s great for kids, pets, or allergies. There are 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms each with its own soaking tub! Plus There is a flex space right off the living room. It works perfectly
Vacant Lot Zoned Commercial/Residential. Minutes from Downtown Hammond. Great site for your next venture in one of Hammond's established neighborhoods. This 75 X 100 Lot giving you the freedom to build a custom home, office space, retail storefront, or mixed-use project. Located next to a longstanding community business, this property offers excellent exposure and easy access to a steady flow of
Tucked away just outside the city limits of Hammond, this 3-acre, partially cleared property offers the kind of privacy that's hard to find -- while still being minutes from everything you need. Hidden behind another property, it feels quiet and secluded, making it a great spot to build if you want space to breathe and enjoy a slower pace of life. Located in an X flood zone, this property offers
Check out this property on the corner of Anderson and Harden St.!! Right close to downtown Hammond with some beautiful trees. Build you a forever home or start a business with this amazing opportunity. Land was given approval to become two lots as well!! Brand new grease trap installed for startup restaurants too. Schedule your showing today!!
Nestled just a short distance from the beautiful downtown Hammond, this picturesque 6-acre tract of land offers a tranquil retreat away from the hustle and bustle of urban life. This property is cleared and ready to build your dream home.
Welcome to a comfortable and convenient lifestyle at our spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom trailer home. Situated just off the Albany-Springfield exit, this property offers the perfect blend of affordability and accessibility. Step inside to discover a cozy and inviting living space with an open concept design. The living room is a great place to unwind and entertain, and the kitchen boasts
Welcome to 44081 Nicholas Circle! This 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home offers a comfortable layout with spacious living areas, great natural light, and a kitchen that’s perfect for everyday living. The home sits in a quiet neighborhood and features a nice yard to enjoy Louisiana evenings. Conveniently located just minutes from shopping, dining, and Southeastern Louisiana University, this rental offers
The Heights is the newest premier apartment homes in Hammond! Our residents will enjoy amenities Hammond has never seen before along with a team and community designed with you in mind. Find out why our nationally-awarded community was voted best apartments in Hammond three times! Call us today! We are an Equal Opportunity Housing Provider.
Be the first to live in this brand-new 2-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom duplex located in the heart of downtown Hammond. This modern unit features an open-concept layout, high-quality finishes, and spacious bedrooms, each with its own private bathroom, plus a convenient half bath for guests. The kitchen comes fully equipped with all brand-new appliances, and select utilities are included for added
Come enjoy Hammond living at St. Tropez. This property is situated at 901 Pecan St in Hammond. The leasing team is excited to help you find the best floor plan for your lifestyle. It's time to love where you live. Stop by for a visit today. St. Tropez is a 1SPM Property dedicated to a Student Housing Community.650 Credit Score Requirement.
Great 2 Bedroom/2 Bath in a great area! This unit features cathedral ceilings, beautiful stained concrete floors throughout, custom cabinets and built in desk to name a few. It is located close to the interstate for an easy commute. One pet may be considered with non refundable pet fee, no agressive breeds. Lawn maintenance and garbage are included in the rent. Tenant pays electricity and water.
Tangi Lakes is Hammond's BEST KEPT secret!! We are located in close proximity to all of Hammond's largest shopping centers, and we are just minutes from SLU, I-12, and I-55! With 185 units, we offer spacious 1, 2, and 3 Bedroom Townhomes with several different floor plans to choose from. We truly take pride in delivering the nicest, cleanest apartments in Hammond ...and that is NOT a gimmick.
Cozy 2 Bedroom 1 bath cottage for rent minutes from Southeastern Louisiana University and downtown Hammond. Pets allowed with approval and non-refundable pet fee. All occupants over 18 MUST fill out rental application. Use Link to apply:
Located next to Southeastern Louisiana University, but hidden from the city’s stir, Waypoint at Hammond offers an unparalleled modern living experience for students. Our spacious two, three, and four-private bedroom apartments come fully furnished, creating the perfect environment for living, learning, and thriving during your college years. Our community has recently undergone
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Experience luxury at every turn at one of the newest apartment communities in Hammond. Settle into a spacious one, two, or three-bedroom apartment and enjoy top-of-the-line features and finishes, then step outside your door and live every day to the fullest with a dizzying array of community amenities. Take a look and you’ll know – you belong here.
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