Along the bayous of Terrebonne Parish is Houma, named for the Native American tribe United Houma Nations. Today, about 33,400 residents from many cultures have shaped the city’s atmosphere and traditions, including Cajun, French, African American and Native American. “Our culture, our people – I just don’t feel like there’s anything like that everywhere I go,” says Kelli Guidry, resident and Realtor with Real Broker LLC. She is not the only one to say this; one of her clients expressed the kindness and support he saw following Hurricane Ida in 2021. “He was like, ‘Kelli, I have lived all over. Never have I been to a place where people came together like they did in this area.’ But it’s not just during tragedy that our people are like that. Our people are always like that.”
Houma is the parish seat of Terrebonne Parish. Major employers include the school district, Gulf Island Fabrication, Pride Offshore and Terrebonne General Medical Center.
Gators glide through the waters of the bayou's of North Houma.
Celebrate creativity and nature at the Bayou Art Festival in Downtown Houma.
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Housing prices impacted by insurance
Older homes, such as mid-twentieth century shotguns like those in North Houma and Houma Heights, comprise a large percentage of the city’s housing market. Most of the newer construction is west of the Intracoastal Waterway, in neighborhoods like Sugar Mill and Summerfield Place. The median price is $218,000, significantly lower than the National Association of Realtor’s national figures; however, some new or renovated properties are close to $400,000. While Guidry acknowledges that housing prices “may seem like it’s really affordable,” she expresses concerns about the impact of home insurance. “Our insurance is continuing to increase,” Guidry says. According to Value Penguin, Houma’s insurance rates are about 30% higher than the national average.
Acadian homes stand out in Manchester neighborhood.
Cape Cod and American Traditional style homes line certain Mulberry streets.
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Hurricane preparedness in Houma
For most of the year, Houma has a humid, sometimes muggy, climate; January is the driest month. The hottest months are between May to September, with temperatures between 65 and 90 degrees. “It’s essential to know that Houma’s location in Terrebonne Parish means a close connection to the water, so flood preparedness and understanding hurricane season are important,” Morvant says. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, Terrebonne Parish has a relatively high risk of hurricanes. The parish’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness is responsible for making evacuation plans and response teams, as well as updating residents as a storm develops. There is a levee system designed to minimize flooding.
A cottage with an elegant front porch and some tropical plants out front.
Houma Heights is a small neighborhood on the east side of the city.
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Private schools affiliated with religious institutions
Houma is part of Terrebonne Parish Public School District, which earns an A-minus from Niche and offers school choice. Residents can also elect to send their kids to private school; many are associated with religious institutions, including St. Francis de Sales School, a Catholic school for pre-kindergarten through seventh grade. Houma Christian School was voted Bayou’s Best Private School in 2024. Nicholls State University is about 15 miles away, in the neighboring city of Thibodaux.
Southdown Elementary School encourages Crescent students to be their best.
Oaklawn Junior High School gets a B from Niche and covers grades 6-8.
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Car-dependent city about 60 miles from New Orleans
Houma residents primarily rely on their cars to get around. Highways like Louisiana Route 182, also called New Orleans Boulevard, connect to U.S. Route 90 and leads about 60 miles to Downtown New Orleans. Terrebonne Parish works with Good Earth Transit to run several bus routes in the area. Although the Houma-Terrebonne Airport is in the area, it is used primarily for industrial flights. Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is nearly 45 miles away and offers over 50 nonstop destinations.
Revitalization efforts in Downtown Houma
Bayou Terrebonne runs through Downtown Houma, bordered by eateries and boutiques. Besides being the heart of Houma’s dining scene, there are museums, like the Bayou Terrebonne Waterlife Museum, art galleries and plays at La Petite Theatre. Hurricane Ida heavily impacted downtown. “Developments are underway to enhance our Downtown Houma buildings that were devastated by Hurricane Ida,” Morvant says. One such building was Finding Our Roots African American Museum, which had to close following the storm but has reopened as a mobile museum housed in RV. Revitalization efforts go beyond repairing the damaged buildings. The Hache Grant Association (HGA) is a nonprofit dedicated to revitalizing Terrebonne Parish; its current project, “Start at the Heart,” includes building floating docks and kayak launches that let out onto Bayou Terrebonne. Part of the HGA’s funding comes from the annual Bayou Terrebonne Boucherie. Major retailers like Target and chain restaurants are along Martin Luther King Boulevard and Highway 311.
Everyone is falling in love with Elysian Park neighborhood.
Shotgun shacks are readily available throughout Houma Heights.
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Mardi Gras and Southern Louisiana celebrations
Like much of Louisiana, Houma has no shortage of Mardi Gras festivities. Over 10 krewes ride through the city, with parades starting a week before Mardi Gras Day. Other events celebrate Southern Louisiana culture, including the Rougarou Fest, and unique events like the annual Maw Maw Walker, a pub crawl where participants dress up as grannies.
Check out the annual Rougarou Festival in Houma, with rides, vendors and more.
The live music goes for three days straight at the annual Rougarou Festival near Houma Heights.
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On the bayou and at Bayou Country Sports Park
As part of Louisiana’s Bayou Country, Houma is home to a rich ecosystem with marshes, swamps and wetlands. Kayakers can paddle through the bayous – watching for alligators - and many go fishing or crabbing. Bayou Country Sports Park is the largest park in the region, with a final plan that spans 140 acres. While it is still being developed, its current iteration includes a softball and baseball complex, a beach, and a regularly stocked fishing pond. There are several other neighborhood parks throughout the city. “In the Louisiana heat and on those really sunny days, Lafayette Park is such a great one because it has a whole lot of pine trees,” Guidry says. “You’re able to get outside and not be beat down by the sun.”
The spirit of the gulf can be felt throughout all of the Crescent neighborhood.
Enjoy the day in Downtown Houma near Elysian Park.
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Written By
Zia Sampson
Photography Contributed By
Jack Adams
Video By
Kevyn Harris
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Wendy Benedetto,
an experienced agent in this area.
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 Houma, LA sell after 113 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Houma, LA over the last 12 months is $220,000, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to your new home! This charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath property is located in the sought-after Mulberry Elementary School district. If you’ve been searching for a starter home that already feels warm and inviting, this is it. The open-concept layout makes it easy to maximize space with little effort, creating a comfortable flow for everyday living. Step out back to enjoy a patio that’s perfect
Welcome to 833 Elm St — the perfect starter home or investor flip in an established, convenient neighborhood! This charming property is full of potential and ready for your personal touches. Major improvements have already been taken care of, including new electrical, a newer AC unit, recent leveling, and newer appliances, giving you peace of mind from day one. New Updates throughout Located in a
Seller is Offering $6,500 in closing costs and pre paid items with an acceptable offer!! Welcome to this stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home that perfectly blends classic charm with modern upgrades. This 2,772 sq ft residence spans two stories and showcases the beauty of its original wood floors, preserved to maintain its timeless character. Renovated in 2022, the home offers a seamless fusion of
Major Price Improvement!!! (-$15,000) Great opportunity in Broadmoor Subdivision! This 3-bedroom, 1-bath home sits on a large corner lot and a half with mature oak trees and side access to the backyard—perfect for boat storage. Features include a single carport, screened-in patio, a spacious rear den, storm doors, solar screens, gas stove and three windows units to remain. The second lot has a
LIKE NEW!! Reduced price & owner is offering 10,000 toward buyers closing cost!! Beautiful 3 bedroom 2 bath home on a corner lot in the well desired neighborhood of "Olde Towne". Home has whole house GENERAC generator, hurricane shutters, tankless water heater and SO MUCH MORE! Schedule your tour today! Flood zone X (no flood insurance required) (all info contained within to be verified by buyer)
Cleared Commercial 2.9 acre Tract ready to build on, This corner lot is located in the Industrial center of Terrebonne Parish. Access to this lot is from Grand Caillou Rd. or Denley which is off of Industrial Blvd. and close to Ochsner Medical Center.
Introducing an Exquisite Waterfront Oasis! Behold, an extraordinary opportunity to own a truly exceptional piece of paradise. This exclusive luxury lot boasts a stunning waterfront location with a meticulously constructed bulkhead, ensuring both security and picturesque views. Seamlessly connecting you to the Intracoastal Canal, this prime property offers unparalleled convenience for water
"ACADIAN DELIGHT " A rare offering of timeless sophistication and serene waterfront living, this exceptional Acadian-inspired estate is gracefully set beneath the canopy of a magnificent, centuries-old oak--an iconic statement of prestige and Southern elegance. Beyond the entrance, an awe-inspiring great room unfolds, defined by dramatic soaring ceilings, expansive architectural volume, and a
Can anyone say fabulous house, flood zone X (no required flood), plus garage and Giant shop??? This home has been so well maintained there is not a pin out of place. Walk up to Hawaii styled landscape that make you feel like you are on vacation. Brand new stainless steel appliances in the kitchen are show stoppers. Updated window world windows with a lifetime warranty. New electric garage doors.
Over $80,000 UNDER last appraisal!! 30 acres of TREE-Mendous land with a horse barn and arena!! Do you own horses? This home is for you! Previously appraised at $780,000!! Room for all of the family and all of the animals! If home steading is your dream, it can come true right here minutes from downtown Houma! Everything you need for you, family, friends and the horses and cows! This is a
?? Exclusive Opportunity: Spectacular Estate-Sized Parcel Awaits! ???? Unveiling a rare gem in the real estate market, we proudly present an expansive and prestigious lot that dreams are made of! Behold, a remarkable opportunity to secure your very own piece of paradise! ?? Enchanting Expanse: Discover a sprawling canvas in a sought-after location, waiting to be transformed into your ultimate
?? Exclusive Opportunity: Spectacular Estate-Sized Parcel Awaits! ???? Unveiling a rare gem in the real estate market, we proudly present an expansive and prestigious lot that dreams are made of! Behold, a remarkable opportunity to secure your very own piece of paradise! ?? Enchanting Expanse: Discover a sprawling canvas in a sought-after location, waiting to be transformed into your ultimate
THIS HOME IS NOT IN A FLOOD ZONE Welcome to 313 Louis Dr, Houma, LA — a beautifully updated home offering style, comfort, and outdoor enjoyment. This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home features a bright open floor plan that seamlessly connects the living area to the kitchen, creating the perfect space for entertaining and everyday living. The kitchen is tastefully updated with granite countertops, modern
This beautifully renovated 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home at 119 Henderson St in Houma offers approximately 1,600 sq ft of comfortable living space and is truly move-in ready. Completely refreshed from top to bottom, the property boasts a brand-new roof, new gutters, a new AC system, durable Hardie board siding, and Poly Pro insulation underneath for superior energy efficiency and protection in the
Discover newly renovated living at Acadia Park Apartments! Select homes now feature new flooring, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, in-home washer and dryer, and upgraded finishes throughout. All homes include private outdoor living space and oversized closets.Our community offers oversized swimming pool, shaded courtyards, onsite laundry facilities, pet-friendly living,
Downtown Cottage available immediately! 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath, Living and Formal Dining. Updated floors, Stove and Refrigerator included. Washer/Dryer Hookups. Tenant must maintain grass and all utilities. Application and Background required.
Shirin Nail/ Cynthia PellegrinGood Earth Realty, Inc.
At Quail Court Apartments, we pride ourselves upon providing a convenient lifestyle for our residents. We are located in the heart of Houma, LA -- just minutes away from shopping, restaurants, entertainment and more! In our spacious 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, we have the perfect apartment to suit your needs. Each apartment home has a fully-equipped kitchen, bath, and comes with 2 large
Cute Cute redone small 3bed 1 bath cozy home is ready for you! oversized laundry, love the bathroom. Nice tree shaded fenced back yard/. Please call for initial application if owner approves the basic application tenant will do a RENTSPREE appliacation at tenants cost $40 per adult. This application will pull out back ground check and credit history.
Shirin Nail/ Cynthia PellegrinGood Earth Realty, Inc.
Where you choose to call home is an important decision. After all, it’s the foundation of where you begin and end each day. That’s why we’ve designed our one, two and three bedroom apartments with all the comforts and conveniences you need for extraordinary living.From outstanding architectural design to our charming pond, Belmere Apartments is an extraordinary community designed to
Welcome To The General Lee! A Unique Estate That You Won't Help But To Fall In Love With! This Over 3,000 Sq Ft Living Home Has Charm Like No Other! Set On A Beautiful And An Established Neighborhood Of Barrios! This 4 Bedroom Well Built Home Has Many Special Spaces! It Includes A Formal Dining Room, Library, Media/Flex Room Which Is Currently Used As A Yoga Studio! No Need To Pull Down Stairs
Welcome to Southdown Pavilion, a welcoming apartment community in the heart of Houma, offering comfortable living with convenient access to everything you need. Located at 3166 Highway 315, this community places you near shopping, dining, schools, and major employers while maintaining a peaceful residential atmosphere.Designed with practicality and comfort in mind, Southdown Pavilion features
Quaint 3 bedroom 2 bath house in the heart of Houma. Close proximity to downtown and just off the Mardi Gras parade route. Please contact office for application. Owner/Agent
Zurqui at Chateau is a magnificent 120-apartment complex that has recently undergone a stunning renovation, offering you the perfect blend of modern comfort and affordability. Nestled within this serene community, youll discover your ideal home, featuring a range of inviting amenities and upscale interior finishes.
Charming 2-Bedroom Apartment – All Utilities Included! Move-In Ready Welcome home to this comfortable and conveniently located 2-bedroom, 1-bath apartment that’s ready for you to move in today! This well-maintained unit offers a functional layout with plenty of natural light, creating a warm and inviting space. Enjoy stress-free living with all utilities included, making budgeting simple and
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