Millions spent on redevelopment to address the people's needs
One of the most established residential parts of Lake Charles is also receiving the most updates. Sandwiched between the suburbs of Moss Bluff and the downtown area, North Lake Charles is changing dramatically. In 2023, a state bill established the North Lake Charles Redevelopment Authority, pumping millions of dollars' worth of updates to this previously underserved community's parks, infrastructure, housing and schools. It was a needed change for an area long afflicted by the fallout of hurricanes and highways. Despite all the investments and changes, many businesses and facilities that have long defined the neighborhood continue to maintain their place in the community. "The city's efforts currently have been to revitalize everything north of Broad Street and I-10," says executive director for the Arts & Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana Cameron Fultz. "I'm really proud of the work that our officials have been doing. It's a lot of work ahead of us. But I think they're trying to make things right. And I really enjoy knowing that I live and work in a place that prioritizes the people like that."
Experience nature's charm along the Calcasieu River in North Lake Charles.
Discover sprawling ranch houses nestled in the serene North Lake Charles.
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Post-hurricane investment cottages for low buy-in
Between the effects of hurricanes, redlining and urban renewal, housing in North Lake Charles continues to be the primary target for redevelopment. Cottages, ranchers and split-levels typically sell for between $80,000 and $120,000, although move-in-ready options are far less common than investment opportunities that may require substantial renovations. Over the years, many homes have been neglected or abandoned altogether, especially those wracked by the 2020 hurricane season. Some didn't withstand the storms at all, leaving behind an empty lot in the wake, while other damaged structures remain standing yet have not been given an appraisal and are thus sold for their land. A quarter-acre lot, up to 1 acre, typically sells for between $9,000 and $35,000. Meanwhile, structures needing repairs usually sell for between $22,000 and $75,000.
Explore the charm of family-friendly houses in North Lake Charles.
Tour the stunning Victorian houses that adorn North Lake Charles.
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Golf is coming to Jessie D. Clifton Park
Some services are less numerous in North Lake Charles than elsewhere in the city, but it does contain more parks than most other neighborhoods. Additionally, revitalization efforts have brought numerous park improvements. At Mary Belle Williams Park, local leaders cut the ribbon on new benches and pavilions in 2023, with additional plans to replace the park's jungle gym in the coming years. Plans to redevelop Jessie D. Clifton Park were also announced in 2023, including the construction of a putting green that will serve as a place for golf lessons and clinics.
New gymnasiums at Washington-Marion Magnet High School
Students begin school with grades K through 5 at Combre-Fondel Elementary. For grades 6 through 8, they age up to Ray D. Molo Magnet Middle School. Students then spend their last four years at Washington-Marion Magnet High School before graduating. All three schools have Niche scores of C and have received improvements in recent years amidst the community's redevelopment. In 2021, Combre-Fondel Elementary launched a STEM academy for its young students. Washington-Marion Magnet High School invested almost $50 million into constructing two new gymnasiums in 2022.
STEM crafts and book clubs at the Epps Memorial Branch Library
Indoor facilities provide activities for rainy days, plus a reliable venue for locals to mingle with one another while attending events. The Epps Memorial Branch Library hosts frequent programs for all ages, including monthly book clubs for adults and STEM-based arts and crafts classes for children. The Martin Luther King Jr Center also hosts weekly classes, programs and events for those who like to work with their hands, including classes for quilting and basic fabric alterations.
Discover divine inspirations at Recent Relics Antiques in North Lake Charles.
Explore endless shelves of books at Memorial Branch Library, North Lake Charles.
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Replacing the I-10 Bridge
Most residents rely on their cars to commute across the lake daily using the I-10 Bridge – a longtime pressure point for traffic that is expected to soon be replaced with a new bridge. "It is a very significant project, because that bridge is so old, and it's been talked about for the longest time," says Realtor Steve Rackley of R Home Real Estate LLC. "I think it's finally getting closer, but it's been all talk most of the time." Although two Paratransit bus routes do serve North Lake Charles, reaching as far north as the Walmart Supercenter on Martin Luther King Highway. Additionally, an Amtrak station in the southwest corner offers a stop in Lake Charles along the Sunset Limited train line between New Orleans and Los Angeles.
International groceries, seafood markets and Herbert's Specialty Meats
Though not the cultural epicenter of town, North Lake Charles offers a diverse array of local businesses. The diverse small business culture is especially emphasized by locally owned markets like Pinoy Asian Market, Herbert's Specialty Meats and Tommie's Fish Market. But, a Walmart Supercenter in the neighborhood's north end is how most locals keep their pantries stocked throughout the week. However, small businesses have stuck around amidst a growing list of chain and big box businesses along Martin Luther King Highway. Lynn's Seafood is still one of Lake Charles' most popular places for popcorn shrimp in all of Lake Charles. El Tapatio Tres adds to the diversity of the with sizzling fajitas and other Mexican fares. Some eateries are newer arrivals, like Biscuits&Jamz, which opened in 2022 and quickly stole the hearts of locals with Southern breakfast platters like pan-fried catfish with grits and eggs.
Experience the taste of tradition at Hebert's Specialty Meats in North Lake Charles.
Experience the taste of Asia at Pinoy Asian Market in North Lake Charles.
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Things to consider
Very little of North Lake Charles is in a flood zone. The only residential area with a special hazard risk is an unoccupied affordable housing facility on Shattuck Street. But that doesn't necessarily mean high water is never an issue for the rest of the area. "The grading and drainage isn't super great over there," Fultz says. Although sewers and drainage canals still flood when precipitation is heavy, the city is investing millions of dollars into improved drainage across the city, including parts of North Lake Charles. The neighborhood also has one of the highest concentrations of brownfields of any community in Lake Charles, with most sites clustered between I-10 and Railroad Avenue. Some of these sites have active cleanups happening while others remain untouched.
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
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an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Parks in this Area
Goosport Park
Perkins Ferey Park
Jessie D. Clifton Park
Riverside Park
Martin Luther King Jr Center
Mary Belle Williams Park
Combre Memorial Park
Booker Park
Brooks Park
Transit
Airport
Lake Charles Regional
20 min drive
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
North Lake Charles
US
Homicide
6
4
Sexual Assault
4
4
Assault with Weapon
6
4
Robbery
4
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
3
4
Larceny
3
4
Crime Score
4
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
North Lake Charles Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in North Lake Charles, Lake Charles sell after 84 days on the market compared to the national average of 49 days. The median sale price for homes in North Lake Charles, Lake Charles over the last 12 months is $64,000, down 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Completely Remodeled move in ready 3-Bed, 2-Bath Home!Step into this beautifully updated home featuring an open floor plan with a spacious living room and kitchen—perfect for entertaining! The kitchen is equipped with a dishwasher, electric stove, refrigerator, and an island for extra prep space. You’ll love the abundant cabinets and counter space!Each large bedroom boasts a walk-in closet,
Beautiful 90-acre parcel of land with development potential, recreational use, or the perfect setting for your dream home. Located just east of Washington Marion Magnet High School in Lake Charles, Louisiana, this property features 30 acres (of the 90 acres) in Flood Zone X, making it highly suitable for development. The property also features a 5-acre pond and borders the Kayouche Coulee River
Unlock the potential of this prime vacant lot in the heart of Lake Charles with a rare opportunity for savvy investors, builders, or future homeowners!Whether you’re looking to generate passive income or build and sell for profit, this property offers the flexibility and location to support your vision. Zoned for residential development, this lot is perfect for constructing a duplex, giving you
Discover Your Dream Home at 2600 ResidencesExperience Luxurious Living in lake charles.Key Features:Spacious Layouts: Choose from a variety of floor plans to suit your lifestyle.State-of-the-Art Amenities: Enjoy our fitness center,(coming soon) and resident lounge(.coming soon) laundry facility (coming soon)Prime Location: Conveniently located near i10Pet-Friendly
Welcome to this charming traditional-style residence, perfectly situated on a large, beautifully landscaped lot. This move-in ready home offers comfort, space, and versatility in every corner. Step into a bright and spacious living room that’s perfect for relaxing or entertaining guests. The large kitchen features ample cabinet space and room for casual dining.Enjoy the convenience of indoor
This 2 bed 2 full bath unit offers the perfect blend of comfort and style. Enjoy cooking in the modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances, including a refrigerator, stove, microwave, and dishwasher. It has a private, fenced in backyard, which offers a safe and secure place for your pets to play and roam. This unit is located walking distance from downtown, with easy access to the highway.
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Ambra Reinking,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
11,516
Median Age
40
Population Density
3 ppl/acre
Population under 18
26.3%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
21.3%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$30,677
Significantly below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$56,232
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
78%
College Graduates
12.6%
Below the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
3.6%
% Population in Labor Force
52.5%
Below the national average
65.1%
Area Factors
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score®
49/ 100
Somewhat Walkable
Walk Score®
56/ 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.
