Laplace's title as "Andouille Capital of the World"
The community of Laplace lies on the East Bank of the Mississippi, upriver from New Orleans. While Louisiana is known for its French heritage, Laplace was part of what was known as the “German Coast” — an area that saw heavy German immigration in the 19th century. The influence is evident in the community’s culture and, more specifically, its cuisine. In 1972, Louisiana Governor Edwin Edwards proclaimed Laplace the “Andouille Capital of the World,” noting the quality and ubiquity of the smoked sausage in the area. Today, the community offers quiet residential neighborhoods and access to Interstates 10 and 55 while celebrating its sausage supremacy with an annual festival.
The Laplace neighborhood has a small town feel while close to the big city of New Orleans.
Jacob's World Famous Andouille has been making traditional andouille since 1928.
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One-story homes and larger Acadian-style houses
Much of Laplace is residential, with the community’s older neighborhoods sitting closer to the river and newer subdivisions located further away. Ranch-style homes often date from the mid- to late-20th century, while new traditional houses were built more recently. These one-story properties typically sell between $150,000 and $300,000. Laplace also offers larger Acadian-style houses, ranging from around $300,000 to $600,000.
Ranch Style homes mixed with two-story homes line the streets of Laplace.
Historic homes are found along the banks of the Mississippi River, like this Acadian home.
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Shopping centers and restaurants, like Mabile's, along Airline Highway
Most of Laplace’s shopping and dining options sit around the community’s main commercial corridor of Airline Highway. Shopping centers like Riverlands have shops including Dollar Tree and Harbor Freight, while big box stores and supermarkets such as Walmart and Winn-Dixie are also located in the area’s commercial heart. Restaurants include chains like Wendy’s, plus local spots like Mabile’s Restaurant. “Mabile’s is serving up probably the best po boys in the greater New Orleans area,” says Blaine Tatje, the broker and co-founder of Forte Realty, who grew up in Laplace. “They’re fantastic. They also serve some good hot lunches too. That place is always packed.” Jacob’s World Famous Andouille, open since 1928, helped Laplace gain its meaty moniker and sells its smoked sausage from its store off Airline Highway.
Enjoy a delicious shrimp poboy from Mabile's Restaurant in Laplace.
Head over to the local Walmart for groceries and other shopping needs.
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The annual Andouille Festival each October
As the “Andouille Capital of the World,” Laplace hosts the annual Andouille Festival every October at the St. John the Baptist Parish Community Center. The weekendlong sausage celebration draws residents and visitors alike with food, carnival rides and live music, all topped off with a second line parade. “It’s definitely the largest event that the parish holds,” Tatje says. “It’s the only parish-wide festival. It’s a great family-friendly event with live music and rides and games, and things like that.” The community also puts on an annual pageant, with the winners crowned Miss Andouille and Teen Andouille.
Easy access to big cities via Interstate 10
The Mississippi River borders Laplace to the south, and Interstate 10 runs along the community’s north edge. New Orleans is roughly 25 miles away, with Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport approximately 15 miles from Laplace. Baton Rouge is 55 miles the other way. “It’s right in the middle of Baton Rouge and New Orleans, so we attract people who work in both hubs,” Tatje says. “It’s served as a middle spot for a long time.”
Parish parks and library within Laplace
Laplace’s largest park, Thomas F. Daley Memorial Park, is administered by St. John the Baptist Parish and sits alongside the parish’s community center. The park includes a playground, a splash pad and a track around the area’s ample green space. The Laplace Branch of the St. John the Baptist Parish Library is located next to the park and has offerings like podcast studios and makerspaces. Smaller neighborhood spots, such as Greenwood Park and Stephanie Wilking Park, often include playgrounds. Two golf courses are located within the community, with both Belle Terre Country Club and Riverlands Golf and Country Club open to the public.
Thomas F. Daley Memorial Park has many activities for everyone to enjoy.
Residents of Laplace utilize the computers provided at St. John the Baptist Parish Library.
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St. John the Baptist Parish Public Schools and private options
The St. John the Baptist Parish Public Schools system serves Laplace and receives a D-plus overall grade from Niche. Students can attend one of the four elementary schools within the community, all of which teach kindergarten through eighth grade, before mainly heading to East St. John High. Many families choose to send their children to private schools, including St. Charles Catholic High, which receives a B-plus grade from Niche.
East St. John High School earned a D+ grade from Niche.
St. Charles Catholic High School has earned a B+ grade from Niche.
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Environmental issues
Laplace is between Baton Rouge and New Orleans, in the corridor sometimes nicknamed “Cancer Alley.” Environmental Protection Agency data indicates a higher-than-normal cancer risk due to air and water pollution from the area’s chemical plants. While pollution has dropped from its peak in the 1980s, the agency still reports higher levels than recommended.
Written By
Brendan Doyle
Photography Contributed By
Clayton Hurst
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Laplace Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Laplace, LA sell after 50 days on the market compared to the national average of 70 days. The median sale price for homes in Laplace, LA over the last 12 months is $220,000, up 26% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
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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.
