"Right in the Middle" of South Louisiana
Morgan City sits along the Atchafalaya River, deep in the heart of Acadiana. The river has played a significant role in the city’s development, with industries including fishing and offshore oil drilling finding a foothold. However, its proximity to some of Louisiana’s larger hubs has also helped the city of nearly 11,000 find its relevance — Morgan City’s motto, “Right in the Middle of Everywhere,” points to its access to Lafayette, Baton Rouge and New Orleans.
Morgan City's Shrimp and Petroleum Festival
Nearly 90 years ago, Morgan City began a tradition of blessing the fleet of fishing vessels that called the city home. The tradition eventually became a full-grown event celebrating the region’s shrimp production. But in 1967, the city added the area’s other primary industry into the title, giving it an uncommon name — the Shrimp and Petroleum Festival. Held each fall, it features a parade, a carnival and, of course, the blessing of the fleet. “The center of that is in our park, and they bring in all sorts of food vendors,” says Paula Anslum, the broker and owner of Anslum Real Estate and a lifelong resident of Morgan City. “It’s just a long weekend of family, food and fun.”
Access to Lafayette, Baton Rouge and New Orleans
As noted in the city’s motto, Morgan City is centrally located within South Louisiana. Baton Rouge and Lafayette are each roughly 60 miles away, while New Orleans is about 90 miles. U.S. Highway 90 is the main highway that runs through the city and will soon become part of Interstate 49, as planned by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development. Sidewalks line the city’s neighborhoods, but residents generally drive to their destinations throughout the area. “You can get from point A to point B in 10 minutes or less,” Anslum says. The Oschner St. Mary Hospital is located within the city.
Relatively affordable Morgan City homes
The median home price in Morgan City is $150,000, lower than that of nearby cities like Thibodaux and Houma and significantly lower than the national median. While ranch-style and split-level homes are within the city’s few subdivisions, most homes occupy the gridded blocks near downtown. Ranch-style homes are typical downtown as well but mix alongside smaller cottages, bungalows and shotgun-style houses.
Recreation on the Atchafalaya
Morgan City is bordered by the Atchafalaya on one side and Lake Palourde on the other, and residents enjoy time on the water. Some homes in the Lakeside subdivision have piers onto the lake, while Lake End Park has a marina, campsites and cabin rentals. Lawrence Park downtown has a playground and a historic gazebo. The Morgan City Petting Zoo is open most weekends, and its animals include goats, turtles and chickens.
St. Mary Parish Public Schools education
Morgan City students can attend school in the St. Mary Parish Public Schools system, which receives a B grade from Niche. Students filter from one of three elementary schools to Morgan City Junior High and Morgan City High. The high school offers Advanced Placement courses and dual enrollment programs with local colleges. Central Catholic High School is also in Morgan City and receives a B-plus from Niche.
Shopping and dining on Front Street
Right behind the floodwall from the Atchafalaya, Front Street is the focus of Morgan City’s downtown. Mainstays like Shannon Hardware have been around for decades, while newer favorites like Cafe JoJo’s have repurposed old storefronts. Small shops and restaurants sit mixed in with residential houses throughout the rest of downtown. Grocery stores like a Walmart Neighborhood Market and fast food joints like Popeyes are along Ninth Street and Louisiana Highway 182.
Crime rates and flood risk
According to FBI data, Morgan City’s violent crime and property crime rates are each above national and state numbers. While the violent crime rate has stayed steady, the property crime rate has dropped over the last five years.
Morgan City experiences hot, humid summers and mild winters. Its proximity to the Gulf Coast and low elevation makes it vulnerable to hurricanes. While levees and floodwalls protect parts of Morgan City, some are still within a FEMA-designated flood zone. Certain property owners are required to purchase flood insurance.
