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.
Due to its proximity to the Gulf, Morgan City is subjected to frequent hurricanes.
Discovery the history of the offshore oil industry at The Rig Museum in Morgan City.
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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.
Morgan City is home to many early 20th century craftsman and bungalows.
Morgan City has a variety of home styles including beautiful ranch homes.
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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.
Vacationers enjoy water actives and camping at Lake End Park in Morgan City.
Morgan City residents love to run and play together at historic Lawrence Park.
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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.
The dedicated teacher of Morgan City High School earned an A- grade from Niche.
Morgan City Junior High earned a B- grade from Niche.
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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.
Shannon Hardware has been a Morgan City staple since 1872.
Morgan City can pick up groceries from a variety of chain stores like Rouses.
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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.
Written By
Lia Jones
Photography Contributed By
Clayton Hurst
Video By
Mark Barakat
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Morgan City, LA sell after 161 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Morgan City, LA over the last 12 months is $147,725, down 22% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Located in beautiful Oak Harbor Estates, this stunning 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home offers an expansive open-concept/split floor plan perfectly designed for functional living and entertaining. The interior is defined by elegant 10-foot ceilings and crown molding, centered around an open concept floor plan. The kitchen features a spacious island with granite countertops and stainless appliances
Move-In Ready! Welcome to 1117 Shaw Dr. in Morgan City! This well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers 1,534 sq ft of comfortable living space packed with features buyers are searching for. Step inside to find new flooring throughout, a spacious living area with a cozy wood-burning fireplace, and a functional floor plan designed for everyday living. The kitchen offers ample workspace along
Assumable FHA Loan Option ~ Move-in ready! This spacious home offers 4 bedrooms and 2 baths. The kitchen is the heart of the home, featuring vaulted ceilings, a beautiful island, stainless steel appliances, a farmhouse sink, and plenty of space for family gatherings. Completely remodeled in 2018, it also comes with a transferable flood policy and foundation warranty. Schedule a private showing
The Exquisite Oak Harbor Estates is the setting for this Beautiful Waterfront Property! Perfect Location to build your Dream Home on this 0.26 +/- Acre Lot overlooking a Tranquil Waterfront View on a Private Canal. Prime Fishing Location with Access to Lake Palourde, Lake Verret and Grassy Lake!
~1635 Filmore St.~ Welcome home to this beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bath property offering 2,105 sq. ft. of living space on a desirable corner lot. The home features an open kitchen, spacious living room, and a bonus family room or office for added flexibility. Enjoy the screened-in back patio and the beautiful oak tree that accents the front yard. Washer and dryer are included for your
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Spacious two-story home offering 2,956 square feet of comfortable living! Featuring five bedrooms and three full baths, this home has room for everyone. Enjoy a large living room with a cozy wood-burning fireplace, a bright family room, and a game room that’s perfect for entertaining. You’ll find plenty of storage throughout, plus an outdoor covered patio, an additional full bath, an enclosed
~811 Belanger St.~ This charming move-in ready home is waiting for its new owners! It features 1,693 sq ft of living space, 2 bedrooms, 2 full baths, and a bonus room that could serve as a 3rd bedroom or office. The primary bedroom is generously sized with two large closets. The spacious kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances. A detached garage offers space for parking or a workshop, with rear
MOTIVATED SELLER ! Waterfront 3 bed / 2 bath gem! Enjoy bright, open living with scenic water views, a well-appointed kitchen, and a spacious primary suite. This property includes a WHOLE HOME GENERATOR and has NO HOA Restrictions! Comfortable layout ideal for everyday living and entertaining, plus private outdoor space to relax by the water and savor stunning sunsets. Conveniently located near
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