Why Live in Monroe
Monroe's rich outdoor scene centers around the Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge, where residents enjoy hiking, fishing, and kayaking amid native wildlife. The Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo provides family entertainment with boat tours along Bayou Desiard, while the Biedenharn Museum & Gardens combines Coca-Cola history with beautiful gardens. Cultural attractions include the Masur Museum of Art and the Chennault Aviation & Military Museum. The dining scene features upscale Southern cuisine at Restaurant Cotton and Parish Restaurant & Bar, alongside waterfront dining at Warehouse No. 1 Restaurant and Trapp's Cajun & Seafood.
The housing market in Monroe includes diverse options across several neighborhoods. The median single family home price is $241,800, while townhomes have a median price of $165,000 and two bedroom condos typically sell for $135,000. North Monroe commands the highest prices with a median single family home price of $305,000, while the Garden District presents more moderate options at $186,800. The Southside Riverfront area features the most affordable single family homes with a median price of $41,500.
Monroe's cost of living sits 10.5% below the national average. A family with school age children needs approximately $94,000 annually to live comfortably, while renters require about $46,000. The combined sales tax rate is 10.12%, including a 5% state rate and 5.12% local rate. Monthly grocery costs average $1,500 for families and $700 for renters. Housing expenses run about $1,800 monthly for families and $1,300 for renters. The public school system includes highly rated West Monroe High School and Sterlington High School, both achieving A ratings. The University of Louisiana at Monroe serves as a major educational institution and employer, alongside other significant employers like Lumen Technologies and St. Francis Medical Center.
Home Trends in Monroe, LA
On average, homes in Monroe, LA sell after 99 days on the market compared to the national average of 70 days. The median sale price for homes in Monroe, LA over the last 12 months is $320,000, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Median Sale Price
$320,000
Median Single Family Sale Price
$325,000
Median Townhouse Sale Price
$2,350,000
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$136
Number of Homes for Sale
17
Last 12 months Home Sales
239
Median List Price
$345,000
Median Change From 1st List Price
1%
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
-1%