9 Safest Towns In Louisiana For Senior Living
Louisiana is known for its history, mouthwatering Cajan cuisine, music, and a laid-back atmosphere that makes it a favorite for both tourists and retirees. But for seniors looking to settle down in a place that’s not only charming but safe, choosing the right town can be a bit of a challenge.
Luckily, Louisiana has a few gems where safety isn’t just a number — it’s a lifestyle. These nine towns can provide peace of mind, welcoming communities, and an environment perfect for a relaxed, fulfilling retirement.
Addis
Addis may be small, but it’s a town that’s got its act together when it comes to safety. With a crime rate 92% lower than the Louisiana average, it’s the kind of place where your biggest concern might be whether or not to grab an extra shrimp po' boy at Pappy’s Seafood.
It’s a town big enough to have character but small enough for everyone to know each other. But it’s not just about low crime; Addis is a community that gets it right. The police here are vigilant, and neighborhood watch groups mean everyone keeps an eye out. It’s safe, affordable (cost of living is 14% below the state average), and a nice escape from the hustle of Baton Rouge.
Plus, for healthcare, The Baton Rouge General Medical Center — Bluebonnet is just a short drive away.
Harahan
Harahan isn’t just another sleepy suburb — it’s a place where safety meets convenience, with a crime rate 91% lower than the state median. Harahan is the sweet spot between peace and access to the excitement of the big city, located just outside New Orleans but close enough for a jazz-filled weekend if the mood strikes.
The Harahan Farmers Market gives locals access to fresh produce and local craft. The cost of living is near the Louisiana average, which makes it a great value for those who want to enjoy both suburban comfort and city thrills. Harahan proves you can have it all — calm, culture, and crawfish.
Rayne
Rayne, (the Frog Capital of the World), is a quirky little town with a crime rate 93% lower than the Louisiana average. It’s small but still packs a punch, and most importantly, it's where safety meets fun — with events like the Frog Festival celebrating the local culture.
As for healthcare, Acadia General Hospital in nearby Crowley is easily accessible and offers a range of services for seniors, including emergency care and specialized treatments. The town’s safe environment and cultural richness make it a perfect spot for retirees looking for something off the beaten path. The cost of living is 18% below the state average, meaning more money for those extra servings of crawfish!
Rayne is known for its art galleries, like Frog City Art Gallery & Café, and its history-packed downtown. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the oddities of small-town life without worrying about security. Safety, arts, and crawfish — it’s all here.
Covington
Covington is one of those towns that has a little bit of everything: history, low crime, and plenty of activities for seniors. The crime rate is 88% lower than the state average.
St. Tammany Parish Hospital is one of the best healthcare facilities in the area; it offers a full range of services and treatment. And if you love nature, Tammany Trace (a 31-mile recreational trail) is perfect for morning walks or bike rides.
The town’s historic district is full of cafes and galleries, like The Covington Trailhead, and is super walkable, so it’s easy to spend a whole afternoon exploring. With a cost of living 7% below the state average, Covington is quite an affordable way to enjoy all the cultural and outdoor perks Louisiana has to offer.
DeRidder
DeRidder is a town for those who want to embrace the beauty of nature while staying tucked away in a safe, quiet, and affordable town. Fortunately, the crime rate here is 90% lower than the Louisiana average, so retirees here can enjoy the wide-open spaces without the fear of crime.
DeRidder is home to the historic DeRidder Hanging Jail, and it offers great outdoor opportunities in Kisatchie National Forest, perfect for hiking, fishing, and birdwatching.
The local Beauregard Memorial Hospital ensures that medical care is nearby, it’s a close community where everyone knows everyone. The cost of living is 14% lower than the state average, making DeRidder a solid choice for those looking to retire with financial peace of mind as well.
Mandeville
Mandeville is the kind of town where life feels just a little bit more slow-paced and it’s all because it's situated along the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain. The town offers lakeside living, with a crime rate 80% lower than the state average. It's truly a haven for retirees who appreciate peace, nature, and a family-like community.
Mandeville’s healthcare is reliable, with Lakeview Regional Medical Center just a short drive away. For those who love local culture, Mandeville’s Coffee Runners is one popular cafe option, while the Mandeville Trailhead Cultural Interpretive Center brings in local art and performances. If a bit of luxury is what you seek, it’s only a short drive to the buzz of New Orleans, but in Mandeville, you’ll enjoy life at a slower, more easygoing pace (perfect for retirees).
Broussard
Broussard has everything seniors could want: a safe environment, a strong sense of community, and deep cultural roots. The crime rate is 82% lower than Louisiana’s average, so you can rest easy knowing that safety is a priority here. Located near Lafayette, Broussard allows retirees to enjoy the Cajun culture with easy access to fast-paced city life if they're looking for a change.
Lafayette General Medical Center is just a short drive away, and Broussard’s local festivals, like the Broussard Heritage Festival, give locals an authentic taste of Cajun life. Another win for Broussard? The cost of living is 9% below the state average.
Zachary
If there's anything Zachary stands out for, it's safety, with a crime rate 85% lower than Louisiana's average. The quaint local community is what makes Zachary special — everyone knows each other, and there’s always something going on, whether it’s a local event or just catching up at Zachary Market.
Healthcare is nearby (Our Lady of the Lake Medical Center), and the local food scene is one to write home about — like La Carreta, a delicious Mexican and Cajun fusion restaurant. With a cost of living about 8% below the state average, Zachary is the kind of town where you can enjoy your retirement with the assurance of security (financial and otherwise).
Westwego
Westwego might not be on the tip of everyone’s tongue, but perhaps it should be. Located just across the river from New Orleans, this town offers the safety of small-town living with the perks of the big city just a stone's throw away. The crime rate here is reassuring (80% lower than the Louisiana median) so it's a great choice for seniors looking for peace of mind and easy access to big city life in NOLA.
West Jefferson Medical Center offers top-sheld healthcare, including emergency services and senior health programs. Westwego’s Seafood Market and Farmers Market offer local, fresh fare, and if that's ever not enough, you can always make a quick trip into New Orleans to enjoy the city’s dining and entertainment scene. It’s the best of both worlds!
Safe and Welcoming Louisiana Towns for Seniors
Choosing the right place to retire isn’t just about numbers; it’s about how a town makes you feel. Whether it’s the comfort of a familiar café, the ease of getting to a good doctor, or the simple joy of a quiet street and friendly faces, each of these Louisiana towns offers something special. They’re places where life slows down just enough to enjoy it without ever feeling like you’re missing out. For seniors looking for safety, connection, and a little Southern soul, these towns might just be the perfect fit.
