Louisiana's 7 Best Retirement Towns Ranked

If affordable living, light tax burdens, and a mix of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences sound appealing, Louisiana could be the perfect place to retire. With 17.4% of its population aged 65 or older, the state provides retirees with tax-friendly policies, excluding Social Security and public pensions from taxation and a warm, subtropical climate. Whether it’s gardening year-round, casting a line in local waters, or exploring over 30 state parks, outdoor opportunities abound. Small towns offer senior living communities that encourage social connections, ensuring a comfortable and engaging retirement. When the time comes to settle into a place that truly feels like home, these top-ranked towns are worth exploring!

Westlake

Westlake is a scenic Louisiana town along the Calcasieu River that creates a welcoming environment for retirees looking to stay active and connected. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore nearby Sam Houston Jones State Park, a haven for hiking, birdwatching, and fishing. Within town limits, Pinederosa Park serves as a tranquil setting for picnics and social gatherings, whereas for golf lovers, The National Golf Club of Louisiana stands out as a premier destination, having a beautifully designed course where retirees can stay fit and socialize with friends.

Health services in Westlake ensure that residents have access to quality treatment. SouthStar Urgent Care handles immediate health concerns, and the Family Care Center of SW La delivers routine and specialized services. Just a short drive away in Sulphur, High Hope Care Center has skilled nursing and rehabilitation for those in need of long-term support. Beyond medical support, Westlake fosters an engaging retirement lifestyle through the Westlake Senior Center, a place for individuals aged 60 and older to participate in exercise programs, wellness education, crafting sessions, and lively games of bingo. With an average home price of $163,263 as of Feb 2025 [Zillow], Westlake delivers affordability alongside a fulfilling retirement experience.

Baker

The lively town of Baker brings residents together each year with the Baker Buffalo Festival, held annually in October. This cherished event features a festive parade, a Queen’s pageant, a car show, and abundant entertainment, making it a highlight of the year. Beyond seasonal celebrations, Baker has a variety of outdoor spaces to enjoy. Greenwood Community Park is designed for the whole family, with walking trails, fishing areas, and picnic spots perfect for a leisurely afternoon. For those seeking a peaceful retreat, just a short drive away, Cohn Arboretum in Baton Rouge has 16 acres of beautifully maintained landscapes showcasing more than 300 species of trees and shrubs, a butterfly garden, and a bamboo collection. Furthermore, retirees with visiting grandchildren can create lasting memories at nearby BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo, as animal encounters add to the experience.

Healthcare and senior living options are well-established in Baker. South Louisiana Primary Care provides local medical support, whereas River Oaks Nursing & Rehabilitation Center offers skilled nursing services for those needing additional support. Independent seniors can experience comfortable living at Crestview Village, a 50+ community designed for ease and convenience. Social engagement is a priority at the Baker Senior Center, which has wellness programs, group activities, and support services to help retirees stay active and connected. With an average home price of $175,751 as of Feb 2025, Baker becomes an economical option for retirees to settle down.

Rayne

If you’re searching for a town with a unique character and numerous activities, Rayne is a standout choice. Nicknamed the "Frog Capital of the World" and the "Louisiana City of Murals," this lively town embraces its heritage with an annual Frog Festival, held the second weekend in May. Since 1973, the event has drawn thousands of visitors with its frog racing and jumping contests, frog-eating competitions, carnival rides, and live music performances, creating a fun-filled atmosphere for all ages.

Beyond the festival, Rayne celebrates its identity year-round with murals, sculptures, and statues scattered throughout town, creating plenty to explore. For those looking to stay active, Gossen Memorial Park presents an inviting space for outdoor recreation, while Black Gold Casino and Miss Mamie's Casino add entertainment options for an afternoon out with friends.

Medical services are easily accessible through Rayne Family Healthcare, ensuring that medical needs are met without traveling far. Seniors in need of long-term assistance, memory support, or rehabilitation services can find quality assistance at Landmark of Rayne. In addition, retirees looking to stay engaged can participate in AARP-sponsored events, which encourage social connections and lifelong learning. With a median home price of $157,936, Rayne delivers affordability alongside its rich cultural appeal.

Westwego

Westwego is an excellent place to settle into retirement, with small-town comfort and easy access to close city amenities. With 17.3% of its population aged 65 or older, this riverside town creates a welcoming atmosphere for retirees looking to stay active and socially connected. It’s also an affordable choice, with a median home price of $147,054, significantly lower than the state median of $196,979.

Medical support is convenient, with Primary Care Plus offering essential medical services right in town. West Jefferson Medical Center is just a short drive away from Marrero for more comprehensive care. Meanwhile, assisted living options are available in nearby New Orleans at The Carrollton, ensuring long-term care is within reach. Retirees looking for social engagement will find an array of activities at the Westwego Senior Center, which hosts bingo, bean bag baseball, darts, Pedro, computer classes, line dancing, puzzle time, video aerobics, and group excursions.

For those who savor outdoor recreation, Bayou Segnette State Park is a local gem, featuring scenic walking trails, picnic areas, and fishing spots. Additionally, history enthusiasts can step back in time at the Westwego Historical Museum, which preserves the town’s rich maritime and railroad heritage. A favorite weekend stop is the Westwego Farmers & Fisheries Market, a lively hub where fresh seafood, locally grown produce, and regional crafts come together in a historic-inspired setting. The market fosters a strong sense of belonging with over 40 vendor booths, an amphitheater for live performances, and a packed calendar of festivals like the Annual Crawfish Cook-Off and Westwego Cypress Swamp Fest.

Bastrop

Bastrop stands out as an incredibly affordable place to retire, with a median home price of just $79,694 as of February 2025, significantly lower than Louisiana’s state median of $196,979. For those who prefer not to own a home, The Columns of Bastrop provides assisted living with personalized support, while Morehouse Council on Aging features caregiver services to support independent living. Health needs are well covered with Morehouse General Hospital in town, along with Cherry Ridge Skilled Nursing Facility for long-term assistance and rehabilitation.

Seniors will love being surrounded by the natural beauty of Chemin-A-Haut State Park, which sits atop a scenic bluff overlooking Bayou Bartholomew. The park’s serene setting features walking trails, picnic areas, and fishing spots along Big Slough Lake, where freshwater species thrive. History and culture also enrich life in Bastrop, with the Snyder Memorial Museum and Creative Arts Center preserving local heritage through exhibits and art displays. Elsewhere in town, Dotson Park has open space for relaxation, and book lovers can browse the Dunbar Branch Library for their next great read.

Abbeville

In the heart of Vermilion Parish, Abbeville gives retirees a setting in which community traditions and essential amenities come together. The town hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Louisiana Cattle Festival, the Daylily Festival and Garden Show, and the Giant Omelette Celebration, an event that draws visitors with its impressive 5,000-egg omelet prepared in Magdalen Square.

For those who enjoy time outdoors, Palmetto Island State Park provides a peaceful escape. Overnight guests can even stay in one of six vacation cabins, making it a great place for visiting family. History and culture are central to life in Abbeville, starting with Abbeville Main Street. Founder Père Megret designed the area around Magdalen Square, where a large gazebo and fountain still serve as gathering places. The Saint Mary Magdalen Catholic Church, a striking landmark, stands as a testament to the town’s deep-rooted heritage.

With 19.6% of the population aged 65 or older, Abbeville is already home to a strong retiree presence. The town’s affordability is another draw, with an average home price of $143,003 as of Feb 2025. For those who prefer a more supportive living environment, The Vermilion at Eastridge and Maison du Monde Living Center offer assisted living options. Abbeville General Hospital ensures access to medical attention whenever needed. On the other hand, Retirees looking for social engagement will find plenty to do at the Vermilion Senior Citizen Center.

Eunice

A town of around 9,100 residents, Eunice celebrates its musical heritage year-round. The Cajun Music Hall of Fame and Museum, founded in 1997, preserves the legacy of local musicians, while every Saturday night, the Liberty Theatre hosts "Laissez les bons temps rouler au rendezvous des Cajuns," a live Cajun music show that keeps the town’s rhythm alive. The town is also home to one of the largest Courir de Mardi Gras celebrations, as masked riders on horseback continue a centuries-old tradition. In early spring, food lovers flock to the World Championship Crawfish Étouffée Cook-off, filling the air with the unmistakable aroma of Louisiana’s signature dish.

Beyond music, Eunice embraces its rich heritage through the Prairie Acadian Cultural Center, part of the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve. More than just a museum, this space transforms into a gathering place where visitors can listen to live music and sample Cajun specialties prepared on-site. With 17% of the population aged 65 or older, Eunice is already home to many retirees who appreciate its relaxed pace of life. The cost of living is another highlight, with an average home price of $117,038, significantly lower than Louisiana’s state median. For those needing medical support, Acadian Medical Center is in the center of town, providing a range of medical services. Eunice Manor was recently recognized on Newsweek’s 2022 list of America's Best Nursing Homes, and Oak Lane Wellness and Rehabilitation Center has assisted living and skilled nursing. The Cajun Area Agency on Aging also plays a key role in supporting seniors by coordinating services that promote independence and well-being.

Finding the Right Retirement Town in Louisiana

Finding the ideal place to retire is a personal decision shaped by lifestyle preferences and practical considerations. Some retirees seek a peaceful setting surrounded by nature, while others prioritize access to wellness services, social engagement, or cultural experiences. The key is finding a place that balances practical needs with an enjoyable lifestyle. Louisiana’s best retirement towns offer affordable living, quality healthcare, and plenty of opportunities for recreation and socializing. Whether it’s fishing along the bayou, joining local festivals, or simply cherishing a welcoming atmosphere, these seven towns make retirement both comfortable and fulfilling.