9 Best Places To Retire In Louisiana

Known for a thriving jazz culture, a plethora of awesome museums and galleries, and a warm, subtropical climate, the picturesque state of Louisiana is ideal for the active person seeking to retire. As it is more temperate during winter than most other locations in America, Louisiana offers some great year-round amenities aimed at experiencing nature without worrying about being cold all the time. Whether it is community-oriented social activities, superb natural attractions, or accessibility to exceptional healthcare, Louisiana is the place to consider. From Minden and the Caney Lakes Recreation Area to Natchitoches and the Cane River, these nine towns in Louisiana offer tranquility and peace without sacrificing excellent healthcare and a phenomenal quality of life.

Minden

Picturesque Minden is one of the best places to retire in Louisiana and possibly the United States. This is probably due to a vista of stunning natural venues, like Caney Lakes Recreation Area, which offers lake areas and trails for boating, fishing, and hiking throughout the day. Those interested in a relaxing campout can also set up at one of the many camps with electric and water hookups available. Seniors interested in local history can also spend time at the nearby Germantown Colony Museum, which details the story of settlers in the region.

The town also has many attributes for seniors, such as the Minden Medical Center and Mt. Calms Senior Hamlet, which provide excellent care and even better comfort. The pastoral town of Minden is home to some other superb assisted-living places, including the Columns of Germantown and Arbor of Minden. Ode to this, over 17% of Minden’s population is over 65, creating a comfortable environment for retirees.

Alexandria

Another great town to consider when looking for a perfect place to retire, Alexandria is home to many awesome attractions, including the Kent Plantation, which presents events like the Sugar Days Festival and Fall Herb Day & Yard Sale. These events unite the community, perfect for those who want a home away from home. Those looking for a different experience can stop by the Alexandria Museum of Art for some paintings or Pamela’s Bayou in a Bowl, the latter featuring a delicious Cajun-Creole menu.

No matter what you plan on doing, the town is easy to navigate thanks to ATRANS, which offers regional mass transit by bus. Regarding accommodation, The Summit Retirement Center and Our Lady Manor, two excellent independent and assisted living centers, are conveniently located in downtown Alexandria, as well. Our Lady’s Manor even offers 1 & 2-bedroom floor plans with many great amenities, like local physicians who make house calls.

Opelousas

Nestled in the heart of St. Landry Parish, Opelousas combines small-town charm with a rich cultural heritage, making it an excellent choice for retirees. Known as the Zydeco Music Capital of the World, this historic town offers a lively atmosphere while maintaining a serene environment perfect for those seeking relaxation. Opelousas’ downtown area boasts unique attractions, such as Le Vieux Village, a heritage park showcasing 17th-century buildings, including an early medical office and a general store, which provide a glimpse into the town's storied past. It comes to life on the first Friday of December thanks to the Christmas Lighting event, which seniors will surely enjoy.

For retirees, Opelousas offers a supportive community and excellent amenities. The St. Landry Council on Aging fosters fellowship and provides resources like meal services and social activities for seniors. Independent living options include Holy Trinity Villa, a state-of-the-art fitness center and vibrant social opportunities, and St. Bernadette Manor, located within driving distance of Opelousas General Hospital. These facilities ensure easy access to healthcare and a comfortable living experience.

Abbeville

The quaint town of Abbeville is home to many landmarks perfect for the active retiree, including Comeaux Park, where one can find walking trails within the town’s boundaries. Those looking for something more, Palmetto Island State Park, located just south of downtown, on the Vermilion River, offers canoeing, hiking, and camping overnight. Some other great amenities for retirees include Vermilion at Eastridge and La Maison Du Monde. Vermilion at Eastridge offers medical transportation, tasty meals, and several community-sponsored activities, while La Maison Du Monde provides individualized care through a doctor. If you want to live alone, Abbeville is ideal thanks to a median housing value of $135,000, which is $65,000 less than the state average.

New Iberia

New Iberia is home to many stunning natural locations, an optimal choice for the outdoor enthusiast seeking a comfortable place to retire. The Rip Van Winkle Gardens offer harmony through visiting a traditional Japanese tea house and tranquility by strolling among the picturesque gardens surrounding it. One can also stop by New Iberia City Park for the day, featuring walking trails, a pool, picnic amenities, and even a small pond.

With approximately 17% of residents over the age of 65, New Iberia is also home to some great assisted-living establishments, like Iberia Manor and Azalea Estates. The Iberia Parish Council on Aging also assists seniors with community support and outreach services. At the same time, Home Instead allows the active retiree to receive help with housekeeping, meal preparation, and medical assistance without over-affecting the individual's lifestyle.

Thibodaux

Located in Lafourche Parish, alongside the city of Schriever, the pastoral town of Thibodaux is an ideal place to stop and smell the roses. It has several natural attributes, like Peltier Park, Eric Andolsek Park, and Acadia Park, all of which are in downtown Thibodaux, making them easy for retirees to access. After an outing, one can grab a bite or drink at spots like Spahr’s Downtown and Big Mike’s BBQ Smokehouse.

With several assisted-living centers, like The Claiborne, which offers festivities like the Festival of Trees in December, there is always something for the active retiree to do and see in Thibodaux. Some other great attributes include the Senior Citizens Center on Canal Blvd., which is just up the street from Pelican Medical Supply, a short drive from the Regional Medical Center, and not far from Acadia Park.

Kenner

Located along the southern bank of Lake Pontchartrain, just outside New Orleans, the city of Kenner is an ideal place to retire, especially if you like the hustle of the big city. Home to several natural attractions, like Rivertown’s Heritage Park, which features its own Planetarium & MegaDome Cinema, the active retiree will not run out of things to occupy their time around town. Nearby, the Lakeside Shopping Center has plenty of great places for shopping and eating, such as JCPenney and P.F. Chang's.

With over 18% of the population above retirement age, several great living options are also available in Kenner. Nouveau Marc offers a well-rounded lifestyle, with a library, an activity room, and attributes aimed at enjoying each day to its fullest. There are also several premier medical centers in town to keep people healthy. River Oaks Hospital, Ochsner Health Center, and East Jefferson General Hospital are all located downtown, between the Mississippi and Lake Pontchartrain.

Covington

Picturesque Covington has a plethora of great attractions aimed toward any choice of lifestyle, including retiring in style. Located just north of Lake Pontchartrain and home to H.J. Smith & Sons General Store & Museum and Covington Trailhead Museum, Covington displays many historic and natural aspects simultaneously. Retirees can purchase their dream home in Covington thanks to the town’s affordable median home value of $313,000, which is $45,000 less than the national average. Moreover, the town features the St. Tammany Parish Hospital, which has an ER and state-of-the-art machinery for quality medical care.

Natchitoches

From the Badin-Roque House & Gardens, a stunning example of French Creole architecture, to the tranquil Beau Jardin along the Cane River, Natchitoches perfectly blends history and natural beauty. The town is also home to charming shops in the historic district, like Georgia’s Gift Shop and Hello Dolly, making it a delightful place to explore. Retirees can enjoy vibrant community events such as the renowned Natchitoches Christmas Festival, adding a lively touch to the town’s serene atmosphere.

With a population of just under 20,000, about 13% of whom are over 65, Natchitoches provides excellent amenities for retirees. The Natchitoches Parish Council on Aging offers low-cost housing and warm meals, while CenterWell Home Health provides personalized care, including help with meals, housekeeping, and medical needs.

Conclusion

From warm weather for practically the entire year to thriving social activities to an awesome quality of living, the rugged state of Louisiana, between Mississippi and Texas, is an ideal choice in many ways, especially for the active retiree. Whether you want to retire in a quaint, pastoral town with a variety of cultural attractions, like the Vermilion at Eastridge in Abbeville or wish for excellent healthcare, like at Holy Trinity Villa in Opelousas, these nine places in Louisiana are phenomenal communities to consider retirement.