Is Opelousas Safe, Pros and cons of living in Opelousas
Is it Safe to Live in Opelousas?
Opelousas faces significant challenges regarding crime rates. The overall crime rate is substantially higher than the national average, with property crime being more prevalent than violent crime. Residents have a notable risk of becoming victims of property crimes, such as larceny/theft, burglary, and vehicle theft, all of which occur at rates considerably above the national average (as reported by DoorProfit and NeighborhoodScout).
Violent crime rates in Opelousas are also alarmingly high, placing the city in a concerning safety percentile when compared to other U.S. cities. The risk of experiencing violent crime, including aggravated assault and murder, is significantly elevated. Safety can vary by neighborhood, and careful research into specific areas is strongly advised before considering a move (as reported by DoorProfit and CrimeGrade.org).
Crime Statistics Overview
The crime statistics for Opelousas indicate a serious concern for residents and potential newcomers. The city’s overall crime rate is approximately 240% above the national average (as reported by DoorProfit). Specifically, larceny/theft rates are 318% above the national average, and murder rates are 260% higher (as reported by DoorProfit).
Property crime presents a significant risk, with an estimated rate of 8,155.2 per 100,000 residents, which is 345% higher than the national average (as reported by DoorProfit). This translates to about a 1 in 12 chance of being a property crime victim annually. The violent crime rate is also considerably higher, with residents facing roughly a 1 in 68 chance of becoming a victim each year (as reported by DoorProfit).
Neighborhood Safety Variations
While the city as a whole presents a high crime rate, safety can differ significantly between neighborhoods within Opelousas. Some analyses suggest that the southern part of the city may be considered safer than other areas. Conversely, the northern parts of Opelousas tend to see a higher number of incidents.
This variation underscores the importance of detailed neighborhood-specific research for anyone considering relocation. Understanding these local differences can provide a more nuanced picture of safety beyond the city-wide statistics (as reported by CrimeGrade.org).
Cost of Living and Housing in Opelousas
Opelousas offers a cost of living that is generally lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordability. Housing costs, in particular, contribute significantly to this lower cost of living, with both home values and rental prices being substantially below national benchmarks. This affordability extends to various aspects of daily life, including food and energy expenses.
The median home value in Opelousas is considerably less than the national median, and the median rent is also significantly lower. This makes homeownership and renting more accessible compared to many other areas. The housing market, however, shows some fluctuations, with recent trends indicating a decrease in median property values and an increase in days on the market for homes sold (as reported by Niche, Zillow, and Redfin).
Housing Costs
The median home value in Opelousas is around $105,100, which is considerably lower than the national average of $332,700 (as reported by Niche). This trend is also reflected in Zillow’s data, which indicates an average home value of $123,099, showing a decrease over the past year (as reported by Zillow). Redfin reports a median sale price of $141,000 in March 2026 (as reported by Redfin).
Rental prices are also notably lower. The average rent for all property types in Opelousas is approximately $925 per month (as reported by Zillow), and another source indicates a median rent of $972 per month (as reported by Apartments.com and Realtor.com). This makes Opelousas a more affordable option for renters compared to many other areas.
Affordability and Expenses
The overall cost of living in Opelousas is estimated to be 3% lower than the U.S. national average, and significantly lower than Louisiana’s state average (as reported by Salary.com). This affordability is driven by lower expenses in housing, transportation, and food. For example, housing costs are approximately 14.1% lower than the national average (as reported by Salary.com).
Food expenses are also about 4.7% below average, and energy, transportation, and healthcare costs are roughly 23.4% lower (as reported by Salary.com). These combined factors contribute to Opelousas being considered one of America’s less expensive cities to live in. The median household income, however, is notably lower than the national average, which is an important consideration when evaluating overall financial well-being (as reported by Data USA and Point2Homes).
Job Market and Economy
Opelousas’s economy is characterized by a diverse range of industries, with healthcare and social assistance, retail trade, and manufacturing being prominent sectors. The job market has seen some fluctuations, with a slight decline in employment in recent years. However, there are ongoing efforts to stimulate economic growth through new business development and revitalization projects.
The unemployment rate in the Opelousas micro area has shown some variability, but it remains relatively stable. Major employers in the region include healthcare systems, retail giants, and the casino and racetrack industry, providing a range of employment opportunities. The average salary in Opelousas is lower than the national average, but the cost of living also tends to be lower, which can help offset this difference (as reported by Data USA, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and ZipRecruiter).
Major Employers and Industries
The leading industries in Opelousas are Health Care & Social Assistance, Retail Trade, and Manufacturing (as reported by Data USA). Opelousas General Health System is a significant employer, along with Walmart Supercenters and a distribution center (as reported by St. Landry Parish Economic Development). Evangeline Downs Racetrack & Casino also plays a role in the local economy and employment.
Other key employers include companies in the drilling, construction, and food processing sectors. The city has also seen new businesses opening, such as Chick-fil-A, Hobby Lobby, and Whataburger, which are expected to contribute to job growth and economic activity (as reported by St. Landry Now Online Newspaper and YouTube).
Employment and Wages
The employed population in Opelousas has seen some recent decline, but efforts are underway to foster growth (as reported by Data USA). The unemployment rate for the Opelousas, LA Micro Area was 5.6% in 2023 (as reported by CensusDepth). The average salary in Opelousas is reported to be around $39,940 annually, or approximately $19.20 per hour, although other sources indicate a higher average salary of $61,364 per year (as reported by ZipRecruiter and ERI SalaryExpert).
This average salary is lower than the national average, but it is important to consider this in conjunction with the lower cost of living in Opelousas. The median household income is also lower than the national average, with a poverty rate that is significantly higher (as reported by Data USA and Point2Homes).
Climate in Opelousas
Opelousas experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. The region receives a substantial amount of rainfall throughout the year, with precipitation spread relatively evenly across the months. Temperatures in the summer can reach high levels, while winter temperatures remain mild, with very little to no snowfall.
The proximity to Lafayette Regional Airport means that local climate conditions can have slight variations. The area generally experiences warm weather for a significant portion of the year, with distinct seasonal changes in temperature and rainfall patterns (as reported by NOAA Climate Normals and Time and Date).
Temperature and Rainfall
Opelousas has warm summers with high temperatures, and mild winters. The average high temperature throughout the year is around 92°F, and the average low is 57°F (as reported by Livability.com). January typically sees average temperatures with highs around 63°F and lows of 43°F (as reported by Time and Date).
The city receives a considerable amount of precipitation, with an average annual rainfall of approximately 64 inches (as reported by Livability.com). Monthly precipitation data shows varying amounts, with some months receiving more rainfall than others, contributing to the humid climate (as reported by NOAA Climate Normals).
Education and Demographics
Opelousas has a population that is predominantly Black or African American, with a significant White population as well. The city has a median age that is slightly younger than the national average, with a notable percentage of its population being children and individuals under 18. The demographic makeup suggests a community with a strong cultural identity and a blend of age groups.
The school system in Opelousas includes public and private options, with varying ratings. Niche provides overall grades for schools, with some elementary and high schools receiving C grades, while others like Magnet Academy for Cultural Arts receive a B+ rating. The quality of education can be a significant factor for families considering a move to the area (as reported by Niche, US Census Bureau, and Data USA).
Demographic Profile
Opelousas is home to approximately 15,500 residents, with a majority identifying as Black or African American (around 78%) and a significant portion identifying as White (around 16.6%) (as reported by Data USA and Point2Homes). The population is largely comprised of U.S. citizens, with a high homeownership rate in some estimates, though other data suggests a lower rate (as reported by Data USA, Niche, and Data USA).
The median age in Opelousas is around 37 years, with a distribution that includes a substantial number of children and a significant elderly population (as reported by Data USA and Point2Homes). The gender distribution shows a slightly higher percentage of females compared to males.
School System Overview
The educational landscape in Opelousas includes several public and private institutions. Niche.com provides ratings for these schools, with Magnet Academy for Cultural Arts receiving a B+ rating. However, other public schools like Opelousas Senior High School and Opelousas Junior High School have received lower grades, such as C- (as reported by Niche).
These ratings are based on analyses of academic performance, student-teacher ratios, and reviews. Families looking for educational opportunities should research individual school performance and offerings to find the best fit for their children.
Pros and Cons of Living in Opelousas
Opelousas offers a distinct lifestyle with both advantages and disadvantages for potential residents. The primary draw for many is the significantly lower cost of living, particularly in housing, making it an affordable place to reside. The community also has a strong cultural identity and a generally conservative leaning, which can appeal to certain individuals and families.
However, the city faces considerable challenges, most notably its high crime rates, which are well above the national average. This is a critical factor for anyone considering a move. The job market, while present, offers average salaries that are lower than the national figures, and the poverty rate is notably high.
Pros
The most significant advantage of living in Opelousas is its affordability. The cost of living is substantially lower than the national average, driven by lower housing prices and rents (as reported by Niche and Salary.com). This makes it an attractive option for individuals and families looking to stretch their budget.
The community atmosphere is often described as having a sparse suburban feel, with a conservative leaning (as reported by Niche). For those seeking a slower pace of life and a close-knit community, Opelousas may offer that experience. The city also has a rich cultural heritage, which is a significant aspect of its identity.
Cons
The most substantial con of living in Opelousas is its high crime rate. Both violent and property crimes are significantly above national averages, posing a serious safety concern for residents (as reported by DoorProfit and NeighborhoodScout). This is a critical consideration for anyone evaluating a move to the city.
Additionally, the average salary and median household income in Opelousas are lower than the national average (as reported by Data USA and ZipRecruiter). The poverty rate is also considerably high, which can impact the overall economic well-being of the community. While the cost of living is low, the lower incomes may present challenges for some.