Is DeRidder Safe, Pros and cons of living in DeRidder
DeRidder, Louisiana, offers a glimpse into the heart of Southwest Louisiana, blending a small-town atmosphere with the conveniences of a larger region. This city, situated in Beauregard Parish, is known for its connection to the timber industry and its proximity to significant natural resources. It provides a unique living experience for those seeking a balance between a rural setting and accessible amenities.
The community is characterized by its friendly residents and a pace of life that reflects its Southern roots. DeRidder’s appeal lies in its ability to offer a sense of belonging while maintaining a connection to the broader economic and cultural landscape of Louisiana. The city’s development has been shaped by its history, its natural surroundings, and the evolving needs of its population.
Is it Safe to Live in DeRidder?
When considering a move to DeRidder, understanding the safety of the community is paramount. Recent data indicates that the overall crime rate in DeRidder is higher than the national average. Specifically, the crime safety grade is rated as a C as of 2026 (DoorProfit). The overall crime rate is 14% above the national average, with DeRidder having a higher crime rate than 76% of major U.S. cities (DoorProfit).
Violent crime in DeRidder is also a concern, with an estimated rate of 512.9 per 100,000 residents, which is 35% higher than the national average (DoorProfit). This translates to a chance of about 1 in 195 for residents to become a victim of violent crime annually (DoorProfit). Property crime rates are even higher, at 2,970.2 per 100,000 residents, which is 62% above the national average (DoorProfit). This results in an approximate 1 in 34 chance of being a victim of property crime each year (DoorProfit).
Housing and Cost of Living
DeRidder presents a more affordable housing market compared to national averages. The average home value in DeRidder is approximately $176,172 as of March 2026, showing a slight decrease of 1.8% over the past year (Zillow). The median home value is also noted as $166,192 (Livability.com). Rental costs are also comparatively low, with the average rent for all bedroom counts and property types being $1,300 as of May 2026 (Zumper, Zillow). This is 33% lower than the national average rent (Zumper).
The overall cost of living in DeRidder is also favorable, being 7% lower than the national average (AreaVibes, Salary.com). This affordability extends to various categories, including housing, food, transportation, and healthcare (ERI Economic Research Institute). For example, housing costs are noted as being 18% lower than the national average (AreaVibes).
Job Market and Economy
The job market in DeRidder is influenced by local industries and its proximity to larger economic centers. The average annual salary in DeRidder is reported to be around $44,000 per year, or $21.15 per hour (Zippia). However, other sources suggest a median household income of $59,801 (Data USA) or $63,386 (Livability.com). The unemployment rate for Louisiana as a whole was 4.4% in March 2026 (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Key employers in the DeRidder area include Packaging Corporation of America (PCA), Canfor, and AMERISAFE, leveraging the region’s resources and workforce (City of DeRidder). The presence of Fort Johnson, an Army installation, also contributes significantly to the local economy, generating over 15,000 jobs and substantial payroll annually (City of DeRidder).
Climate and Environment
DeRidder experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by long, hot, and oppressive summers, and short, mild winters. The temperature typically varies between 42°F and 92°F throughout the year, rarely dropping below 29°F or exceeding 97°F (Weather Spark). July is generally the hottest month, with average highs around 91°F and lows of 73°F, while January is the coldest, with average lows of 42°F and highs of 60°F (Weather Spark).
Precipitation is abundant throughout the year, with an average annual rainfall of approximately 64 inches (Livability.com, NOAA). The region has a humid subtropical climate with no dry season (Climate-Data.org). The weather is wet and partly cloudy year-round (Weather Spark).
Education and Schools
The educational landscape in DeRidder is served by the Beauregard Parish School System. DeRidder High School is rated with a B- overall by Niche, serving students in grades 8-12 (Niche). State test scores indicate that 37% of students are proficient in math and 42% in reading (Niche).
DeRidder Junior High School also holds a B- rating from Niche, catering to students in grades 6-8 (Niche). The public schools in DeRidder are generally considered above average (Niche). The Beauregard Parish School District as a whole receives a B+ rating (Niche).
Demographics and Community
DeRidder has a population of approximately 9,763 residents as of recent estimates (World Population Review, Census Dots). The racial composition includes about 53.8% White, 28.4% Black or African American, 12.5% Multiracial, and smaller percentages for Asian and Native American populations (Census Dots, Point2Homes). The median age in DeRidder is around 37.6 years (World Population Review, Data USA).
The community exhibits a conservative tendency, with many families and young professionals choosing to live there. Residents often describe the area as having a suburban rural mix feel, with a majority of residents owning their homes (Niche). The city is the parish seat of Beauregard Parish, contributing to its role as a central hub for the surrounding area (World Population Review).