Is Harahan Safe, Pros and cons of living in Harahan
Harahan, Louisiana, offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to the vibrant culture of New Orleans. This charming city, nestled in Jefferson Parish, provides a distinct community feel while remaining a stone’s throw from the amenities and excitement of a major metropolitan area. Residents often appreciate the quieter pace of life that Harahan affords, making it an appealing option for families, professionals, and retirees alike.
The city’s character is shaped by its history, community engagement, and its strategic location. Harahan is known for its dedicated police force, which contributes to a feeling of safety and security among its residents. Furthermore, the town’s layout, with a mix of residential areas and local businesses, fosters a sense of close-knit community. This environment is a significant draw for those seeking a more relaxed lifestyle without sacrificing proximity to urban conveniences.
Is it Safe to Live in Harahan?
Harahan generally presents a safe environment for its residents, with crime rates that are notably lower than national averages. The city reported a crime rate that is 61% lower than the national average (as reported by AreaVibes). This statistic is further bolstered by a significant reduction in violent crimes, which are 71% lower than the national average (as reported by AreaVibes).
The FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting program indicates that in Harahan, there were 12 reported violent crimes and 82 property crimes in a recent year (as reported by FBI). This translates to a violent crime rate of 130 per 100,000 individuals and a property crime rate of 882 per 100,000 residents, which are lower than the national averages (as reported by FBI). The overall crime rate in Harahan is approximately 8 per 1,000 residents, positioning it as being near the average for all U.S. cities and towns of all sizes (as reported by NeighborhoodScout).
Violent Crime Statistics
Violent crimes, which include offenses such as murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault, are reported at a lower rate in Harahan compared to national figures. In a recent reporting period, Harahan recorded 12 violent crimes (as reported by FBI). This rate is considerably lower than the national average, contributing to the city’s reputation as a safe place to live.
The chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime in Harahan is approximately 1 in 980 (as reported by NeighborhoodScout). This low incidence rate underscores the effectiveness of local law enforcement and community vigilance in maintaining public safety. Year over year, the violent crime rate in Harahan has seen a decrease of 35% (as reported by AreaVibes).
Property Crime Statistics
Property crimes, such as burglary, larceny-theft, and motor vehicle theft, are also reported at rates below the national average in Harahan. In a given year, the city experienced 82 property crimes (as reported by FBI). While property crime is a concern in many communities, Harahan’s figures suggest a manageable situation.
The property crime rate in Harahan stands at 721 per 100,000 residents, which is 59% lower than the U.S. average (as reported by AreaVibes). Recent data indicates that the property crime rate in Harahan has seen a slight increase of 1% year over year (as reported by AreaVibes).
Housing Costs in Harahan
Harahan’s housing market offers a range of options, with median home prices and rental rates that provide insights into the local affordability. The median listing price for homes in Harahan is currently around $362,000 (as reported by Redfin). This figure indicates a market where purchasing a home is a significant investment, yet potentially more accessible than in some neighboring areas.
For those considering renting, the average rent in Harahan is approximately $1,500 per month (as reported by Zillow). This average encompasses various property types and bedroom configurations. The rental market shows some fluctuation, with a month-over-month change of -5% and a year-over-year change of -4.5% as of March 2026 (as reported by Zillow).
Home Prices and Trends
The median sale price of a home in Harahan was $465,000 in March 2026, showing a substantial increase of 140.3% compared to the previous year (as reported by Redfin). Homes in Harahan tend to stay on the market for a considerable period, with an average of 155 days on the market in March 2026, compared to 32 days the previous year (as reported by Redfin).
Currently, there are approximately 46 homes for sale in Harahan, with a median listing price of $362,000 (as reported by Redfin). The market is described as not very competitive, with multiple offers being rare and homes selling for approximately 5% below list price on average (as reported by Redfin).
Rental Market Insights
The rental market in Harahan presents a median rent of $1,500 per month (as reported by Zillow). This figure reflects the cost for all bedrooms and property types within the city. There are typically around 19 rentals available in Harahan at any given time (as reported by Zillow).
As of April 2026, the median rent for all property types in Harahan was reported as $1,600, which is 18% lower than the national median rent (as reported by Zumper). For context, a one-bedroom apartment averages around $1,040, while a two-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,395 per month (as reported by Zumper).
Job Market and Employment in Harahan
Harahan’s employment landscape is characterized by a diverse range of industries and a stable job market. The city’s proximity to New Orleans means residents have access to a broader spectrum of employment opportunities, while local businesses also contribute significantly to the economy. The unemployment rate in Harahan is generally low, reflecting a healthy job market.
As of the latest available data, the unemployment rate in Harahan is around 2.1% (as reported by DoorProfit). This rate is competitive and suggests that job seekers have a good chance of finding employment within the city or the surrounding metropolitan area. The median household income in Harahan is approximately $79,516 (as reported by World Population Review).
Major Employers and Industries
Several key companies and industries form the backbone of employment in Harahan. Major employers include Ochsner Health System, which is a significant healthcare provider in the region (as reported by Lensa and Indeed). Other prominent companies include The Home Depot, Sodexo, and DXP Enterprises, spanning retail, services, and industrial sectors (as reported by Lensa).
Manufacturing also plays a role in the local economy, with companies like Frito-Lay and Coca-Cola Bottling Company UNITED operating in the area (as reported by Indeed). The transportation and warehousing sector, along with retail trade, are also areas that contribute to job growth in Harahan (as reported by Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Average Salaries and Income
The average salary in Harahan offers a competitive income for its residents. The median wage in Harahan is around $38,100 per year, with the 75th percentile earning approximately $51,700 annually (as reported by ZipRecruiter). These figures provide a general understanding of earning potential within the city.
The per capita income in Harahan is estimated at $57,321 (as reported by World Population Review). This figure, combined with the median household income of $79,516, indicates a community with a solid economic base. Some popular job titles, such as Police Officer and Firefighter, can offer salaries significantly higher than the city’s average (as reported by ZipRecruiter).
Climate and Weather in Harahan
Harahan experiences a humid subtropical climate, characteristic of the Gulf Coast region. This means residents can expect warm, humid summers and mild winters. The area receives a substantial amount of rainfall throughout the year, contributing to its lush environment.
The average annual rainfall in Harahan is approximately 62 inches (as reported by Livability.com). Temperatures in the summer can reach highs in the low 90s Fahrenheit, while winter temperatures are generally mild, with average highs in the low 60s Fahrenheit (as reported by Time and Date and AccuWeather).
Temperature and Rainfall Averages
Harahan’s climate is defined by its warm and humid conditions for much of the year. Average summer high temperatures hover around 92°F, with average lows around 79°F (as reported by Time and Date). During the winter months, average high temperatures are around 62°F, with average lows near 46°F (as reported by Time and Date).
The city receives significant precipitation, with an average of 62 inches of rain annually (as reported by Livability.com). Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, though some months may experience higher totals. Snowfall is rare in this region.
Seasonal Weather Patterns
Harahan experiences distinct seasonal weather patterns. Summers are typically hot and humid, often accompanied by thunderstorms. Fall brings milder temperatures and lower humidity, making it a pleasant time of year.
Winters are generally mild, with occasional cold snaps. Springtime in Harahan is characterized by warming temperatures and increasing humidity. The city’s location near the Gulf of Mexico influences its weather, making it susceptible to tropical systems during hurricane season.
Education and School Ratings
Harahan is served by the Jefferson Parish School District, which provides educational opportunities for the community’s children. The district includes a range of public schools, with Harahan Elementary School being a notable institution within the city itself.
Harahan Elementary School has received an overall Niche grade of B- (as reported by Niche). The school serves students from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade and has a student-teacher ratio of 12 to 1 (as reported by Niche). This indicates a commitment to providing a supportive learning environment for its students.
Harahan Elementary School
Harahan Elementary School is a public school located in Harahan, LA, serving students in grades PK-8. It has an enrollment of 446 students and maintains a student-teacher ratio of 12:1 (as reported by Niche). Academically, the school is rated with a B- grade, with 26% of students proficient in math and 38% in reading (as reported by Niche).
The school is recognized for its diversity, ranking among the most diverse public K-8 schools in Louisiana. It holds the #3 spot out of 136 such schools statewide (as reported by Niche). This focus on diversity contributes to a well-rounded educational experience for its students.
Jefferson Parish School District
The broader Jefferson Parish School District, which serves Harahan, has an overall rating of 3.63 out of 5 (as reported by Niche). The district comprises 75 schools and serves over 50,000 students. The district’s ranking is based on rigorous analysis of key statistics and reviews from students and parents.
Factors considered in the district’s ranking include state test scores, college readiness, graduation rates, and teacher quality. While SAT/ACT scores have been de-emphasized in recent rankings, the district strives to provide a comprehensive educational experience. Niche data indicates that schools in Harahan, on average, meet expectations, with a 37% proficiency rate compared to a projected 36% (as reported by BestNeighborhood.org).
Demographics and Population
Harahan, Louisiana, is a city with a population of approximately 8,904 residents as of recent estimates (as reported by World Population Review). The city has experienced a slight population decline, decreasing by 4.61% since the 2020 census (as reported by World Population Review). The median age in Harahan is 50 years, indicating a population that skews older than the national average (as reported by World Population Review).
The racial composition of Harahan is predominantly White, with approximately 84.13% of the population identifying as such (as reported by World Population Review). Other racial groups include Black or African American, Asian, and smaller percentages of other races and multiracial individuals. The city is home to a diverse population, with 5.66% of residents born outside the country (as reported by Data USA).
Population Breakdown
The 2020 census recorded Harahan’s population at 9,116 (as reported by Wikipedia). Recent estimates suggest a slight decrease, with the population around 8,679 in 2026 (as reported by World Population Review). The median age of 50 years is notably higher than the national median age (as reported by World Population Review).
The age distribution shows a significant portion of the population in older age brackets, with 24.6% of residents being over 65 years of age (as reported by NeighborhoodScout). This demographic trend suggests a community with a stable, established population base.
Racial and Ethnic Composition
Harahan’s population is largely White, constituting about 84.13% of residents (as reported by World Population Review). Hispanic or Latino residents make up approximately 8.29% of the population (as reported by Data USA).
Black or African American residents account for about 3.41% of the population, with Asian residents comprising 2.8% (as reported by World Population Review). The city’s demographics reflect a predominantly non-Hispanic white population, consistent with trends in some suburban areas surrounding New Orleans (as reported by Wikipedia).