Is Shreveport Safe, Pros and cons of living in Shreveport

Shreveport, Louisiana, offers a unique blend of Southern charm and urban amenities, nestled along the banks of the Red River. This vibrant city is a hub for culture, entertainment, and economic activity in Northwest Louisiana. Its strategic location near the borders of Texas and Arkansas makes it a significant regional center. For those considering a move, understanding the city’s various facets, from safety and cost of living to its job market and climate, is essential.

The city presents a diverse landscape, with a rich history influenced by Native American, French, and Spanish cultures. Shreveport has evolved into a dynamic metropolitan area, boasting a growing arts scene, a variety of culinary experiences, and numerous recreational opportunities. Exploring these aspects provides a comprehensive picture for potential residents and visitors alike.

Is it Safe to Live in Shreveport?

Crime Rates

Shreveport faces significant challenges with crime. The city’s overall crime rate is substantially higher than the national average, with violent crimes being a particular concern. According to recent FBI data, Shreveport experiences a crime rate that is approximately 146% higher than the national average. Specifically, violent crimes in Shreveport are reported to be 242% higher than the national average.

The likelihood of becoming a victim of a violent crime in Shreveport is estimated at 1 in 82 residents, a figure that places it among the more dangerous cities in the United States. Property crime rates are also elevated, with a rate of 3990 per 100,000 residents, exceeding the national average by 126.7%. This translates to a 1 in 26 chance of falling victim to property crime. While crime statistics can be daunting, it’s important to note that crime rates can vary significantly by neighborhood within the city.

School Ratings

Educational opportunities in Shreveport are varied, with a mix of public and private institutions. Niche.com provides ratings for schools, with Caddo Parish Magnet High School receiving an A+ rating and being recognized as one of the best public high schools in Louisiana. Other public schools like C.E. Byrd High School and South Highlands Elementary Magnet School also receive strong reviews.

The Caddo Parish Public School District, which serves Shreveport, has an overall Niche grade of B-. While some schools are highly rated, the district’s overall performance reflects a broad spectrum of educational quality across the city. Parents often research specific school district performance and individual school ratings to find the best fit for their children.

Cost of Living

Housing Costs

Shreveport is recognized as an affordable place to live, particularly when it comes to housing expenses. The overall cost of living in Shreveport is approximately 5% lower than the national average. Housing costs in Shreveport are notably lower, with expenses being about 8% less than the national average.

The median home price in Shreveport was around $215,000 as of March 2026. This median sale price is significantly lower than the national average. For renters, the median rent in Shreveport was approximately $1,000 as of April 2026. This median rent is also considerably lower than the national average.

Overall Affordability

Beyond housing, other everyday expenses in Shreveport are also generally lower than the national average. Transportation costs are about 6% less than the national average. Groceries are also more affordable, with prices around 3% lower than the national average.

Utility costs, however, may be slightly higher than the national average, with some sources indicating a 3% increase. Despite this, the overall affordability of Shreveport makes it an attractive option for individuals and families looking to manage their budgets effectively. Healthcare costs in Shreveport are also reported to be lower than the national average.

Job Market and Economy

Major Employers

Shreveport’s economy is supported by a diverse range of major employers across various sectors. Barksdale Air Force Base is a significant employer, providing jobs for over 10,000 people in the region. The healthcare sector is also a major contributor, with Willis-Knighton Health employing over 7,300 individuals and LSU Health Shreveport having a substantial economic impact.

Other key employers include Southwestern Electric Power Company (SWEPCO), which employs over 725 individuals, and the State of Louisiana, which employs more than 2,000 people in various state services. The manufacturing sector is represented by companies like Frymaster, Prolec GE, and SLB, while the Amazon Fulfillment Center also contributes to local employment. Casino and gaming industries, including Live! Casino and Margaritaville, are also significant employers.

Salaries and Unemployment

The average annual salary in Shreveport is approximately $54,776 as of April 2026. However, salaries can vary widely by occupation and experience, with some specialized roles like Transplant Surgeon commanding much higher incomes. The median household income in Shreveport was reported as $48,699 in 2024.

The unemployment rate in the Shreveport-Bossier City area was 4.40% as of the latest reports, which is lower than the long-term average. This rate has seen some fluctuations, with a slight increase compared to the previous month but remaining comparable to the previous year.

Climate

Temperatures

Shreveport experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by long, hot summers and mild winters. The average annual temperature is around 67.5 degrees Fahrenheit. Summer months are consistently warm, with average daytime high temperatures peaking around 96 degrees Fahrenheit in early August. Temperatures can exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit on several days each year.

Winters are generally mild, with average high temperatures in January around 58 degrees Fahrenheit and nighttime lows dipping to 37 degrees Fahrenheit. The cool season lasts for approximately three months, from late November to late February. Spring and fall seasons typically offer pleasant, mild weather conditions.

Rainfall

Shreveport receives abundant rainfall throughout the year, with an average of just over 51 inches annually. The majority of this precipitation occurs in the form of convective showers and thunderstorms, which are frequent during spring and summer months. The wettest months are typically May and June, with average rainfall exceeding 5 inches.

Conversely, August experiences the least amount of rain, with averages below 3 inches. November can also see significant rainfall, averaging around 4.4 inches. While torrential downpours are rare, the city has experienced significant rainfall events in its history.

Demographics

Population and Age

As of 2024, Shreveport had a population of approximately 180,982 people, making it the third most populated city in Louisiana. Projections suggest a slight population decrease in the coming years, with an estimated population of 176,815 in 2026. The median age in Shreveport is 37.9 years, which is slightly younger than the national median.

The population is composed of slightly more females than males, with a gender ratio of approximately 89.9 males per 100 females. The age distribution shows a significant portion of the population in the working-age brackets, with 42.89% aged 30 to 64.

Race and Ethnicity

Shreveport is a diverse city, with the largest racial/ethnic group being Black or African American, comprising about 55.9% of the population. White residents make up approximately 34.9% of the population, followed by Hispanic residents at 4.1%. Other racial groups are present in smaller percentages.

Despite its diversity, a notable portion of Shreveport’s population lives below the poverty line. In 2024, 18.8% of Shreveport families were reported to be living in poverty. This figure rises to 23.54% when considering households.