Baton Rouge is a place that divides opinions. Depending on who you ask, living in baton rouge is either paradise on earth or terrifying.
So, what is life in baton rouge really like? This article will address that. Plus, we’ll take a look at the pros and cons of living in Baton Rouge.
Summary of the Pros and Cons of Living in Baton Rouge
| Pros of Living in Baton Rouge | Cons of Living in Baton Rouge |
| Cultural heritage | Traffic Jams |
| Diverse economy | Poor public facilities |
| Affordable housing | Unbalanced weather |
| Access to Schools | Non-existent nightlife |
| Cost of Living | High crime rate |
| Great if you love sports | Absence of outdoor activities |
What’s It Like Living in Baton Rouge?
Baton Rouge is the largest city in Louisiana. Life in Baton rouge is generally interesting and laid back. Baton Rouge is known for its rich culture and amazing food.
However, it is generally accepted that the quality of life could be better for a few reasons. Known as the red stick city by french explorers, it is home to the state’s capitol.
Baton Rouge is growing quickly and has some really beautiful scenery. However, before living in Baton Rouge, it’s important to know more about its pros and cons.
What are The Benefits of Living in Baton Rouge?
1. Come For the Culture
If there’s one thing you’ll enjoy, it’s the culture. Baton Rouge has an aura that screams culture. This is backed by real cultural heritage.
Take a stroll around town and you’ll see a lot of cultural sites. This includes Louisiana’s old state capitol and the old governor’s mansion.
If you’re a sucker for culture, this is one place you just have to visit.
2. Amazing Food
Baton Rouge is famous for its excellent dishes. Oysters, crawfish, and Gumbo are just some things you have to try out in Baton Rouge.
Of course, if you decide to live there, you’ll have all the time in the world to do this. If you need a reason to even visit Baton Rouge, it has to be the food.
3. Great if You Love Sports
If you’re big on football, then you might love Baton Rouge. It’s home to the LSU. When there’s a game, the whole town shows up. Sports is taken very seriously in Baton Rouge.
You’ll fit it perfectly as long as you support their darling team.
4. Cost of Living
According to Payscale, the cost of living is 4% lower than the national average. Utilities and housing are also lower. This means that things are generally cheaper in Baton Rouge. People get to save more and enjoy a higher quality of life.
If this appeals to you, you should consider living in Baton Rouge.
5. Affordable Housing
According to Redfin, the current median housing price is around $235,000. This is less than the national average ($374,000).
If you plan to raise your children here, buying an affordable home is a top priority. Fortunately, Baton Rouge comes good in this situation.
6. Availability of School
The availability of schools in a town is a big determinant when moving. Fortunately, there are a fair number of schools in Baton Rouge.
According to the advocate, 4 out of 10 public school districts are in Baton Rouge. While some schools in this town might have questionable standards, you will find one that meets your preference.
7. Diverse Economy
Baton Rouge has a diverse economy. The logistics industry is one of the most developed industries in the area. Other industries that provide white and blue-collar jobs include
- Transportation industry
- Manufacturing industry
- Oil and gas industry
- Agricultural industry
Tech and electronic companies are also growing in the regions. Companies like IBM have been fully established.
What are the Downsides of Living in Baton Rouge?
1. Traffic
Traffic jams are normal in Baton Rouge. If there’s a major sporting event, it gets even worse. This is further aggravated by the inefficient public transport system in Baton Rouge.
If you’re planning on living in Baton Rouge, you should get a car.
2. High Crime Rate
Crime rate in Baton Rouge is ridiculously high. According to the Neighborhood Scout, Baton Rouge is only safer than 2% of cities in America.
While this is true, there are several neighborhoods that are safer. This includes
- LSU East
- Kleinpeter
- South Baton Rouge
- White Oak Landing
- North Sherwood Forest
3. Unbalanced Weather
The weather in Baton Rouge is unbalanced and can be very oppressive. Summers are usually very hot and prolonged. Winter is shorter but colder.
If you want to live in this city, you have to be mentally prepared for the weather problems.
4. Absence of Outdoor Activities
While this city is known for its sporting activities, other types of outdoor hobbies are lacking. There’s hardly any avenue to hike for example.
If you live for outdoor activities, this is bad news for you.
5. Poor Public Facilities
Finally, another sticking point is the poor public facilities. Chief among them is the public transportation system. This makes commuting extremely difficult.
You have to be ready to have your own system in place. Baton Rouge can be extremely frustrating.
6. Non-Existent NightLife
The nightlife is very poor. While there are some bars in the city, most of them close very early. There is also little or no activity at night.
If you live for the nightlife, you might find it hard to like Baton Rouge.
Is Baton Rouge a Good Place to Live?
Living in Baton Rouge depends on your preferences. If you don’t mind the issues that it comes with, you’ll love the city.
Plus, the culture and food are things worth looking forward to. Baton Rouge can be your own paradise.
Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Baton Rouge
What is the Best Area to Live in Baton Rouge?
Highland lakes and South Baton Rouge are the two best areas to live in. They both have very low crime rates and affordable housing.
What are the Demographics of Baton Rouge?
Baton Rouge is made of 38% white, 54% black, and 3-4% Asian. Other races make up the rest of the population.
Does it Get Cold in Baton Rouge?
While winter can get brutal, summers in Baton Rouge are usually very long and hot. I reckon you should be more afraid of summer.
