There is a state that just might be the best combination of weather, cost of living and… FOOD that you’ve probably never really considered. The fact is most American’s can’t name one city outside the most famous city in this state. Louisiana really should be on you best state to retire to list if you’re making a list (like we did). Unfortunately, there isn’t a ton written about he best cities to retire to in Louisiana outside of New Orleans or Baton Rouge. Let’s fix that today and introduce you to 5 of the best cities to retire to in Louisiana.
Abbeville
AbbevilleIt’s hard to review Louisiana cities without remembering another amazing state to retire to, South Carolina. When we think of South Carolina, it’s Live Oaks, Spanish Moss and a place where gators and pelicans are both found in your backyard. Abbeville is like a more affordable version of some cities in South Carolina. Don’t let that description fool you, Abbeville is full of culture and almost famous food options. Louisiana cousine is world renown and the locals in Abbeville take it seriously. It’s also home to some great healthcare facilities such as Mercy Regional Medical Center and Southwest Louisiana Veterans Home. In addition, Abbeville residents are eligible for Medicare and Medicare Supplement Insurance plans.
Shopping, restaurants and other entertainment areas can be found throughout town and outside its city limits there are several recreational areas to explore such as Coteau des Prairies National Wildlife Refuge or Lake Fausse Pointe State Park. For those who prefer cultural activities, there are multiple theaters performing plays and musicals throughout the year as well as monthly art walks around downtown Abbeville during select weekends in summer months.
Bossier City
Bossier City is a sister city to Shreeveport. Once known for riverboat casinos, the Shreveport-Bossier area has fully developed into two distinct locations, with the Bossier City becoming a place that retirees could easily consider. Bossier City is such a retirement haven that it features no less than 3 adult-restricted communities aimed at enticing retirees to choose them.
Bossier City is a growing city with all the amenities you’d expect of a big city, and you can go into downtown Shreveport in less than a few minutes. However, you’ll likely want to drive back to the decided safer districts of Bossier City after you’ve made your little trip.
Lafayette
Lafayette, might be the 3rd most popular city in Louisiana. For retirees needing health care, there are numerous hospital options including; Our Lady of Lourdes Regional Medical Center, University Hospital & Clinics and Women’s & Children’s Hospital–all with high ratings for quality care. Young at Heart Senior Services also provides free healthcare monitoring for retirees in need.
Retirees in Lafayette will also find plenty to keep them busy with events such as 3rd Friday Live After Five with live music performances every month or they can enjoy local attractions such as Vermilionville Living History Museum & Folklife Park or Acadiana Symphony Orchestra & Conservatory of Music offering over 50 events each year. There is also golfing at Oakbourne Country Club plus shopping and dining galore at The Grand Point Shopping Center & Village Town Center Mall where seniors can take advantage of discounts days throughout the week.
Lake Charles
Lake Charles is located in the southwestern corner of the state among the breathtakingly beautiful Live Oaks and Cypress Trees. This city’s location near rivers, lakes, creeks and bayous gives Lake Charles access to some beautiful waterways where you can enjoy paddle boating and swimming in its many recreational spaces. It is also home to over 25 parks including Helene Gottschalk Community Park where you can hike through lush nature trails along with picnic shelters, playgrounds and plenty of beauty spots. In addition to all that nature offers there are many great restaurants, bars and attractions nearby ready to explore
The cost of living in Lake Charles is quite low compared to other larger cities which allows retirees who move there more money to enjoy their leisurely pursuits without breaking the bank. At the same time health care facilities like Christus St. Patrick Hospital provide great care while allowing patients flexibility with insurance plans.
Lake Charles also offers plenty of things for seniors who look forward to retirement days filled with exciting entertainment such as golf courses like Mallard Cove Golf Course or hiking trails like Sam Houston Jones State Park that runs for 1,084 acres next door on Newberry Creek all free from snow in winters as compared with other places up North!
Covington
Covington, Louisiana is a great destination for those intent on retiring due to the number of retirement communities available to retirees in the city. With its northern Louisiana location just outside of New Orleans, Covington has all the perks of small-town living in an exciting atmosphere. Ever wanted that perfect suburb that has everything that you need in a city but none of the fluff like gaming centers, or theme parks? Covington is that city. You can drive to New Orleans any day you want, but Covington is that nice small suburban town where you can choose to live. If you want to be near New Orleans, this is the city for you.
With its wonderful semi-tropical climate and easy access to vibrant New Orleans culture and entertainment, Covington makes an excellent retirement destination in Louisiana for those seeking north Louisiana’s coastal charm elsewhere in this beautiful state!
