We’re only a full month into this new year and our incredible city has already been chosen as a Top 100 city on TWO U.S. News Top 100 Lists for 2024:
#89 Best Place to Live
#97 Best Place to Retire
This should be zydeco music to your ears, whether you’re already a resident or considering moving here! We have more to offer than just the best smothered pork chops. Our cost of living is lower than the national average.
Discovering Lafayette, LA goes beyond the quest for activities; it’s a journey into a world of culinary delights and rich cultural experiences. With nearly as many restaurants as there are days in the year, residents and visitors alike are captivated by the town’s diverse gastronomic offerings, featuring Cajun and Creole specialties alongside menus rivaling those of larger metropolitan areas.
Downtown Lafayette beckons with attractions like the historical Alexandre Mouton House, Lafayette Science Museum, and the Children’s Museum of Acadiana. Dive into the region’s roots at living history parks Acadian Village and Vermilionville or connect with nature at the Acadiana Park Nature Station.
Throughout the year, the metro area buzzes with events. The Festival International de Louisiane in spring brings a global Francophone flair, while Festivals Acadiens et Creoles celebrates indigenous music and culture. Food enthusiasts can indulge in festivals like the Boudin Cook-Off & Acadiana Bacon Fest and the Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival. Live concerts and educational events like the Dewey Balfa Cajun and Creole Heritage Week add to the vibrant calendar.
Cost of Living: Flavorful and Affordable
Lafayette offers a cost of living below the national average. Savoring delectable Cajun and Creole cuisine doesn’t break the bank, thanks to low-priced plate lunch specials featuring local favorites such as smothered pork chops, chicken over rice, and fried catfish.
Weather: Summers, Gumbo, and Mild Comfort
While summers are long and humid, the rest of the year offers mild and comfortable temperatures. Rain, common in winter, is embraced by locals who turn it into an opportunity to enjoy warm dishes like gumbo. Though miles from the Gulf of Mexico, residents are mindful of heavy rains and storms, making each wet day feel warm and cozy.
Getting Around: Beyond Traffic Woes
Navigating Lafayette involves considerations beyond traffic. Public buses serve central Lafayette, but residents outside the city rely on cars, navigating congested main thoroughfares during rush hour. Biking has gained popularity, particularly in downtown and near the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, with bike lanes enhancing the experience. Lafayette Regional Airport, Amtrak, and Greyhound provide travel options.
Who Calls Lafayette Home?
Lafayette attracts families drawn to its schools and young adults attending the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. With around 17,000 students, including a vibrant international community, the region boasts a youthful atmosphere and a lively nightlife scene. Rooted in French Cajun and Creole heritage, a significant portion of Lafayette residents identify with the Catholic faith.
See full U.S. News article below.
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