Louisiana is a southeastern U.S. state on the Gulf of Mexico, it’s one of the best states to live in the United States, with affordable housing, great public and private schools, and safe cities. Louisiana is one of the happiest states with vibrant culture, lively communities, flavorful and diverse cuisines, and beautiful outdoors.

Here’s our list of the best places to live in Louisiana. 10. Lafayette. (overall) 9. Baton Rouge. (overall, affordable) 8. Shreveport. (overall) 7. New Orleans. (overall, retire) 6. Lake Charles. (affordable) 5. Bossier City. (affordable) 4. Alexandria. (overall) 3. Metairie. (retire) 2. Mandeville. (family) 1. Prairieville. (family)

Famous for lively and colorful Mardi Gras celebrations that are full of soul, jazz music, distinctive foods, and flavors, and for its many festivals all throughout the year, Louisiana is also home to the world’s longest water-spanning bridge and the USA’s tallest state capitol. Unfortunately, the weather in Louisiana is unpredictable, to say the least. Plan to experience all four seasons in just a few days! Residents living in Louisiana enjoy a subtropical climate characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. Temperatures can vary wildly and while one day may be perfect beach weather, the following day could be wet and windy or shiver-inducing cold. Louisiana is filled with some of the most amazing small towns and bigger cities in the country. Located on the Gulf of Mexico, Louisiana provides a variety of outdoor recreation options from beaches and swamps to golf courses, hiking trails, and bike paths. New Orleans, Lafayette, Lake Charles, LaPlace Kenner, and Shreveport are among the best places to live in Louisiana. Top industries in Louisiana include petroleum and natural gas production, tourism, filmmaking, and seafood, especially crawfish. Here’s our list of the best places to live in Louisiana. 10. Lafayette. (overall) 9. Baton Rouge. (overall, affordable) 8. Shreveport. (overall) 7. New Orleans. (overall, retire) 6. Lake Charles. (affordable) 5. Bossier City. (affordable) 4. Alexandria. (overall) 3. Metairie. (retire) 2. Mandeville. (family) 1. Prairieville. (family)