Moving to
Monroe
Northeast Louisiana's twin cities, birthplace of Delta Air Lines, home to ULM, and one of the most affordable housing markets in the state. Here's your complete guide to Monroe.
At A Glance
Monroe
By The Numbers
The numbers that matter most when you're evaluating a move to Monroe.
Why Monroe
Why People Move to Monroe
Affordable living, a university town feel, and a strategic location in northeast Louisiana.
Ultra-Affordable Housing
Median home price of $199K is about 19% below the national average. Rent is 25% below national averages, making Monroe one of the most affordable cities in the state.
University Town
University of Louisiana at Monroe brings academic culture, athletics (Warhawks), and a youthful energy. The campus and surrounding area are focal points of community life.
Healthcare Hub
Healthcare and social assistance is the largest employment sector with over 4,300 jobs. St. Francis Medical Center and Glenwood Regional are major employers.
Ouachita River Living
The Ouachita River runs through the twin cities, offering riverfront parks, kayaking, fishing, and scenic beauty. Poverty Point World Heritage Site is nearby.
Tech Heritage
CenturyLink (now Lumen Technologies) was founded and headquartered here. Monroe has a legacy of telecommunications innovation and continues to attract tech-adjacent businesses.
Low Cost of Everything
Cost of living index of 86 (14% below national average). Groceries, utilities, transportation, and healthcare are all cheaper than most of the country.
Cost Of Living
Monroe Cost of Living Breakdown
How Monroe compares to the Louisiana average and national average.
| Category | Monroe | Louisiana Avg | National Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (Median) | $199,000 | $253,100 | $368,581 |
| Rent (1BR) | $700/mo | $906/mo | $1,200/mo |
| Groceries | 94 index | 96 index | 100 index |
| Utilities | 79 index | 82 index | 100 index |
| Property Tax | 0.53% | 0.53% | 1.1% |
| Healthcare | 90 index | 95 index | 100 index |
Local averages. Your own numbers move with the property, the parish and the insurance quote.
The Line That Is Not On This Table
Homeowners insurance. In Louisiana it is the expensive part of the payment, not the taxes, and it goes straight into your escrow, which means it goes straight into what you qualify for. I quote it before we set your budget instead of after.
Neighborhoods
Notable Neighborhoods & Areas
Monroe and West Monroe offer distinct living options across the Ouachita River.
South Monroe / ULM Area
Close to the university with a mix of student housing, starter homes, and established neighborhoods. Affordable with homes from $80K, $200K. Walkable to campus amenities.
Garden District
Monroe's historic neighborhood with beautiful early 20th-century homes, tree-lined streets, and character. Homes from $120K, $300K depending on condition and size.
West Monroe
Across the Ouachita River with a small-town feel, good schools, and the Antique Alley shopping district. Made famous by Duck Dynasty. Homes from $130K, $300K.
Sterlington
Small town north of Monroe with newer construction, family-friendly atmosphere, and growing amenities. Homes from $180K, $350K. Popular with families seeking newer homes.
Bayou DeSiard Area
More affluent area with larger lots, established homes, and proximity to Bayou DeSiard for outdoor recreation. Homes from $200K, $450K.
Forsythe Park Area
Central location with a mix of housing styles near parks and community amenities. Mid-range pricing from $100K, $250K.
Schools
Schools & Education
Monroe and Ouachita Parish offer public and private school options, plus a university campus.
Monroe City Schools
Monroe City Schools serves the city proper with multiple elementary, middle, and high schools. Performance varies by school, and several magnet programs are available for higher-achieving students.
Ouachita Parish Schools
Ouachita Parish School System covers the surrounding area and includes West Monroe and Sterlington. Generally rated higher than Monroe City Schools, the parish district is a top reason families choose West Monroe or Sterlington.
Higher Education
- University of Louisiana at Monroe, regional university with strong pharmacy, nursing, and business programs
- Louisiana Delta Community College, workforce and transfer programs
Jobs And Economy
Jobs & Economy
Healthcare, retail, education, and a legacy of telecommunications drive the Monroe economy.
Top Employers
- St. Francis Medical Center, major regional hospital and healthcare employer
- Glenwood Regional Medical Center, another key healthcare provider
- University of Louisiana at Monroe, university and employer
- Lumen Technologies (formerly CenturyLink), founded in Monroe, still maintains operations
- Monroe City Schools & Ouachita Parish Schools, combined major public employers
- City of Monroe, municipal government
Key Industries
- Healthcare & Social Assistance, 4,300+ jobs, the largest sector
- Retail Trade, 2,225+ jobs serving the regional shopping center role
- Education, ULM, school systems, and training programs
- Accommodation & Food Services, 2,100+ jobs in the twin cities
Buying Here
Buying a Home in Monroe
Monroe is one of the most accessible housing markets in Louisiana. Here's what to know.
Market Overview
With a median home price of $199K, Monroe is very accessible for first-time buyers. USDA eligibility is widespread in the surrounding area, making zero-down financing a realistic option for many buyers. The market moves slower than larger cities, giving buyers time to find the right home.
FHA Loan
Low down payment and flexible credit. The loan most first-time buyers here actually use.
FHA LoanUSDA Loan
$0 down on an eligible address. Eligibility runs off the address, not the city name.
USDA LoanConventional Loan
From 3% down with mortgage insurance that comes off at 20% equity instead of riding the loan.
Conventional LoanFirst-Time Buyers
Louisiana assistance programs compared, and a straight answer on whether now is your time.
First-Time BuyersMonroe Mortgage Broker
Every program we run in Monroe, priced side by side on your real numbers.
Monroe Mortgage BrokerHonest Assessment
Pros & Cons of Moving to Monroe
Every place has tradeoffs. Anybody telling you Monroe has none is selling you something. Here is the list I would give a friend.
What You Get
- Very affordable housing, median $199K
- Cost of living 14% below national average
- c17b6; University town amenities via ULM
- Ouachita River recreation and natural beauty
- Widespread USDA eligibility for zero-down financing
- ᚹae; Strong healthcare employment sector
What You Sign Up For
- Population declining (-3% since 2020)
- Median household income 42% below national average
- Higher crime rates in some areas
- ᚹae; Fewer job options than larger Louisiana cities
- Car-dependent with no public transit
- Hot, humid summers
Monroe FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Still Deciding?
Get A Straight Answer On Your Own Numbers
A soft credit check tells you where you stand. Nothing hits your report until you decide to move forward.
Compare Markets
Other Louisiana Cities
Worth Looking At
Prices, insurance and school districts change inside an hour's drive. If Monroe is not quite it, start here. The statewide relocation guide covers all 32.
Real Closings
Real Clients.
Real Closings.
Real families we have helped get from pre-approval to keys in hand.
Find Out What A Monroe Payment
Actually Looks Like
Tell me roughly what you want to spend and I will come back with the real number, insurance and parish taxes included, and tell you straight whether the timing is right. Free quote, no credit pull to start.
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