2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Lake Charles, LA vs Lafayette, LA

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Highlights
Are people in Lafayette older or younger than people in Lake Charles?
- The Median Age in Lafayette is 0.7 years older than in Lake Charles.

Are housing costs cheaper in Lafayette or Lake Charles?
- Lafayette housing costs are 18.0% more expensive than Lake Charles housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Lafayette or Lake Charles?
- The average commute for residents of Lafayette is 4.4 minutes longer than it is for residents of Lake Charles.

Things to do in Lake Charles?
Lake Charles Louisiana makes the perfect spot for anyone looking for water-related activities such as fishing on Lake Charles or sampling some fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants along Lake Street.

Things to do in Lafayette?
Lafayette, Louisiana is a vibrant city located in the heart of Cajun Country. With its rich culture, abundant outdoor recreation areas, and bustling entertainment scene, Lafayette has something for everyone. History buffs will be thrilled to discover the numerous sites around town that commemorate the area's past while foodies get to sample some of the amazing local cuisine. Education is also top-notch here with multiple schools and universities nearby making it an ideal place for students or professionals looking to expand their horizons. Whether you’re looking for a place to call home or simply want to experience all that Lafayette has to offer, this city won't disappoint!

 Lake Charles, LALafayette, LAUnited States
 Population  Unlock122,469329,725,481
 Median Income$49,913  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock36.338.4
 Avg. Home Price$179,400  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.8%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time16.67  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Lake Charles    34 Reviews

Over 2 years ago

I’ve lived in the city for years and it’s great, you should really check it  More

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Over 4 years ago

Lake Charles, Louisiana is one of the absolute creepiest cities in the USA. The people feel dead inside. They also seem to secretly hate each other. It is also an  More

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Beware reader, the city of Lake Charles is an absolute sh*thole. If you are traveling through I-10 you might want to skip this place. This place is the very worst of the  More

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Reviews for Lafayette    37 Reviews

Over 3 years ago

I should add this to my previous review. Lafayette was ranked "Happiest City in the US" by USA Today magazine and "Tastiest Town" by Southern  More

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I’m from Florida but I’ve lived in the Lafayette area for thirty-five years. I’ve never known nicer people. It’s true that non-Cajuns can never integrate entirely with  More

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What are the hottest neighborhoods to buy/live in right now? I'm from out of  More

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