Affordable & Income-Based Housing in Lafayette

Affordability in Lafayette, LA

According to Census ACS 5-Year data (as of 2024), the median monthly rent in Lafayette is $1,100 and the median household income is $61,915. Nearly half of residents -- 47% -- are renters, reflecting strong demand for rental housing in the city.

Lafayette has 17 HUD-assisted and income-based properties offering 1,320 subsidized units, which can provide significant savings compared to market-rate rents for eligible households.

Safety

According to FBI Crime Data Explorer, the Lafayette Police Department reported a violent crime rate of 1,078 per 100,000 residents in 2024. Crime rates are not directly comparable across cities due to differences in reporting practices and local definitions.

Getting Around Lafayette

The assisted properties in Lafayette score an average of 72 out of 100 (Very Walkable) according to Walk Score, meaning many everyday errands can be done on foot. The area also earns a Bike Score of 51, indicating some biking infrastructure is available, according to Walk Score.

• Walk Score: 72 - Very Walkable
• Bike Score: 51

These scores reflect the walkability and bikeability of the areas immediately surrounding the assisted properties listed on this page, not the city as a whole.

Schools

Lafayette is served by 31 public schools across 4 districts -- including 15 elementary, 5 middle, and 11 high schools -- according to NCES Common Core of Data. Ratings vary by school and district, so renters should check the assigned schools for a specific address before applying.

Cost of Living in Lafayette, LA

The median household income in Lafayette is $61,915 per year, according to Census ACS 5-Year estimates. The median monthly rent across all rentals in the city is $1,100, also per Census ACS 5-Year data.

Affordable and income-based housing can significantly reduce housing costs for eligible renters. Rents at HUD-assisted and income-restricted properties in Lafayette are typically calculated as a percentage of your household income rather than at market rate.

• Median household income: $61,915/year (Census ACS 5-Year)
• Median market rent: $1,100/month (Census ACS 5-Year)
• Renter households: 47% of occupied housing units (Census ACS 5-Year)
• Income-restricted properties tracked on Lease Lantern: 17 properties, 1,320 total units

Environmental Exposure

All 17 HUD-assisted properties in Lafayette have been mapped for flood risk. Of those, 3 are located in high-risk flood zones -- something worth considering given Louisiana's well-known vulnerability to flooding. If you are looking at a specific property, ask the leasing office whether flood insurance is required or recommended for renters.