Louisiana, known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes, offers a variety of government resources to its residents. This guide provides an overview of state-specific statistics, local resources, laws, demographics, and geographic context, with comparisons to national averages where relevant.
State-Specific Statistics and Data
- Population: As of July 1, 2024, Louisiana’s estimated population is 4,597,740, reflecting a slight decrease of 1.3% since the 2020 Census. (census.gov)
- Labor Force: In August 2025, Louisiana’s civilian labor force was approximately 2.075 million, with an unemployment rate of 4.4%. (bls.gov)
- Median Rent: The median rent in Louisiana is $1,038 per month, compared to the national median of $1,348. (splcenter.org)
- Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections: Oversees state prisons and correctional facilities. (en.wikipedia.org)
- Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries: Manages state wildlife and fishery areas. (en.wikipedia.org)
- Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality: Monitors and protects the state’s environment. (en.wikipedia.org)
- Louisiana Public Service Commission: Regulates public utilities and motor carriers. (en.wikipedia.org)
- Louisiana Department of Health: Offers public health services and information. (ldh.la.gov)
- Regulatory Environment: Between 1997 and 2015, Louisiana’s regulatory burden increased by 101%, associated with higher poverty rates and income inequality. (mercatus.org)
- Housing Assistance: In 2024, Louisiana administered over 50,000 housing choice vouchers, totaling $265 million, to support affordable housing. (splcenter.org)
- Racial Composition: The state’s population is 62.6% White, 32.6% Black or African American, and 6.95% Hispanic or Latino. (census.gov)
- Median Age: Louisiana’s median age is 37.8 years, slightly younger than the national average of 38.9 years. (theglobalstatistics.com)
- Poverty Rate: Louisiana’s poverty rate is 18.9%, ranking as the second-poorest state in America. (theglobalstatistics.com)
- Median Rent: At $1,038 per month, Louisiana’s median rent is lower than the national median of $1,348. (splcenter.org)
Local Resources, Offices, and Contacts
Louisiana provides various state agencies and local offices to assist residents:
Louisiana State Laws, Regulations, and Policies
Demographics and Population Data
Geographic and Regional Context
Louisiana is located in the southern region of the United States, bordered by Texas to the west, Arkansas to the north, Mississippi to the east, and the Gulf of Mexico to the south. The state’s diverse geography includes coastal wetlands, the Mississippi River, and the Appalachian Mountains in the north.
Comparisons with National Averages
Understanding these aspects of Louisiana’s government resources, demographics, and geographic context can help residents and visitors navigate the state’s offerings more effectively.