Cost of Living in St. Charles Parish, Louisiana
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How St. Charles Parish Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in St. Charles Parish, Louisiana
St. Charles has state's highest incomes
St. Charles Parish residents enjoy a median household income of $82,172—$7,417 above the national average—making housing more affordable despite higher absolute costs. At 16.7%, the rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below state and national affordability thresholds, supported by significantly stronger earning power.
Income advantage drives affordability
St. Charles Parish boasts Louisiana's highest median household income at $82,172, enabling residents to absorb higher housing costs while maintaining a 16.7% rent-to-income ratio below the state average. This income strength explains why St. Charles can support median rents of $1,144—the second-highest surveyed—while remaining relatively affordable.
Premium prices, premium incomes
St. Charles rents and home values rival New Orleans-area parishes like St. Bernard and St. John the Baptist, yet the 16.7% rent-to-income ratio beats both due to substantially higher local incomes. St. Charles residents earn roughly $15,000 more annually than neighbors, enabling them to afford higher housing costs comfortably.
High earners, high costs balanced
St. Charles renters spend 16.7% of income on $1,144 monthly rent, while homeowners with $1,270 mortgages allocate 18.6% of income—an unusual reversal where renting is slightly cheaper. The median home value of $256,800 reflects the parish's affluent character and proximity to industrial corridors that support high local wages.
St. Charles rewards higher earners
If your relocation comes with a strong salary, St. Charles Parish offers the most affluent Louisiana community surveyed, with median incomes and home values reflecting economic strength. The 16.7% rent-to-income ratio suggests housing remains manageable for professionals and established households, despite the parish's premium pricing.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in St. Charles Parish
Rent Burden
16.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,917
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.5%
of gross income
The median home in St. Charles Parish may be a stretch
Median home value is $256,800. Estimated monthly cost: $2,050 vs. your max of $1,917.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.