Employment
The combination of higher than average median home income, income per capita and low unemployment rates results in a score that is well above average in the employment category.
Housing
This area has received high scores in the housing category. This could be due to a positive home affordability ratio, high appreciation rates or elevated home values.
Schools
High test scores, elevated graduation rates as well as the conveniently located elementary and high schools in this area have all contributed to the high score in the schools category.
Ratings
Local residents have positive things to say about the proximity of restaurants, grocery stores, parks, public transit, friendliness of neighbors, sense of community and overall safety of the area.
Amenities
A majority of amenities are not ideally situated within a reasonable walking distance, which may lead residents to rely on a vehicle or public transportation.
Commute
Public transportation is not readily available in this area and the average commute time to work could also be longer than the national average.
Crime
This area is reporting high crime rates per 100,000 people and could signify that it is a dangerous place to live. Crime rates include both violent and property crimes.
Central, Louisiana is a mid-sized city with a population of 29,235 residents. At 85%, the majority of the Central population is White; this is followed by 10% Black and 2% Asian. Long, unnecessary commutes can be both frustrating and inconvenient when heading to work. Nationwide, the average one-way commute time takes 26 minutes, but regrettably, residing in Central entails a longer-than-average one-way commute time, averaging 30 minutes.
Are you trying to ascertain if living in Central is the right fit for your lifestyle? To ensure a positive experience before moving to any new city in Louisiana, you will probably want to make sure that you check all of the most important boxes. Several key factors deserve attention. For one, safety is paramount, ensuring that your new area is low in crime is key. Proximity to workplaces or schools minimizes commute times and fosters convenience. Access to essential amenities like parks, grocery stores, food, fitness, shops and healthcare facilities enhances daily life. Efficient public transportation options provide mobility and connectivity. The sense of community creates a welcoming and supportive environment. Lastly, the overall atmosphere, encompassing the vibe, aesthetics, and lifestyle offerings, contributes to a fulfilling living experience. Considering these elements helps identify the ideal neighborhood for your needs and preferences. Using the livability score which includes data from categories like amenities, crime, commute, education, employment, you can easily compare the best places to live in Central and also determine if there are any nearby cities that might be a better match for your lifestyle. You can also compare Central to Louisiana and the national average.
Central, LA receives 71/100 for its livability score; this results in a ranking of #29 in Louisiana and #5,500 in the USA. For each of the livability categories, we can establish that Central ranks very well for cost of living (B+), education (A+), employment (A+) and housing (A+). On a more negative note, Central does not have favorable grades for the following: amenities (F) and crime (D-). If we take a look at the data, we can find out why.
When contemplating a move, job prospects often top the list of priorities. In Central, the outlook for new employment is notably brighter than in many other areas. The low unemployment rate of 1.6% points to a surge in job opportunities, the potential for higher wages, enhanced workforce productivity and increased economic growth. These favorable conditions bode well for individuals seeking career advancement and financial stability, making this area an appealing destination for those prioritizing professional opportunities and economic prosperity.
Parents and families often rely on school test scores when making decisions about local public schools. Test score data serves as a crucial metric for comparing and assessing various educational institutions. In Central, the average school test scores reached an impressive 83%, significantly higher than the national average. This remarkable performance underscores the commitment of the educational system to equip students with the knowledge and resources necessary for success. It allows your children to receive the support and skills that are essential for thriving academically, making Central an excellent choice for families seeking a high-quality education.
For home buyers, real estate will be the largest purchase they will ever make and it will also be their most valuable asset. For renters, the monthly rent paid on their Central apartments will most likely be their largest expense. Based on tangible metrics like home and rental affordability and appreciation rates, housing in this area has received a score that is well above the average of every other US city. A thriving real estate market can also generate strong local economic activity and job creation.
Certain items on your wish list like shopping, restaurants, nightlife, parks and proximity to public transportation are all important things to look for. Having said that, perhaps the most important metric to consider when contemplating a move to Central is real estate affordability. Median real estate prices in Central come in at $240,200, which is 62% higher than the Louisiana average. The home price to income ratio compares the median home prices to the median household income. In Central, the home price to income ratio is 2.7, which is 18.2% lower than the Louisiana average.
| Statistic | Central | Louisiana | National |
| Average one way commute | 30min | 25min | 26min |
| Workers who drive to work | 87.3% | 82.6% | 76.4% |
| Workers who carpool | 7.8% | 9.6% | 9.3% |
| Workers who take public transit | 0.1% | 1.3% | 5.1% |
| Workers who bicycle | 0.0% | 0.5% | 0.6% |
| Workers who walk | 0.9% | 1.8% | 2.8% |
| Working from home | 3.2% | 2.6% | 4.6% |
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