Is New Orleans or Baton Rouge more affordable?
New Orleans has a median rent of $1,150/month, while Baton Rouge is $1,050/month. Baton Rouge is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
New Orleans, LA vs Baton Rouge, LA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between New Orleans and Baton Rouge.
1
New Orleans wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Baton Rouge wins
LA
New Orleans
vs
LA
Baton Rouge
Overview
383,997
Population
227,549
$42,996
Median Income
+14.0%$49,000✓
Cost of Living
$1,150
Median Rent / mo
-8.7%$1,050✓
$215,000✓
Median Home Price
+2.3%$220,000
32%
Rent-to-Income %
26%
Taxes
4.25%
State Income Tax
4.25%
9.45%
Local Tax Rate
9.95%
Climate & Weather
77°F
Avg High Temp
79°F
59°F
Avg Low Temp
58°F
218 days
Sunny Days / Year
219 days✓
64"
Annual Rainfall
60"
Who should choose
New Orleans, LA
New Orleans is a city in Louisiana with a population of 383,997.
Read full New Orleans guide →Who should choose
Baton Rouge, LA
Baton Rouge is a city in Louisiana with a population of 227,549.
Read full Baton Rouge guide →New Orleans vs Baton Rouge — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — New Orleans or Baton Rouge?
Louisiana has a 4.25% state income tax. Louisiana has a 4.25% state income tax. Both have the same state income tax rate.
What is the weather difference between New Orleans and Baton Rouge?
New Orleans gets 218 sunny days/year. Baton Rouge gets 219 sunny days/year. Avg high in New Orleans: 77°F. Avg high in Baton Rouge: 79°F
Which city is better for families — New Orleans or Baton Rouge?
New Orleans. Baton Rouge. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.