Buying real estate in Baton Rouge is a great decision; the town offers some of the best features and amenities of any city in Louisiana. It has a population of about 220,000 people and it is located about 80 miles northwest of New Orleans. It is also the capital of state and home to all the state government buildings as well as the state's largest university, LSU. Buying into the real estate market in this city allows you a chance at life in fast-paced, historic southern city. A realtor could help you find a good estate in the city.

The Neighbors

Because Baton Rouge is the capital city, it is full of young, single professionals. The town's median age is only about 30 years old and only 36 percent of the total population are married. The inhabitants are also fairly well educated with about half having completed some college. However the city gained more children and senior citizens after the nearby 2005 Hurricane Katrina disaster, as people fled the New Orleans area. It has a very healthy mix of diversity compared with the state averages and showcases a variety of cultures.

Only 7.4 percent of the city's residents commute more than 45 minutes to other places for work, and most commuters only drive about 20 minutes to their jobs.

The Highlights

-Baton Rouge is a very temperate city, with weather temperatures ranging from 40 degrees in the winter to about 90 degrees in the summer.

-Homeowners can enjoy nearby sporting events hosted by the local college and professional teams. The LSU Tigers offer a wide variety of sports, and the city is close to the New Orleans Saints (pro football) and the Hornets (pro basketball).

-Baton Rouge has a great zoo with 1800 animals from all around the world.

-The city has plenty of arts and museums. Some of the more well known venues are the Shaw Center for the Arts, the Louisiana Arts and Science Museum, and the Old State Capitol Center for Political and Governmental History.

-Baton Rouge is home to a full-scale amusement park and a water park.

The Real Estate

Real estate in Baton Rouge is a great bargain. The median family income is higher than the state average and home prices are slightly higher too, but they are still extremely affordable compared with the national median home prices. Before Hurricane Katrina, home prices were appreciating at a much higher rate than the national average, and home prices will probably see nice appreciation again in the future after all affects of the Hurricane have all been dealt with. Realtors in the city can help you find a home that is perfect for your needs, whether it be a condo, townhouse, or an existing or brand-new home.

Baton Rouge is a wonderful city with lots of choices available real estate. It has a long, rich history and plenty of arts, sports, and culture. Your realtor can help you spell out your needs and wish list and help you locate the right home in the city for you!