Louisiana, in the southern U.S., is known as the “Pelican State,” symbolized by the brown pelican found in the region. It has a population of 4.6 million. Baton Rouge serves as the capital, while New Orleans, the largest city, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, including jazz music and Creole cuisine.
10 Largest Cities in Louisiana
1. New Orleans (Louisiana)
City Facts
- Parish: Orleans Parish
- Area: 349.85 square miles
- Population: 377,000 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 504
- Zip Codes: 70112-70131
- Latitude: 29.951065
- Longitude: -90.071533
Location and History:
New Orleans is located in southeastern Louisiana, along the Mississippi River near the Gulf of Mexico. It was founded in 1718 by French colonists and named after Philippe II, Duke of Orléans. The city became an important port, serving as a hub for the slave trade, agriculture, and commerce in the early 19th century. New Orleans was also part of the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. The city’s culture is a blend of French, African, Spanish, and Creole influences, which is reflected in its vibrant music, food, and festivals, particularly Mardi Gras. Despite significant damage from Hurricane Katrina in 2005, New Orleans has rebuilt itself as a cultural and economic center of the South.
Major Landmarks:
- French Quarter: The historic heart of New Orleans, known for its vibrant nightlife, architecture, and Bourbon Street.
- Jackson Square: A central square featuring St. Louis Cathedral and street performers, located near the Mississippi River.
- The National WWII Museum: A major museum dedicated to World War II history, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city.
- Audubon Zoo and Aquarium: A popular family destination with exhibits showcasing local wildlife and marine life.
Major Highways:
New Orleans is connected by Interstate 10, which runs east-west through the city, linking it to Baton Rouge and the Gulf Coast. Interstate 610 serves as a bypass route, while Interstate 510 provides access to eastern parts of the city. U.S. Route 90 runs through the city, offering a coastal route to other southern states. These highways support New Orleans’ role as a major port city and its connection to the broader Gulf South region.
2. Baton Rouge (Louisiana)
City Facts
- Parish: East Baton Rouge Parish
- Area: 88.65 square miles
- Population: 228,000 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 225
- Zip Codes: 70801-70898
- Latitude: 30.451468
- Longitude: -91.187147
Location and History:
Baton Rouge, the capital of Louisiana, is located along the eastern bank of the Mississippi River. It was founded in 1699 by French explorer Pierre Le Moyne d’Iberville, who named it after a “red stick” used by Native Americans to mark tribal boundaries. Baton Rouge became a significant center for industry, particularly in petrochemicals, due to its location along the Mississippi River and proximity to Gulf Coast oil fields. As the state capital, it is also a major center for government and education, home to Louisiana State University (LSU). Baton Rouge has played a significant role in the civil rights movement and continues to grow as a cultural and economic hub.
Major Landmarks:
- Louisiana State Capitol: The tallest state capitol building in the U.S., with an observation deck offering views of the city and river.
- Old State Capitol: A Gothic Revival-style building that served as the state’s capital from 1847 to 1932, now a museum.
- Louisiana State University (LSU): The flagship university of the state, known for its historic campus and athletic programs.
- USS Kidd Veterans Museum: A naval destroyer turned museum located on the Mississippi River, commemorating U.S. naval history.
Major Highways:
Baton Rouge is connected by Interstate 10, which runs east-west through the city, linking it to New Orleans and Houston. Interstate 12 bypasses Baton Rouge to the north, connecting to Hammond and the Northshore. Interstate 110 provides direct access to downtown Baton Rouge. U.S. Route 61 and U.S. Route 190 are additional major routes providing regional access. These highways support Baton Rouge’s role as the capital and a transportation hub in southern Louisiana.
3. Shreveport (Louisiana)
City Facts
- Parish: Caddo Parish
- Area: 123.79 square miles
- Population: 182,000 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 318
- Zip Codes: 71101-71166
- Latitude: 32.525151
- Longitude: -93.750179
Location and History:
Shreveport is located in the northwestern corner of Louisiana, near the Red River. Founded in 1836 by the Shreve Town Company, it quickly became an important river port and transportation hub. Its location at the meeting point of the Red River and the Texas Trail contributed to its growth, particularly during the oil boom of the early 20th century. Shreveport served as the temporary capital of Louisiana during the Civil War. Today, the city has a diverse economy based on oil, manufacturing, gaming, and healthcare. It is also known for its cultural contributions, particularly in music and film.
Major Landmarks:
- Louisiana State Exhibit Museum: A museum showcasing exhibits on Louisiana’s natural history, culture, and industry.
- Shreveport Municipal Auditorium: A historic venue known for hosting the Louisiana Hayride, where artists like Elvis Presley performed early in their careers.
- R.W. Norton Art Gallery: Featuring American and European art, along with beautifully landscaped gardens.
- Sci-Port Discovery Center: A hands-on science museum with interactive exhibits and an IMAX theater, popular for educational visits.
Major Highways:
Shreveport is connected by Interstate 20, which runs east-west through the city, providing a direct route to Dallas and Jackson. Interstate 49 runs north-south, linking Shreveport to Lafayette and Arkansas. Interstate 220 forms a loop around the northern part of the city, offering bypass routes. U.S. Route 71 and U.S. Route 80 provide additional regional access. These highways are vital for Shreveport’s role as a transportation and commercial hub in northwestern Louisiana.
4. Lafayette (Louisiana)
City Facts
- Parish: Lafayette Parish
- Area: 56.47 square miles
- Population: 125,813 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 337
- Zip Codes: 70501-70598
- Latitude: 30.224089
- Longitude: -92.019842
Location and History:
Lafayette is located in south-central Louisiana, in the heart of Cajun Country. It was founded in 1821 as Vermilionville and renamed Lafayette in 1884 to honor the French General Marquis de Lafayette. The city became a major center for French Acadian (Cajun) culture following the exile of the Acadians from Canada in the 18th century. The development of the oil industry in the 20th century brought significant growth to the area, with Lafayette becoming a hub for petroleum services. Today, the city is known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant music scene, and strong economy based on oil, education, and healthcare.
Major Landmarks:
- Vermilionville Historic Village: A living history museum that showcases Cajun and Creole culture through restored buildings, exhibits, and events.
- Acadian Cultural Center: Part of the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park, this museum tells the story of the Acadians and their migration to Louisiana.
- Cajundome: A multipurpose arena hosting concerts, sporting events, and home games for the University of Louisiana at Lafayette Ragin’ Cajuns.
- St. John’s Cathedral: A historic Catholic church known for its beautiful architecture and the nearby 500-year-old oak tree.
Major Highways:
Lafayette is served by Interstate 10, which runs east-west and connects the city to Baton Rouge and Houston. Interstate 49 runs north-south through Lafayette, linking it to Alexandria and New Orleans. U.S. Route 90 provides access to the Gulf Coast, while Louisiana Highway 167 connects Lafayette to nearby towns. These highways are crucial for the city’s role as a regional economic and cultural center in Acadiana.
5. Lake Charles (Louisiana)
City Facts
- Parish: Calcasieu Parish
- Area: 44.8 square miles
- Population: 84,872 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 337
- Zip Codes: 70601-70629
- Latitude: 30.226595
- Longitude: -93.217376
Location and History:
Lake Charles is located in southwestern Louisiana along the Calcasieu River, near the Texas border. The city was founded in 1861 and quickly developed as a hub for lumber, cotton, and shipping. The discovery of oil in the early 20th century further fueled the city’s growth, and Lake Charles became a center for the petrochemical industry. The city has a unique blend of Cajun, Creole, and Texas influences, reflected in its culture and food. Today, Lake Charles is known for its thriving petrochemical industry, gaming casinos, and outdoor recreational opportunities along its lakes and rivers.
Major Landmarks:
- L’Auberge Casino Resort: A large resort and casino offering gaming, dining, and entertainment, one of several casinos in the city.
- Creole Nature Trail: A scenic drive through southwestern Louisiana’s wetlands and along the Gulf Coast, offering views of wildlife and natural beauty.
- Imperial Calcasieu Museum: A local museum featuring exhibits on the history and culture of southwestern Louisiana, with art galleries and educational programs.
- Lake Charles Civic Center: A venue for concerts, conventions, and festivals, located along the lakefront.
Major Highways:
Lake Charles is intersected by Interstate 10, which runs east-west through the city, connecting it to Houston and New Orleans. Interstate 210 forms a loop around the southern part of the city, providing a bypass route. U.S. Route 90 and U.S. Route 171 also serve Lake Charles, offering additional regional access. These highways are essential for Lake Charles’ role as a transportation hub for the petrochemical industry and for tourism in southwestern Louisiana.
6. Bossier City (Louisiana)
City Facts
- Parish: Bossier Parish
- Area: 43.19 square miles
- Population: 69,782 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 318
- Zip Codes: 71111-71113, 71171-71172
- Latitude: 32.515985
- Longitude: -93.732122
Location and History:
Bossier City is located on the eastern bank of the Red River, directly across from Shreveport. It was founded in the 1830s as a small settlement but did not see significant growth until the early 20th century. The discovery of oil in the region and the establishment of Barksdale Air Force Base in the 1930s transformed Bossier City into a major industrial and military center. Today, the city’s economy is based on gaming, tourism, and the military, with several casinos and Barksdale AFB playing key roles. Bossier City is also known for its close ties to Shreveport, with the two cities often referred to as the “Shreveport-Bossier” area.
Major Landmarks:
- Barksdale Air Force Base: One of the largest Air Force bases in the U.S., home to the 2nd Bomb Wing and a key component of the nation’s defense.
- Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets: A popular shopping and entertainment complex along the Red River, featuring retail stores, restaurants, and a movie theater.
- Margaritaville Resort Casino: A major casino and resort offering gaming, dining, and live entertainment.
- Boomtown Casino: Another popular gaming destination in the city, contributing to Bossier’s vibrant casino industry.
Major Highways:
Bossier City is connected by Interstate 20, which runs east-west through the city, linking it to Shreveport and Monroe. Interstate 220 forms a loop around the northern part of the city, providing a bypass route. U.S. Route 71 and U.S. Route 80 also run through the city, providing local access and connections to other parts of northern Louisiana. These highways are vital for Bossier City’s economy and its role as a gateway to the broader Ark-La-Tex region.
7. Kenner (Louisiana)
City Facts
- Parish: Jefferson Parish
- Area: 15.2 square miles
- Population: 65,213 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 504
- Zip Codes: 70062-70065
- Latitude: 29.994092
- Longitude: -90.241743
Location and History:
Kenner is located in southeastern Louisiana, just west of New Orleans, along the Mississippi River. It was originally settled in the early 19th century as a plantation community, but it grew significantly in the 20th century as New Orleans expanded westward. Kenner became a suburban city and is now known for its proximity to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. The city’s economy is centered on transportation, retail, and services, making it an important part of the greater New Orleans metropolitan area.
Major Landmarks:
- Rivertown: A historic district along the Mississippi River featuring museums, shops, and theaters that showcase Kenner’s heritage.
- Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport: The main airport serving the New Orleans region, located in Kenner.
- Pontchartrain Center: A multipurpose arena and convention center hosting trade shows, concerts, and events.
- Kenner City Park: A community park with walking trails, playgrounds, and sports facilities, popular with local residents.
Major Highways:
Kenner is connected by Interstate 10, which runs east-west through the city, linking it to New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Interstate 310 connects Kenner to the southern parts of Jefferson Parish and provides access to the Mississippi River Bridge. U.S. Route 61 (Airline Highway) runs parallel to I-10, providing additional access to local areas. These highways are essential for Kenner’s transportation and its role as a gateway to New Orleans.
8. Monroe (Louisiana)
City Facts
- Parish: Ouachita Parish
- Area: 31.5 square miles
- Population: 47,702 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 318
- Zip Codes: 71201-71212
- Latitude: 32.509310
- Longitude: -92.119301
Location and History:
Monroe is located in northeastern Louisiana along the Ouachita River. It was founded in 1819 as Fort Miro and renamed Monroe after the arrival of the steamboat James Monroe, which marked a turning point in the city’s development as a river port. The construction of the railroad in the late 19th century further enhanced Monroe’s role as a transportation hub. Today, Monroe’s economy is based on healthcare, education, and telecommunications, with the city serving as a regional center for northeastern Louisiana.
Major Landmarks:
- Biedenharn Museum & Gardens: The former home of Joseph A. Biedenharn, the first bottler of Coca-Cola, now a museum with beautiful gardens.
- Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo: A zoo and botanical garden featuring animals from around the world, with train rides and educational programs.
- Chennault Aviation and Military Museum: A museum dedicated to General Claire Chennault and the history of military aviation.
- Downtown RiverMarket: A vibrant market and event space along the Ouachita River, offering shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Major Highways:
Monroe is served by Interstate 20, which runs east-west through the city, connecting it to Shreveport and Vicksburg, Mississippi. U.S. Route 165 and U.S. Route 80 provide additional regional access, linking Monroe to Alexandria and other parts of northern Louisiana. Louisiana Highway 15 runs through Monroe, offering local connections. These highways are critical for Monroe’s role as a transportation and commercial hub in northeastern Louisiana.
9. Alexandria (Louisiana)
City Facts
- Parish: Rapides Parish
- Area: 28.0 square miles
- Population: 45,839 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 318
- Zip Codes: 71301-71315
- Latitude: 31.311294
- Longitude: -92.445137
Location and History:
Alexandria is located in central Louisiana along the Red River. It was founded in 1805 as a trading post and grew rapidly as a center for cotton production and river trade. During the Civil War, Alexandria played a strategic role and was occupied by Union forces. The city was largely destroyed in 1864 during the Red River Campaign but was rebuilt afterward. In the 20th century, Alexandria developed into a regional center for healthcare, education, and government. Today, it serves as a key hub for central Louisiana, with a diverse economy based on manufacturing, agriculture, and services.
Major Landmarks:
- Alexandria Zoological Park: A popular zoo with over 500 animals, offering educational programs and conservation initiatives.
- Kent Plantation House: A historic 18th-century Creole-style plantation home open for tours, showcasing life in early Louisiana.
- Alexandria Museum of Art: A museum featuring regional and national art, with a focus on contemporary Louisiana artists.
- Rapides Parish Coliseum: A multipurpose venue hosting concerts, sporting events, and trade shows.
Major Highways:
Alexandria is connected by Interstate 49, which runs north-south through the city, linking it to Shreveport and Lafayette. U.S. Route 71 and U.S. Route 165 provide additional regional access, while Louisiana Highway 28 connects Alexandria to nearby towns. These highways are essential for Alexandria’s role as a regional transportation and economic center in central Louisiana.
10. Houma (Louisiana)
City Facts
- Parish: Terrebonne Parish
- Area: 14.2 square miles
- Population: 33,508 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 985
- Zip Codes: 70360-70364
- Latitude: 29.595769
- Longitude: -90.719535
Location and History:
Houma is located in southeastern Louisiana, in the heart of Bayou Country, approximately 55 miles southwest of New Orleans. It was established in 1834 and named after the Houma Native American tribe. Houma grew as a center for fishing, shrimping, and trapping, taking advantage of its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and the extensive wetlands of southern Louisiana. In the 20th century, the discovery of oil and natural gas in the region transformed Houma into a hub for the petroleum industry. Today, Houma remains an important center for oilfield services, fishing, and tourism, with a strong emphasis on preserving its Cajun heritage.
Major Landmarks:
- Bayou Terrebonne Waterlife Museum: A museum dedicated to the culture and history of life along the bayou, including fishing, shrimping, and Cajun traditions.
- Southdown Plantation: A historic sugar plantation and museum showcasing the history of sugar production in southern Louisiana.
- Houma Downtown Marina: A picturesque marina offering boat access to the Gulf of Mexico and popular for fishing and recreational boating.
- Terrebonne Folklife Culture Center: A cultural center highlighting the region’s Cajun and Creole heritage through exhibits, workshops, and festivals.
Major Highways:
Houma is served by U.S. Route 90, which runs east-west and connects the city to New Orleans and Lafayette. Louisiana Highway 24 runs through Houma, providing local access to surrounding communities. Louisiana Highway 182 also serves the area, linking Houma to other parts of Terrebonne Parish. These highways are critical for Houma’s role as a regional center for the oil and fishing industries in southern Louisiana.