Living a Lakeside Lifestyle in Natchitoches, Louisiana

Natchitoches (NACK-uh-tush), Louisiana is located on the Cane River Lake. Long ago wealthy southern planters established cotton plantations with gorgeous mansions along this slow moving river. Their legacy has resulted in a 33 block Historic District, which is now a popular tourist destination. Most of the town is quite prosperous, although there are some poorer areas. Natchitoches was the picturesque setting for the movie Steel Magnolias, starring Sally Field and Shirley MacLaine. An older movie set here is The Horse Soldiers with William Holden and the Duke, John Wayne. The town was founded in 1714, and is proud to be the oldest permanent settlement within the Louisiana Purchase.

The town offers unusually vivid old-world charm on brick streets with wrought iron decorated buildings, all surrounded by live oaks draped with Spanish moss. Much of the architecture goes back to the mid-1800’s, mixing Queen Anne, Victorian, and Creole styles.

Where to Retire in Natchitoches and Home Prices

Active adults 55+ have a number of different housing choices in this popular retirement town. They can live in the historic district, in a newer subdivision, condos, apartments, or nearby mobile home parks. Property taxes are very low. The median home value in Natchitoches was $203,782 in mid-2022, according to Zillow.

What Is Special about Natchitoches

Natchitoches is a charming old city with large Historic District. A Christmas lighting festival on the Cane River attracts 500,000 visitors. Many historic homes and plantations are open to the public for tours. The city is also home to Northwestern State University. Outdoor recreation such as fishing is very good and a reason why many people live here.

What Is Not Special about Natchitoches

• The community has its poorer neighborhoods. • Hot, humid summers • There is a fairly high rate of property related crime

Climate and Physical Environment

The city of Natchitoches is located in central Louisiana, 67 miles south of Shreveport. There are several lakes in the area, including Chapin Lake, plus many streams. The average July temp is in the low 80s and the average Jan temp is in the high 40s. View Google Map forNatchitoches.

Restaurants & Cultural Scene

There is a Creative and Performing Arts Center, 2 libraries, and the George Williamson Museum. Northwestern State University has many cultural programs.

Crime

The crime rate is about double the national average.

Medical Facilities

There are 2 hospitals here: Natchitoches Parish Hospital and Satellite Rehab Hospital at Natchitoches

Transportation

Alexandria International Airport is 50 miles away.

Valuable Links

City of Natchitoches

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