Living in Baton Rouge, Louisiana: A Personal Account
For 25 years, I called Baton Rouge home. It has its quirks, but let me break down the pros and cons of living there to offer a well-rounded perspective.
Overview of Baton Rouge, LA
Baton Rouge is one of the largest cities in Louisiana, with a metro area of approximately 900,000 people. Known for its cultural events, specifically LSU football, it is also heavily influenced by the oil and gas industry. Traffic is a perpetual problem, especially during holidays and peak hours.
Pros of Living in Baton Rouge, LA
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Baton Rouge is relatively affordable when compared to other metropolitan areas in the United States. Rent is typically lower than in most cities, with luxury apartments priced at a maximum of around $2,000. More commonly, you can expect to pay between $750 and $1,500 for a reasonable living space.
Cuisine
Baton Rouge boasts a vibrant culinary scene that places it among the top cities for restaurants in the nation. The local cuisine is renowned for its freshness and quality. It's crucial to tip at restaurants, as establishments here have strict policies against non-tippers. This commitment to quality extends to local favorites like Raisin Cane, though some may argue that they are overrated.
College Life
Baton Rouge is a true college town, with LSU serving as the focal point of the city. Home to approximately 39,000 students, the town benefits from a lively and vibrant atmosphere that reflects the college experience.
Cons of Living in Baton Rouge, LA
Racial Tensions and Crime
Race relations in Baton Rouge are a mixed bag. While the city has a significant African American population, there are evident divides and instances of racism. Crime rates in the city are alarmingly high, with several neighborhoods experiencing significant safety issues.
Vibrant but Predominantly College Town
Baton Rouge's identity is heavily tied to LSU, which can limit the diversity of activities and events available outside of football season. Few opportunities for plays, concerts, or family-friendly outings make the city feel like a large university with limited amenities for non-students.
Unfavorable Reputation and Ethical Concerns
Crimes committed by police officers in Baton Rouge have a reputation for being violent. It's important to exercise caution and tolerance when interacting with local law enforcement. Additionally, corruption is a prevalent issue within the city, particularly among city police. The state police, however, are known to be more upright.
Economic Dependence on Oil and Gas
Living in Baton Rouge can be challenging if your career does not align with the city's primary industries, which are centered around oil and gas. With over 55 power plants in the area, employment outside this sector may be difficult to find.
Urban Expanse and Traffic
Despite its large population, Baton Rouge has a sprawling nature. It can take upwards of an hour to travel across the city, and traffic is consistently heavy, making daily life a challenge.
Conclusion
While Baton Rouge offers affordability and a vibrant food scene, the city's challenges in terms of race relations, crime, and the predominant college-town culture make it a place where one must tread carefully. If you're not originally from Louisiana or have strong ties to the area, it may not be the best choice for a long-term residence.