countyscore
63.1
County Score
Safety 97.5Property Tax 89Cost of Living 73.4

County Report Card

About Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana

Exceeding the National Baseline

Natchitoches Parish performs strongly with a composite score of 63.1, far exceeding the national median of 50.0. This score puts it in the upper tier of American counties for overall quality of life. It demonstrates a high degree of livability compared to the national landscape.

A Top-Performing Parish

With a score of 63.1, Natchitoches outpaces the Louisiana state average of 53.0 by over ten points. It serves as a regional leader, providing a more stable environment than many of its neighbors. This high ranking reflects success in maintaining safety and managing tax burdens.

Elite Safety and Manageable Taxes

The parish excels in safety with an impressive score of 97.5, making it one of the more secure locations in the region. Residents also benefit from a high tax score of 89.0, thanks to an effective tax rate of only 0.470%. These strengths create a protective and financially predictable environment.

Infrastructure and Economic Gaps

Despite its safety, the parish struggles with a low water score of 5.6 and an income score of 9.2. The median household income of $46,798 is low compared to national figures. Environmental risk is also a factor, with a risk score of 43.6 showing room for improvement.

Ideal for Safety-Seeking Families

This parish is a prime choice for families or individuals who place a premium on physical safety and low crime. While income levels are lower, the exceptional safety score and moderate taxes offer peace of mind. It is a standout option for those looking for a secure, low-tax lifestyle.

Score breakdown

Tax89Cost73.4Safety97.5Health30.1Schools51.3Income9.2Risk43.6Water5.6Weather32.5
🏛89
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠73.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼9.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡97.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤30.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓51.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡43.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧5.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤32.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨40.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱31
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Compare Natchitoches Parish with Custer County →Share on X

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Nearby counties

Winn Parish
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67.8
Red River Parish
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64.2
Grant Parish
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Sabine Parish
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Bienville Parish
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Vernon Parish
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De Soto Parish
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Sabine County
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Deep Dives

Natchitoches Parish across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Natchitoches Parish

via TaxByCounty

Natchitoches taxes remain well below nation

At 0.470%, Natchitoches Parish's effective tax rate falls in the bottom 20% nationally, significantly lower than the typical American county's burden. National median property tax is $2,690; Natchitoches homeowners pay $766—less than 30% of that amount.

Slightly above Louisiana state average

Natchitoches Parish's 0.470% effective tax rate ranks slightly above Louisiana's state average of 0.421%, placing it in the upper-middle tier among the state's parishes. At $766 median tax, homeowners here pay about $34 more annually than the state median of $732.

Higher than rural northeast Louisiana peers

Natchitoches Parish's 0.470% rate exceeds both Madison Parish (0.230%) and Morehouse Parish (0.430%), making it the highest-taxed among its immediate rural neighbors. It remains lower, however, than Ouachita Parish's 0.555% rate.

Median home costs $766 yearly in taxes

With a median home value of $163,000 and an effective rate of 0.470%, a typical Natchitoches Parish homeowner pays approximately $766 annually in property taxes. Mortgage holders should budget around $1,075 when escrow accounts are included.

Assessment appeals can unlock tax relief

Natchitoches Parish homeowners should consider requesting a property reassessment if recent home sales in their area suggest their assessed value is too high. The appeal process is free and many parishes find errors during review.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Natchitoches Parish

via CostByCounty

Natchitoches balances affordability well

Natchitoches Parish renters spend 19.7% of income on housing, essentially matching Louisiana's 19.5% average and outperforming the national norm—while earning $46,798, notably closer to national medians than most rural Louisiana parishes. The $767 median rent sits below both state and national typical levels.

Middle-ground affordability in Louisiana

At 19.7%, Natchitoches Parish's rent-to-income ratio places it slightly above the state average, ranking it in the middle of Louisiana's 64 parishes. The parish offers one of the state's more balanced housing markets relative to local earning power.

Better balance than surrounding parishes

Natchitoches Parish renters spend just $767 monthly—less than nearby Ouachita Parish ($923) and only $26 more than Pointe Coupee—while maintaining a healthier income of $46,798. This equilibrium makes Natchitoches one of the region's more sustainable housing markets.

Housing and income alignment

Renters pay $767 monthly while homeowners pay $664, combining for a balanced 19.7% of the $46,798 median household income. Median home values of $163,000 sit notably higher than poorer parishes, reflecting stronger local economic fundamentals.

Natchitoches offers solid value

Natchitoches Parish delivers one of rural Louisiana's better housing-to-income balances, with rents that don't overwhelm local wages and homeownership opportunities at reasonable prices. Consider this parish if you seek authentic Louisiana living without the affordability squeeze of neighboring areas.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Natchitoches Parish

via IncomeByCounty

Natchitoches Parish falls short nationally

Natchitoches Parish households earn $46,798 per year, approximately 37% less than the U.S. median of $74,755. While the parish performs better than some neighbors, it remains significantly below the national average and among the lower-income regions in America.

Middle-low income among Louisiana parishes

At $46,798, Natchitoches Parish's median household income falls 15% below Louisiana's state median of $55,250. The parish ranks in the lower-to-middle tier statewide, with per capita income of $26,602 tracking near the state average of $29,702.

Outearns adjacent parishes in the region

Natchitoches Parish's median income of $46,798 exceeds Madison Parish ($37,267) and Morehouse Parish ($36,981) by significant margins, positioning it as a relative economic leader in northeastern Louisiana. The parish offers stronger income stability than immediate neighbors.

Balanced housing affordability across the parish

At 19.7%, Natchitoches Parish's rent-to-income ratio signals healthy housing affordability, remaining well below the 30% threshold. Median home values of $163,000 remain accessible for many households, supporting homeownership pathways.

Leverage affordable housing to build equity

Natchitoches residents with stable income should explore first-time homebuyer programs to build equity rather than renting indefinitely. Combined with employer retirement benefits and conservative investment strategies, homeownership becomes a powerful wealth-building tool over decades.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Natchitoches Parish

via CrimeByCounty

Understanding Natchitoches Reporting Gaps

Natchitoches Parish reports a 0.0 crime rate per 100,000, which results in a technical safety score of 100.0. This figure likely reflects reporting delays rather than a total absence of crime compared to the national average of 2,385.5.

State Rankings and Data Availability

While the technical score of 100.0 exceeds the state average of 97.1, it is based on incomplete data from three reporting agencies. Local safety rankings may shift significantly once full annual reports are processed.

Contextualizing Safety Without Full Data

The reported 0.0 rate is much lower than the Louisiana average of 1,853.7, though this discrepancy points to missing records. Residents should remain aware that these numbers do not capture the full local picture for 2022.

Violent and Property Crime Status

Both violent and property crime rates are currently listed as zero due to reporting limitations. Without specific numbers, the community must rely on local police updates for accurate safety trends.

Maintaining Vigilance at Home

Despite the lack of official reported incidents, standard home safety practices remain essential. Keeping property well-lit and securing entry points are always smart precautions for Louisiana residents.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Natchitoches Parish

via HealthByCounty

Natchitoches health mirrors national struggle

At 70.4 years, Natchitoches Parish life expectancy sits 6 years below the U.S. average of 76.4 years. However, the parish stands out among Louisiana counties with a 25% poor/fair health rate—notably lower than both its neighbors and the national average of 18%.

Stronger health than most Louisiana parishes

Natchitoches Parish's 70.4-year life expectancy ranks near the state average of 72.5 years, placing it among Louisiana's better-performing counties. At 7.5% uninsured, the parish performs better than Louisiana's 8.1% average, suggesting stronger insurance enrollment.

Best primary care access in region

Natchitoches Parish leads neighboring Madison and Morehouse parishes in primary care providers at 54 per 100,000—nearly triple Morehouse's rate. The parish also ranks solidly on mental health resources with 435 providers per 100,000, supporting robust community behavioral health services.

Strong primary care, moderate mental health access

With 54 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, Natchitoches has invested in accessible routine medical care—about half what urban parishes offer but well above rural averages. Mental health providers number 435 per 100,000, meaning residents can find counseling and psychiatric support without extreme travel.

Ensure stable coverage for preventive care

Natchitoches' 7.5% uninsured rate is solid, but 1 in 13 residents still lack coverage. Visit Natchitoches Community Health Center or navigate Louisiana's marketplace to lock in affordable insurance that covers preventive screenings, medications, and emergency care.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Natchitoches Parish

via SchoolsByCounty

A Diverse Educational Landscape in Natchitoches

Natchitoches Parish features a robust system of 15 public schools serving 5,802 students. The infrastructure is well-distributed, including eight elementary schools, three middle schools, and three high schools across two districts.

Strong Graduation Rates and Steady Scores

Natchitoches Parish achieves a graduation rate of 86.3%, outperforming the state average of 85.4% and nearly meeting the national 87% benchmark. The parish maintains a school score of 55.0 while spending $8,588 per pupil.

District Leadership and Specialized Learning

Natchitoches Parish district is the primary provider with 14 schools and 5,527 students. The parish also hosts the Louisiana School for Math Science & the Arts, a specialized single-school district serving 275 high-achieving students.

Vibrant Towns and Expansive High Schools

The area features a mix of nine town-based schools and six rural campuses, with an average enrollment of 387. Natchitoches Central High School is the largest anchor in the parish, supporting 1,245 students.

High-Performing Schools for Your Next Home

With graduation rates exceeding the state average, Natchitoches Parish is an attractive destination for families. Explore homes near top-rated elementary schools or the central high school to secure a quality education for your children.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Natchitoches Parish

via RiskByCounty

Natchitoches Parish: Slightly Below National Average

Natchitoches Parish scores 56.39 with a Relatively Low rating, sitting slightly below the national average for composite risk. Residents face a moderate level of natural disaster exposure compared to typical Americans.

Lower-Middle Risk in Louisiana

Natchitoches Parish ranks near the middle of Louisiana counties at 56.39, just below the state average of 62.37. It's among the safer parishes in the state, though several neighbors carry notably higher risk.

Safest Option in Cane River Region

Natchitoches Parish's 56.39 score edges out Rapides Parish (84.29) and significantly outperforms Ouachita Parish (87.50) in the surrounding area. It shares similar risk profiles with other central Louisiana parishes but offers slightly better protection.

Hurricane and Flood Lead Natchitoches Threats

Hurricane risk peaks at 75.01 and flood risk follows at 61.26, reflecting the parish's location in Louisiana's exposed zones. Wildfire risk (51.37), earthquake risk (57.06), and tornado risk (64.22) add secondary but real concerns.

Hurricane and Flood Coverage Paramount

Natchitoches Parish residents should prioritize flood insurance (which standard policies exclude) and verify windstorm coverage for hurricane protection. Given the elevated wildfire risk at 51.37, homeowners should also inspect properties for vegetation and defensible space.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Natchitoches Parish

via WeatherByCounty

Well above national averages

Natchitoches Parish averages 66.4°F annually, significantly exceeding the national median temperature. The region defines the classic humid subtropical experience.

Aligning with state norms

The parish temperature of 66.4°F closely tracks the Louisiana state average of 67.0°F. It experiences the typical heat and humidity found throughout the state's interior.

Matching the regional heat

The 91 extreme heat days here match the intensity of neighboring Rapides Parish. However, its 55.9 inches of rainfall is slightly lower than the state average of 60.8 inches.

Steamy summers and soft winters

July averages 83.3°F, driving a total of 91 days per year where temperatures reach 90°F or higher. Winters are mild at 49.8°F with only 0.3 inches of annual snowfall.

Manage the extreme heat

With three full months of 90°F days, cooling capacity is the primary home concern. Outdoor activities require careful planning to avoid peak afternoon heat during the 82.3°F average summer.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Natchitoches Parish

via SoilByCounty

A Typical Louisiana Acidic Profile

Natchitoches Parish maintains an average soil pH of 5.79, almost exactly matching the Louisiana state average. This level is notably more acidic than the national median of 6.5, often requiring lime for optimal crop yields.

Sandy Texture with Fast Drainage

The soil composition is 44.5% sand, which is quite high for the region, balanced by 33.0% silt and 22.4% clay. This sand-heavy mix allows for easier tilling and faster drainage than the heavier clays found eastward.

Lower Organic Reserves

At 1.76%, organic matter is lower than the national 2.0% average and well below the state average of 6.38%. The available water capacity of 0.156 in/in suggests the soil may dry out faster than the state average of 0.182 in/in.

High Runoff Potential

Classified in hydrologic group D, these soils have a very high runoff potential when thoroughly wet. This suggests that despite the sandy texture, deep drainage is restricted, which is a critical consideration for site planning.

Planting in Zone 9a

The long growing season in Zone 9a is perfect for heat-tolerant varieties of peppers and tomatoes. Gardeners should prioritize adding compost to boost the relatively low organic matter levels.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Natchitoches Parish

via LawnByCounty

Navigating Hardship in Natchitoches

With a difficulty score of 31.0, Natchitoches Parish is slightly more challenging for lawn care than the average Louisiana county. In Hardiness Zone 9a, homeowners face tougher conditions than the national average of 50.0.

Sweltering Summers and Frequent Rain

The area endures 91 extreme heat days, which is higher than the state average of 84. Combined with 55.9 inches of rain, this creates a humid environment where grass grows quickly but is also prone to fungal diseases.

Sandy Soil and Acidic pH

The soil pH of 5.79 is slightly below the ideal 6.0 range, requiring minor adjustments for peak growth. With a high sand content of 44.5%, nutrients can leach away quickly, making regular fertilization a necessity.

Severe Drought Challenges

Currently, 100.0% of the parish is in severe drought, following a year where lawns faced 23 weeks of dry conditions. Strict water conservation and morning irrigation are vital to keeping your turf alive under these extreme stresses.

Growing Success in Zone 9a

St. Augustine and Bahia grass are robust choices that can handle the heat and sandy soil of the region. Plan to start your lawn after March 5 to avoid the last frost and maximize the long growing season.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Natchitoches Parish's county score?
Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana has a composite county score of 63.1 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Natchitoches Parish rank among counties in Louisiana?
Natchitoches Parish ranks #17 among all counties in Louisiana on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana?
The median annual property tax in Natchitoches Parish is $766, with an effective tax rate of 0.47%. This earns Natchitoches Parish a tax score of 89/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Natchitoches Parish?
The median household income in Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana is $46,798 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Natchitoches Parish earns an income score of 9.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana a good place to live?
Natchitoches Parish scores 63.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #17 in Louisiana. The best way to evaluate Natchitoches Parish is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Natchitoches Parish with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.