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Monroe,LA Neighborhood Guides

Neighborhood Map

Discovering Monroe, LA: A Guide to Its Neighborhoods

Monroe, Louisiana, is a charming city that offers a unique blend of Southern hospitality, vibrant culture, and rich history. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a newcomer, exploring the best neighborhoods in Monroe reveals a diverse landscape filled with inviting communities, local attractions, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy life. From quiet suburban streets to lively downtown areas, Monroe neighborhoods map out a variety of lifestyles and experiences that make this city truly special.

Demographic Insights & Community Composition

The neighborhoods in Monroe reflect a diverse demographic mix that contributes to the city’s welcoming atmosphere. Areas like the historic Garden District feature older, established families and beautifully preserved homes, while neighborhoods such as Lakeshore attract younger professionals and students, thanks to their proximity to the University of Louisiana at Monroe. The population is a blend of various age groups and cultural backgrounds, fostering a strong sense of community and inclusiveness that’s evident in local events and neighborhood gatherings.

The Structure, Culture & Personality of the City’s Neighborhoods

Each neighborhood in Monroe offers its own distinct character and vibe. For example, the downtown area buzzes with energy, featuring arts venues like the Monroe Civic Center and the Masur Museum of Art. Meanwhile, neighborhoods like Richwood provide a more relaxed, suburban feel with tree-lined streets and family-friendly parks. The city’s layout encourages residents to engage with their surroundings, with many neighborhoods hosting farmers markets, music festivals, and community sports leagues that highlight Monroe’s rich cultural fabric.

Getting Around: Transit Information and Accessibility

Monroe’s neighborhoods are fairly accessible by car, but the city also offers public transportation options through the Ouachita Parish Transit Authority, which services many key areas. For those living near the University of Louisiana at Monroe or downtown, biking and walking are popular ways to get around, especially with Monroe’s ongoing efforts to improve pedestrian-friendly spaces. The Monroe neighborhoods map provides helpful insights into transit routes and accessibility, making it easier for residents and visitors to explore the city without hassle.

Food & Social Scene: Are Some Areas More Popular Than Others, Hotspots

When it comes to dining and socializing, Monroe’s neighborhoods shine with an array of options. The downtown and midtown areas are hotspots, featuring popular eateries like The Warehouse Restaurant and Cajun Cabin, known for their delicious local cuisine. Meanwhile, neighborhoods like West Monroe, just across the Ouachita River, offer trendy cafes and breweries that attract a younger crowd. Whether you’re in the mood for classic Southern comfort food or innovative culinary experiences, Monroe’s best neighborhoods deliver a vibrant food and social scene.

What Are Some Things People Might Not Know About These Neighborhoods?

Many people might be surprised to learn that Monroe neighborhoods are home to hidden gems like the Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge, which offers stunning natural beauty just minutes from the city center. Additionally, some neighborhoods boast unique architectural styles, from charming Craftsman homes to mid-century modern designs. The city also prides itself on strong community involvement, with volunteer opportunities and neighborhood associations playing a key role in maintaining the quality of life. Exploring the Monroe neighborhoods map is a great way to uncover these little-known treasures and better understand what makes this city so special.

Monroe Demographics

Population 47,631
Density (People/sqml.) 1,602
Median Age 34.3
Married Couples
32%
32% of the population of Monroe aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
23%
23% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

Best Neighborhoods

Hood  Med. Age  Have Kids  Home Price  Med. Income  Affordability 
South Riverfront 33.4 26.2% $66,173 $32,489 2.5
Riverfront 37.9 23.8% $150,800 $40,904 2.8
North Monroe 36 31.9% $281,211 $92,698 2.9
Downtown 36.6 24.7% $106,950 $26,373 3.3
Garden District 45.1 17.4% $214,433 $64,852 3.3
Lamyville 37.5 18.3% $119,930 $34,490 3.8
Midtown 38.8 16.4% $194,882 $56,216 4.0
Booker T Washington 37.1 20.3% $98,040 $27,320 4.0
Lakeshore 32.1 18% $174,033 $34,964 5.1
University Area 36.6 14.8% $162,125 $34,146 5.2

Monroe neighborhoods bring their own blend of lifestyle, affordability, and long-term appeal, and the data in the table above helps highlight what makes each area stand out. By comparing home prices, median income, average age, families with kids, and housing affordability ratios, you can quickly uncover the best neighborhoods in Monroe—those that balance cost, character, and overall livability. For budget-minded buyers, the table also makes it easy to identify the most affordable neighborhoods in Monroe, where lower home prices combined with local income levels create meaningful value. Families can use the children-per-household data to pinpoint the best neighborhoods for families, revealing which areas offer strong community connections and a family-friendly atmosphere. Meanwhile, adults looking for quieter, age-friendly surroundings can turn to neighborhoods with higher median ages to find the best neighborhoods for retirees, where comfort, stability, and an easy pace of living tend to define the local experience. This data-driven overview offers a clear starting point for understanding how each neighborhood aligns with the lifestyle you want.

Crime in Monroe

Violent Crime 427% Higher than Nat. Avg.
Property Crime 226% Higher than Nat. Avg.
Total Crime 260% Higher than Nat. Avg.
Crime
 
Reported
 
Monroe
/100k
LA
/100k
National
/100k
Murder 7 15.1 10.8 5.0
Rape 14 30.2 33.7 37.5
Robbery 76 164.2 39.4 60.6
Assault 779 1,682.9 436.0 256.1
Total Violent Crime 876 1,892 520 359
Burglary 649 1,402.0 405.4 229.2
Theft 1,841 3,977.1 1,636.2 1,272.1
Vehicle Theft 164 354.3 254.8 258.8
Total Property Crime 2,654 5,733 2,296 1,760
TOTAL CRIME 3,530 7,626 2,816 2,119

Historical Crime Data

Date & Last Updated: This data reflects the 2024 calendar year and was released from the FBI in September, 2025; this is the most current data available.