LaSalle County, LA
14,729 residents · 625 sq mi · 23.6/sq mi · 100% rural
About LaSalle County
LaSalle Parish is a parish located in the U.S. state of Louisiana. As of the 2020 United States census, the population was 14,791. The parish seat is Jena. The parish was created in 1910 from the western section of Catahoula Parish.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a predominantly rural lifestyle with a low population density of 23.6 people per square mile. The climate is characterized by a warm, humid environment, with an annual mean temperature of 66.1°F and significant rainfall of 58.2 inches per year, supporting a growing season typical for USDA zone 9b. This allows for a variety of crops to thrive, although the heat of summer can be challenging for some plants and outdoor activities.
Natural hazards present in the area include hurricanes and heat waves, with FEMA hazard ranks of 65 and 63, respectively, indicating a higher level of risk. Additionally, the area has a moderate violence percentile of 46, suggesting that while it is relatively safer than many places, caution is still warranted. The cost of living is reasonable, with a median home price of $120,500, but potential homesteaders should be aware of the limited broadband access at just 46% of households.
This county may be well-suited for individuals or families who prioritize rural living and can adapt to the climate's heat and potential natural disasters. Those with experience in gardening and self-sufficient practices would likely thrive here. However, it may not be ideal for newcomers to homesteading or those who require robust internet access for work or education, making connectivity a possible dealbreaker for some.