Rentometer, Inc. | Data as of 12/25/2025
Lake Charles’ metro area blends a vibrant waterfront lifestyle with affordable rental options that appeal to students, military families, and professionals alike. Downtown’s historic district and the revitalized Lakeshore neighborhood offer a mix of modern apartments and classic single‑family homes within walking distance of the lake, the Convention Center, and a lively arts scene. Renters can find studio apartments typically in the $950‑$1,000 range, while one‑bedroom units hover around the $940‑$960 bracket, providing a cost‑effective gateway to city living. Larger families often look to two‑ and three‑bedroom apartments, which commonly sit in the $1,100‑$1,400 range, delivering space without breaking the budget.
The surrounding suburbs, such as Westlake and Prien Lake, feature a strong selection of detached houses that cater to a variety of household sizes. Three‑bedroom homes generally command rents near $1,500, and properties with four or more bedrooms can reach the $2,500 level, reflecting the desirability of spacious living near top-rated schools and outdoor recreation like the Creole Nature Trail. With its blend of cultural attractions, convenient access to I‑10, and a welcoming community atmosphere, Lake Charles remains a compelling market for renters seeking both affordability and quality of life.
| Property Type | Bedrooms | Average | Median | Min - Max | 25th - 75th |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment | 1 Bedroom | $916 | $949 | $219 - $1,266 | $745 - $1,095 |
| Apartment | 2 Bedroom | $1,162 | $1,175 | $720 - $1,703 | $895 - $1,395 |
| Apartment | 3 Bedroom | $1,393 | $1,506 | $750 - $1,800 | $1,099 - $1,720 |
| Apartment | 4+ Bedroom | $1,108 | $1,125 | $950 - $1,250 | $950 - $1,250 |
| House | Studio | $1,050 | $900 | $750 - $1,500 | $750 - $1,500 |
| House | 1 Bedroom | $1,114 | $700 | $600 - $7,000 | $675 - $795 |
| House | 2 Bedroom | $1,029 | $900 | $700 - $2,600 | $825 - $1,100 |
| House | 3 Bedroom | $1,601 | $1,422 | $700 - $5,716 | $1,100 - $1,900 |
| House | 4+ Bedroom | $2,414 | $2,350 | $1,100 - $5,500 | $1,800 - $2,800 |
In the current period, the average rent in Lake Charles, LA was $1,154 for Studio, $966 for 1 Bedroom, $1,076 for 2 Bedroom, $1,580 for 3 Bedroom, and $2,333 for 4+ Bedroom.
Data provided by Rentometer, Inc.