Historic homes, traditional neighborhood developments, compact patio homes, rural properties and even tiny homes — real estate in Lafayette comprises something for everyone. The city’s geographic areas range from historic Downtown to suburban neighborhoods and what was once considered the outskirts of town. Developments can be found along the Vermilion River, in growing Upper Lafayette and Southside areas of Broussard and Youngsville.
Planned communities like River Ranch and Couret Farms represent the “smart growth” idea with built-in restaurants, shops, spas and entertainment areas. Le Triomphe Golf & Country Club was founded in 1986 as a master-planned community built around one of the top five courses in Louisiana.
For historic charm, established neighborhoods like the Saints Streets, Bendel Gardens, Freetown and the bordering cities of Carencro and Scott have affordable real estate along with centuries-old oaks. With space to spread out but still retain easy access to amenities, areas like the Northside — home to Acadiana Nature Station — and the southwest corner of the parish, which is still heavily agricultural, are becoming more desirable.
Lafayette’s “Restaurant Row” is located on Ambassador Caffery Parkway, where you’ll find the hustle and bustle of the city. Kaliste Saloom Road is another area experiencing much commercial development but also heavily residential and bounded by several neighborhoods.
Walkability is becoming more important to the homebuying process, and TNDs like River Ranch, along with Downtown, can offer sidewalks, bikeable streets and access to city landmarks. Downtown features public parks, museums, Acadiana Center for the Arts and the main branch of Lafayette Public Library.
Options for townhouse and apartment living are also plentiful in Lafayette. There are approximately 125 apartment complexes in the parish made up of one- to four-bedroom units in all price ranges. For those looking to downsize even more, Tee Tiny Houses is Louisiana’s first tiny house business and has several models under development.
Neighborhoods in Lafayette
Upper Lafayette
Experiencing a rebirth, this section of the city contains older homes in rural areas, as well as new neighborhoods. Parks and playgrounds, the Acadiana Park Nature Station, Couret Farms development, two public libraries and two golf courses combine with rolling hills and new commercial development to make this area a desirable and affordable place to live.
Central/Downtown
Representing the original section of Lafayette, then known as Vermilionville, Downtown features many historic buildings and subdivisions with homes on the historic register, along with museums, art galleries and the main branch of the public library. Surrounding areas include landmarks such as the Cajundome, University Medical Center and University Research Park, as well as sprawling neighborhoods along Johnston Street in a variety of price ranges.
Oil Center
The largest area of neighborhoods surrounding the Vermilion River, this area is also home to retail and commercial hub known as the Oil Center. Residents have easy access to Lafayette General Medical Center, two boat launches, Girard Park, Heymann Center for the Performing Arts and the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.
Kaliste Saloom/Ambassador Caffery
Heavily residential and also featuring much commercial growth, Kaliste Saloom Road and Ambassador Caffery Parkway — known as Restaurant Row — are two major thoroughfares that run through this area. Both old and new neighborhoods, including River Ranch and The Settlement, have access to The Heart Hospital, Women’s & Children’s Hospital, The Mall of Acadiana and several parks and health clubs.
Youngsville/Broussard
The fastest-growing section of the parish, the communities of Broussard and Youngsville retain a small-town feel with big real estate options. The traditional neighborhood development of Sugar Mill Pond is located in Youngsville, while Broussard offers historic homes. Public libraries, the Zoo of Acadiana, Lafayette Regional Airport and plenty of shopping and restaurants add to the amenities.
Surrounding areas
Bordering Lafayette are the smaller cities of Carencro, Scott and Duson. Located just minutes from the city, these areas have quaint main streets, historic homes, agricultural terrain and increased commercial growth. w
Traditional Neighborhood Developments
Communities that celebrate a certain lifestyle, traditional neighborhood developments, or TNDs, incorporate mixed-use elements such as parks, broad sidewalks, retail, dining and professional services, along with a range of architectural styles. Residents have the option of walking, biking or driving within their neighborhood, and neighbors can connect at the nearest park, corner restaurant or boutique.
Lafayette TNDs:
— River Ranch
— Sugar Mill Pond
— Olde Towne at Millcreek
— Couret Farms