The 10 Fast-Growing Counties in Louisiana Are Exploding in Growth

Many factors play into a given county’s growth or decline rate. A particular industry can bring new businesses and jobs there or peter out in the area, leaving fewer reasons to stay in the county. If you look at the history of mining areas or farming communities, you’ll largely see this reflected in the Census. Industry booms largely occur within the tech and I.T. sector currently, though other areas are also booming. So, whether you’re looking to move to Louisiana or just curious, you’ll find the following Louisiana counties have seen some rapid growth in the last two years.

The Fastest Growing Counties in Louisiana

Under both France’s and Spain’s former rule, Louisiana developed deeply rooted Catholic and religious culture. This has resulted in a little different phrasing in the state. While most of the country calls these boundaries counties, Louisiana has divided up its territory into parishes. The ecclesiastical term for these sections of the state was adopted in 1807 and the state hasn’t seen any need to change. So, as we review the fastest-growing counties in Louisiana, that’s why the term “parish” is used.

10. Lafayette Parish – 11.84% Growth

With the last local Census showing a population of 247,807 in 2023, Lafayette Parish has seen a boom of 11.84% growth in the past two years. The county has been dubbed the Happiest City in America and the center of the state’s Cajun and Creole Country. The parish dates back to the 1700s when the Acadians of Canada were expelled. They settled in the area which remains one of the few locations in the world in which you may experience tastes of this culture.

As one of the fastest-growing counties in Louisiana, the parish contains five cities and a town, plus two census-designated locations and eight unincorporated communities. Lafayette is home to the second largest university in the state, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, and several other colleges and universities. Lafayette Parish encompasses about 269 square miles, making it not only the tenth fastest-growing parish but the third smallest by area.

9. Tangipahoa Parish – 12.95% Growth

After a 12.95% growth rate in just two years, the population of Tangipahoa Parish is 136,775 people. The name comes from the Acolapissa people, meaning “ear of corn” or “those who gather corn.” The parish lies along the southeastern border of the state, with the parish seat being Amite City. Contained within the parish, Lake Pontchartrain along the southeastern side of the parish, and Southeastern Louisiana University (in Hammond) draw visitors and residents to the area.

At one point, this part of the state was part of West Florida, so the parish is known as one of the Florida Parishes. The parish was organized in 1869 during the Reconstruction period post-Civil War.

8. Bossier Parish – 13.08% Growth

Hitting a whopping 13.08% growth boom between 2020 and 2023, Bossier Parish now boasts of 132,277 residents. Tucked into the northwestern region of Louisiana, along the eastern bank of the Red River, Bossier City, for example, has had its own huge growth with around 1,500 new residents alone in just 10 years. Also the sister city of Shreveport, Bossier City has found life in songs by David Allan Coe, Johnny Rodriguez, and Turnpike Troubadours. The parish overall has experienced huge growth thanks to its connectedness to Shreveport, its unique place in pop culture, and its gradually increasing industry.

7. Livingston Parish – 14.48% Growth

With a population bump of 14.48%, now peaking at 146,560 people, Livingston Parish fits within the Florida Parishes. This fastest-growing county in Louisiana parish (and city) was named for Edward Livingston, an American jurist and statesman who assisted in drafting the Louisiana Civil Code. Livingston Parish fits into the Baton Rouge metro area.

The parish happens to be home to two installations of the gravitational wave observatory (LIGO), which seeks to detect cosmic gravitational waves. Not that long ago, it was the fastest-growing parish in the state, partially due to these installations.

6. Orleans Parish – 15.19% Growth

Located in the southeastern part of the state, Orleans Parish is home to 396,048 people. One of the fastest-growing counties in Louisiana, this parish came into existence in 1807. Orleans was named for the Duke of Orleans who reigned as Regent in France for Louis XV from 1715 to 1723. The parish contains the city of New Orleans. The large city helps to make the parish one of the largest in the state.

The parish resides along the Mississippi River Delta and contains Lake Pontchartrain partially, along with the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park and part of the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve. Despite the large population numbers, it is the smallest parish in Louisiana by land area.

5. Calcasieu Parish – 16.2% Growth

Containing 223,991 people, Calcasieu has seen a large boom in population, at 16.2%. Miles of rivers, lakes, and streams reside within the parish, making fishing a hugely popular activity within the parish. Approximately 1,220 acres make up the parish, with plenty of outdoor spaces for hiking, camping, hunting, and more.

The parish dates back to Spanish occupation in the 1700s. Interestingly, in 1797, a strip of land within the now parish was granted to Jose M. Mora as a “Neutral Strip.” The land became a refuge for outlaws and desperadoes, as well as filibusters from Mississippi, Carolina, and Georgia.

4. St. Tammany Parish – 17.15% Growth

The fourth fastest-growing parish in Louisiana has seen a massive 17.15% percent boost. It reached a population of 273,819 people in 2023. St. Tammany Parish received its name from the legendary Lenape Chief of Chiefs, Tamanend. He is known as the Patron Saint of America. Found within the boundaries of the parish, other evidence of the historical First Nations past may also be seen. This includes the Colapissas, Bayou Goulas, Biloxi, Choctaw, Pensacola, and Chickasaw Nations.

The parish finds its place among the Florida Parishes, as well, somewhat thanks to Pierre Le Moyne d’Iberville, believed to be the first European to visit the present-day parish bounds.

3. West Baton Rouge Parish – 18.64%

With an 18.64% growth, reaching 28,222 in 2023, West Baton Rouge Parish produces literally millions of dollars in products exported around the country. White sugar, petroleum, and many others provide the financial foundation for the parish. Much of the industry in the area has also been founded within the region’s relationship to the Mississippi River. The fertile land provided lush places for early settlers. They still support crops, though not as much as it did in the 1960s when the shift away from farming began.

Now, West Baton Rouge Parish focuses more on its role as one of the largest deep-water ports in the world. Another huge industry is chemical manufacturing.

2. Ascension Parish – 23.38% Growth

With a current population of 132,284 people, Ascension Parish saw a 23.38% increase between 2020 and 2023. The parish is known for its Cajun-inspired dishes. The vibrant festivals, fascinating history, and other attractions also draw in visitors and new residents alike. You’ll find the parish situated between Baton Rouge and New Orleans, which has helped to create this unique cultural heritage.

The parish is home to an important junction of the Mississippi River and Bayou Lafourche. The cities throughout the parish indulge in the classic tastes, sounds, and sights folks associate with the word “Louisiana.” Plus, enjoy the many museums, gardens, and outdoor activities.

1. St. Bernard Parish – 28.49% Growth

The number one fastest-growing parish in Louisiana is St. Bernard, with a massive boom of 28.49%. The population reached 46,125 in 2023. Situated just 5 miles from downtown New Orleans, this boom can’t be a surprise to anyone. The scenic beauty, historical significance, and gorgeous waterways create only part of the draw. Lake Borgne, the Breton Sound, and the Mississippi River create the perfect parish for fishing, water sports, and more. Visitors and residents are drawn to the area’s historical sites and natural beauty.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Katherine Welles/Shutterstock.com