Lafayette
About Lafayette, Louisiana
Welcome to Lafayette, Louisiana, a city known for its vibrant Cajun and Creole culture, rich history, and welcoming community. Lafayette offers a unique blend of urban amenities and Southern charm, making it an ideal place for veterans and their families. The city is home to numerous attractions, including Vermilionville Historic Village, the Acadiana Center for the Arts, and a variety of parks and recreational facilities.
Discover the unique character and welcoming atmosphere of Lafayette.
Average Home Price in Lafayette
The average home price in Lafayette, LA, is approximately $219,135.
Based on calculations of home data from MLS and/or public records.
Veteran Benefits in Louisiana
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Louisiana Veterans Homes
Louisiana operates five veterans homes located in Bossier City, Jackson, Jennings, Monroe, and Reserve. For admission to a Louisiana Veterans Home, a veteran must be a resident of the state of Louisiana, with an other-than-dishonorable discharge. Applicants who have income will be expected to pay for their care. Spouses and Gold Star parents are eligible if they meet basic qualifying criteria.
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Louisiana Veteran Financial Benefits
Income Tax: Up to $30,000 of active-duty pay is tax-free if stationed out of state for 120 consecutive days or more. Louisiana also exempts pays that are exempt from federal income taxes, including combat pay and hazardous duty pay. Retired pay and Survivor Benefit Plan payments are tax-free.
Property Tax Exemptions: Voters approved property tax exemptions for disabled veterans in November 2022. Disability percentages determine the amount of the exemptions, up to a home's total assessed value for veterans who are 100% disabled or can't work at all.
Military Family Assistance Fund: This benefit can provide financial support to Louisiana veterans and their families when they experience financial hardships. The MFA can pay up to $10,000 for one claim per active-duty order in a 12-month period. Applicants must submit a completed application to Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs and include all required supporting documentation, as certain criteria applies. The MFA is funded entirely by private donations from individuals and corporations.
National Guard Death & Disability Benefit: Louisiana National Guard members who received a permanent and total disability while on federal or state active duty on or after Sep. 11, 2001, or the beneficiary of record of those killed in action may qualify for a $250,000 death or $100,000 disability benefit from the state. Certain restrictions apply.
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Louisiana Veteran Employment Benefits
State Employment: Louisiana state and city civil service departments award a 5-point preference to honorably discharged veterans and 10-point preference to honorably discharged service-connected disabled veterans. Spouses of veterans who are rated unemployable by the Department of Veterans Affairs as well as un-remarried widows of deceased veterans and Gold Star parents are also eligible for this preference. Some restrictions apply for eligibility.
Transfer of Military Skills to Civilian Employment: Individuals with military training and experience can get a corresponding professional license or certification if they had a military occupational specialty that qualified them for that license.
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Louisiana Educational Benefits
Louisiana Title 29 Dependents
Educational Assistance: Louisiana offers education assistance to surviving spouses of deceased veterans as well as children of 90% or greater disabled veterans and children of 100% disabled and unemployable veterans. The deceased veteran must have been a resident of Louisiana for at least 12 months immediately preceding entry into service. The living veteran must have lived in the state for at least 24 months prior to the child being admitted into the program. The surviving spouse has 10 years to use the benefit. The child must be between the ages of 16 and 25 to be eligible.
National Guard State Tuition Exemption Program (STEP): Members are exempt from tuition at any state-funded college, university, or vocational/technical school for five years or a bachelor's degree, whichever comes first.
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Louisiana Veteran Recreation Benefits
Free Hunting/Fishing Licenses for Disabled Veterans: Disabled veterans classified with a service-connected permanent disability, rated 50% or higher, can get hunting and fishing licenses free of charge. The free licenses are available to both residents and non-residents of the state.
'Veteran' Designation and Discounts on Driver's Licenses and IDs: Veterans may receive a special "Veteran" designation on Louisiana driver's licenses and IDs. They may also qualify for fee discounts or waivers.
Active-Duty Military Hunting & Fishing Licenses: Active-duty members and their dependents may buy hunting and fishing licenses at the resident rate.
Free and Discounted Admission to State Parks: Disabled veterans, as well as everyone in the same vehicle as them, are exempt from paying the day-use entrance fee to any Louisiana state park. Active-duty members plus one additional family member get half off admission to state parks.
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Louisiana Veterans Cemeteries
The state of Louisiana has four veterans cemeteries. They are located in Keithville, Leesville, Rayville, and Slidell. The cemeteries are available for qualifying veterans, their spouses and dependent children. There is no charge for veterans and only a small fee for spouses and dependent children. Visit the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs' website for more information about any of these programs.
Lafayette Neighborhoods and Surrounding Cities
Lafayette is characterized by its diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique amenities and lifestyles. From bustling downtown areas to peaceful suburban communities, here's a deeper look into some of the key areas:
- River Ranch: The heart of the city, featuring historic buildings, local shops, and cultural attractions. It's a vibrant area with a rich historical heritage.
- Freetown-Port Rico: A picturesque neighborhood known for its tree-lined streets, spacious homes, and family-friendly amenities. Freetown-Port Rico offers a peaceful suburban lifestyle.
- Broussard: A residential area with affordable homes, local parks, and a strong sense of community.
- Milton: A scenic area offering beautiful homes, outdoor recreational opportunities, and a serene living environment.
- Youngsville: A suburban neighborhood with spacious homes, well-kept lawns, and family-friendly amenities. Youngsville is popular with families and retirees.
- Scott: A diverse neighborhood with affordable housing options, local parks, and a strong sense of community.
- Carencro: A residential area known for its quiet streets, well-maintained homes, and community parks.
- Duson: A modern suburban development with new homes, parks, and community facilities. Duson is ideal for those seeking a contemporary living environment.
- Abbeville: A quiet, residential neighborhood with affordable homes, local parks, and a friendly community atmosphere.
- Breaux Bridge: A well-established neighborhood with tree-lined streets, historic homes, and a friendly community atmosphere.
- Crowley: A suburban area known for its spacious homes, family-friendly environment, and convenient access to shopping and dining.
- Opelousas: A picturesque neighborhood with beautiful homes, parks, and recreational facilities. Opelousas is ideal for those seeking a high-end, suburban lifestyle.
- New Iberia: A luxurious community with upscale homes, manicured lawns, and a strong community spirit. New Iberia offers a high-end suburban lifestyle.
- St. Martinville: A quiet, residential neighborhood with affordable homes, local parks, and a strong sense of community.
- Jeanerette: A vibrant area with a mix of residential and commercial properties, offering a variety of amenities and services.
- Franklin: A suburban area with spacious homes, parks, and recreational facilities. Franklin offers a peaceful suburban lifestyle.
- Delcambre: A small town located just west of Lafayette, offering a rural feel with easy access to city amenities.
- Erath: A neighboring town to the northwest, known for its charming downtown, beautiful landscapes, and outdoor recreational activities.
- Maurice: A nearby town to the west, offering a rural environment with scenic views and outdoor recreational activities.
- Rayne: A neighboring city to the east, offering a mix of residential neighborhoods, local businesses, and community facilities.
In addition to these neighborhoods, Lafayette is surrounded by cities that offer their own unique attractions and living experiences. To the northwest, Erath provides a rural environment with easy access to city amenities, while to the east, Rayne offers charming downtown and outdoor recreational activities.
Military in Lafayette
Lafayette is proud to support its military community, with various resources and services available to veterans and active-duty members. The proximity to several military installations ensures strong support networks:
- Louisiana Army National Guard Armory: Located in Lafayette, offering a range of services and support for military personnel and their families.
- Lafayette VA Outpatient Clinic: Provides comprehensive healthcare services to veterans in the Lafayette area.
- Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs: Located in Baton Rouge, offering additional healthcare services and support for veterans.
Local Universities in Lafayette
- University of Louisiana at Lafayette (UL Lafayette): Offers a wide range of academic programs, technical training, and continuing education opportunities.
- South Louisiana Community College: Provides vocational training and associate degree programs in various fields, serving the Lafayette area and beyond.
- Remington College Lafayette Campus: Located in Lafayette, offering undergraduate and graduate programs in various disciplines.
VA Home Loans in Lafayette with MHS Lending
Lafayette's vibrant community and diverse amenities make it an appealing destination for homeownership. MHS Lending is committed to supporting veterans and military families in Lafayette with tailored VA Home Loan services, ensuring a personalized and supportive home buying experience.
Working with MHS Lending in Lafayette offers:
- Specialized Local Knowledge: Our familiarity with Lafayette's real estate market means we can find the right home for you in this diverse city.
- Expertise in VA Loans: Our dedicated focus on VA Loans simplifies the process, making your path to homeownership smooth and straightforward.
- Personalized Customer Service: We pride ourselves on providing personalized support, guiding you through every step of the home buying process with your best interests at heart.
Let MHS Lending be your partner in exploring the opportunities for homeownership in Lafayette. Discover the advantages of VA Home Loans and begin your journey to finding your perfect home. Get Started Now.
FAQ’s about VA Loans in Lafayette
How do I buy a house in Lafayette? The best way to get started is to give us a call or fill out this form to get started!
How do I find more information about property taxes and exemptions for veterans in Lafayette? Click here to read more details regarding major property tax exemptions in every state.
What are the average interest rates in Lafayette? Interest rates for VA Loans are often lower than the national average rates for conventional loans. Click here to learn more about interest rates.
