Louisiana Communities

“The Pelican State”

Louisiana is located in the southern region of the United States of America. It is bordered to the west by the state of Texas, to the north by Arkansas, to the east by the state of Mississippi, and to the south by the Gulf of Mexico.  Its capital is Baton Rouge and largest city is New Orleans. Its unique geography consists of bayous, marshes and inlets.

Named after Louis XIV, King of France from 1643–1715, some Louisiana urban environments have a multicultural, multilingual heritage, being so strongly influenced by an admixture of 18th century French, Spanish and African cultures.  Especially notable are the distinct culture of the Creoles and Cajuns.

The Louisiana climate is influenced heavily by the gulf. Summers are hot and humid and winters are mild.  Precipitation is frequent throughout the year, although the summer is slightly wetter than the rest of the year.

Retiring in Louisiana

Louisiana is progressive in its effort to attract retirees to the state.  It is one of only six states in the country that has a certified retirement community program with the purpose of encouraging economic development.

In 1997, just as the oldest Baby Boomers were entering their fifties, Louisiana convened a task force to address potential impacts and opportunities of its aging population. Soon thereafter, in 1999, the Louisiana Legislature established the Encore Louisiana within the Office of the Lieutenant Governor.

Encore Louisiana’s goal is to attract and retain residents 50 years of age and above. They promote active living, community livability and quality of life through community education, strategic partnerships and recognition programs. The Commission also provides direct support to the people, places and programs that make Louisiana an ideal home for persons 50 and above.

The fact that Louisiana is focusing so much energy and effort into making the state appealing to those 50 and above is very attractive to retirees.

Another factor that is appealing to retirees are the low taxes.  Income tax rate ranges from 2% to 6%. Sales tax is 4%. Political subdivisions can add a sales tax to this. Most public sector and military pensions are exempt from state income tax. Part of private sector pensions are exempt. People over 65 can qualify (with income limitations) to have the assessed value of their home frozen for property tax purposes. And, there is an inheritance tax.

Visit our Active Adult Living Retirement Community in Louisiana:

• Alexandria:  England Oaks

We look forward to welcoming you as part of our family.