Cost of Living in Ruston, LA

With a cost of living index of 73, Ruston, LA is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 27% cheaper than the national average and in line with the Louisiana state average. Ruston is a smaller community of 22,224 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Ruston's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $819 (38% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $226,700 (26% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 6.9x the median household income — a challenging ratio that puts homeownership out of reach for many residents.

The median household income in Ruston is $32,765, which is 56% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 30% of household income on rent. This is near the 30% threshold that financial experts generally consider the upper limit of affordability. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Ruston. The area sees an average annual temperature of 65.7°F, with summers averaging 82°F and winters around 49°F. Annual rainfall totals 55.1 inches spread over roughly 106 days. The mild climate is a draw for many residents and keeps utility costs moderate year-round.

Everyday prices in the Monroe, LA (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area are generally below the national average. Out of 6 common items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6 are priced lower than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.