List of Counties in Louisiana
Louisiana has 64 parishes, which are equivalent to counties in other states. The most populous parishes are East Baton Rouge Parish (Baton Rouge), Jefferson Parish, Orleans Parish (New Orleans), St. Tammany Parish, Lafayette Parish, Caddo Parish, Calcasieu Parish, Ouachita Parish, Ascension Parish, and Tangipahoa Parish. East Baton Rouge Parish, which includes the state capital, is the largest parish by population. Orleans Parish, which is coterminous with New Orleans, is also highly populous. Jefferson and St. Tammany parishes are part of the New Orleans metropolitan area and contribute to the state’s economy and culture.
List of All Counties in Louisiana
- Acadia Parish, Louisiana
- Allen Parish, Louisiana
- Ascension Parish, Louisiana
- Assumption Parish, Louisiana
- Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana
- Beauregard Parish, Louisiana
- Bienville Parish, Louisiana
- Bossier Parish, Louisiana
- Caddo Parish, Louisiana
- Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana
- Caldwell Parish, Louisiana
- Cameron Parish, Louisiana
- Catahoula Parish, Louisiana
- Claiborne Parish, Louisiana
- Concordia Parish, Louisiana
- DeSoto Parish, Louisiana
- East Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana
- East Carroll Parish, Louisiana
- East Feliciana Parish, Louisiana
- Evangeline Parish, Louisiana
- Franklin Parish, Louisiana
- Grant Parish, Louisiana
- Iberia Parish, Louisiana
- Iberville Parish, Louisiana
- Jackson Parish, Louisiana
- Jefferson Davis Parish, Louisiana
- Jefferson Parish, Louisiana
- Lafayette Parish, Louisiana
- Lafourche Parish, Louisiana
- LaSalle Parish, Louisiana
- Lincoln Parish, Louisiana
- Livingston Parish, Louisiana
- Madison Parish, Louisiana
- Morehouse Parish, Louisiana
- Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana
- Orleans Parish, Louisiana
- Ouachita Parish, Louisiana
- Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana
- Pointe Coupee Parish, Louisiana
- Rapides Parish, Louisiana
- Red River Parish, Louisiana
- Richland Parish, Louisiana
- Sabine Parish, Louisiana
- Saint Bernard Parish, Louisiana
- Saint Charles Parish, Louisiana
- Saint Helena Parish, Louisiana
- Saint James Parish, Louisiana
- Saint John the Baptist Parish, Louisiana
- Saint Landry Parish, Louisiana
- Saint Martin Parish, Louisiana
- Saint Mary Parish, Louisiana
- Saint Tammany Parish, Louisiana
- Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana
- Tensas Parish, Louisiana
- Terrebonne Parish, Louisiana
- Union Parish, Louisiana
- Vermilion Parish, Louisiana
- Vernon Parish, Louisiana
- Washington Parish, Louisiana
- Webster Parish, Louisiana
- West Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana
- West Carroll Parish, Louisiana
- West Feliciana Parish, Louisiana
- Winn Parish, Louisiana
1. Cameron Parish
Overview
Cameron Parish is the largest parish in Louisiana by land area, located in the southwestern part of the state, bordering the Gulf of Mexico to the south and Texas to the west. It is known for its vast wetlands, wildlife refuges, and coastal marshes, which make it a key location for commercial fishing, shrimping, and oil and gas production. The parish seat is Cameron, a small town that has faced significant challenges from hurricanes, most notably Hurricane Rita in 2005. Cameron Parish’s economy is driven by energy, fisheries, and tourism, with visitors attracted to the natural beauty of the area, including the Creole Nature Trail. Established in 1870, the parish was named after Simon Cameron, a U.S. Senator from Pennsylvania.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 6,500 (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: Cameron
- Major Airports: Lake Charles Regional Airport (nearby)
- Major Highways: LA-27, LA-82, LA-384
2. Vernon Parish
Overview
Vernon Parish is located in the west-central part of Louisiana, bordered by Sabine Parish to the west and Rapides Parish to the east. The parish seat is Leesville, a town that serves as a gateway to Fort Polk, one of the largest military installations in the United States. Vernon Parish’s economy is heavily influenced by Fort Polk, with military and civilian jobs being the primary economic drivers. The parish is also known for its forested areas and outdoor recreational opportunities, particularly in the Kisatchie National Forest. Established in 1871, Vernon Parish was named after Mount Vernon, the home of George Washington, and has a history tied to both logging and military development.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 47,000 (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: Leesville
- Major Airports: Leesville Municipal Airport, Alexandria International Airport (nearby)
- Major Highways: US-171, LA-28, LA-8
3. Caddo Parish
Overview
Caddo Parish is located in the northwestern corner of Louisiana, bordering Texas to the west and Arkansas to the north. The parish seat is Shreveport, which is the third-largest city in Louisiana and a major economic and cultural hub in the region. Caddo Parish’s economy is diverse, with sectors such as oil and gas, manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism playing significant roles. Shreveport is known for its casinos, riverfront attractions, and proximity to Barksdale Air Force Base. Established in 1838, Caddo Parish is named after the Caddo Native American tribe, who originally inhabited the area. The parish’s history is closely tied to the oil industry, which boomed in the early 20th century.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 237,000 (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: Shreveport
- Major Airports: Shreveport Regional Airport
- Major Highways: I-20, I-49, US-71, LA-1
4. Calcasieu Parish
Overview
Calcasieu Parish is located in southwestern Louisiana, bordered by the Gulf of Mexico to the south and Cameron Parish to the west. The parish seat is Lake Charles, a major industrial and petrochemical hub. Calcasieu Parish is home to large-scale oil refining, chemical production, and shipping industries, with the Port of Lake Charles playing a key role in its economy. The area is also known for its thriving cultural scene, including the Mardi Gras celebrations and outdoor recreation opportunities on the nearby lakes and rivers. Established in 1840, Calcasieu Parish was named after the Atakapa word for “crying eagle.” The parish has a history tied to both the energy industry and its natural beauty.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 216,000 (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: Lake Charles
- Major Airports: Lake Charles Regional Airport
- Major Highways: I-10, I-210, US-90, LA-14
5. East Baton Rouge Parish
Overview
East Baton Rouge Parish is located in southeastern Louisiana, bordered by West Baton Rouge Parish to the west and Livingston Parish to the east. The parish seat is Baton Rouge, the capital of Louisiana and the second-largest city in the state. East Baton Rouge Parish is a major center for government, education, and industry, with Louisiana State University and Southern University playing central roles in the economy. The parish also has a strong presence in the petrochemical industry, with refineries and plants located along the Mississippi River. Established in 1810, East Baton Rouge Parish has a rich history, from its early settlement to its role as the state’s capital.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 460,000 (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: Baton Rouge
- Major Airports: Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport
- Major Highways: I-10, I-12, I-110, US-61, US-190
6. Rapides Parish
Overview
Rapides Parish is located in central Louisiana, bordered by Grant Parish to the north and Avoyelles Parish to the southeast. The parish seat is Alexandria, a city known for its central location and role as a commercial hub for the surrounding region. Rapides Parish’s economy is based on healthcare, education, retail, and manufacturing. Alexandria serves as a regional center for healthcare services, with several hospitals and medical facilities. The parish is also known for its military presence, with nearby Fort Polk influencing the economy. Established in 1807, Rapides Parish has a rich history, including its role as a crossroads during the Civil War.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 128,000 (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: Alexandria
- Major Airports: Alexandria International Airport
- Major Highways: I-49, US-71, US-167
7. Ouachita Parish
Overview
Ouachita Parish is located in northeastern Louisiana, bordered by Union Parish to the north and Caldwell Parish to the south. The parish seat is Monroe, a city known for its role in the telecommunications industry, particularly as the headquarters of CenturyLink. Ouachita Parish’s economy is diverse, with industries such as telecommunications, healthcare, education, and retail. Monroe is home to the University of Louisiana at Monroe and is a regional center for higher education. Established in 1807, Ouachita Parish is named after the Ouachita River, which runs through the region and has been a vital part of its economic development.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 155,000 (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: Monroe
- Major Airports: Monroe Regional Airport
- Major Highways: I-20, US-165, US-80
8. Terrebonne Parish
Overview
Terrebonne Parish is located in southeastern Louisiana, bordered by Lafourche Parish to the east and the Gulf of Mexico to the south. The parish seat is Houma, a city known for its role in the oil and gas industry, as well as its cultural ties to Cajun and Creole heritage. Terrebonne Parish’s economy is heavily influenced by offshore oil drilling, shipbuilding, and commercial fishing, particularly shrimping and oysters. The parish is also known for its wetlands and bayous, which attract tourists for ecotourism and fishing. Established in 1822, Terrebonne Parish was named after the French word for “good land,” reflecting its fertile soils and natural resources.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 110,000 (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: Houma
- Major Airports: Houma-Terrebonne Airport
- Major Highways: US-90, LA-24, LA-56
9. Lafayette Parish
Overview
Lafayette Parish is located in south-central Louisiana, bordered by St. Landry Parish to the north and Vermilion Parish to the south. The parish seat is Lafayette, a city known for its vibrant Cajun culture, food, and music. Lafayette Parish’s economy is diverse, with industries such as oil and gas, healthcare, education, and tourism playing significant roles. The University of Louisiana at Lafayette is a major institution in the region, contributing to the local economy through education and research. Established in 1823, Lafayette Parish has a rich cultural history rooted in its French and Acadian heritage.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 244,000 (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: Lafayette
- Major Airports: Lafayette Regional Airport
- Major Highways: I-10, I-49, US-90
10. St. Tammany Parish
Overview
St. Tammany Parish is located in southeastern Louisiana, north of Lake Pontchartrain and bordering Mississippi to the east. The parish seat is Covington, though Slidell is the largest city in the parish. St. Tammany Parish is known for its suburban growth, particularly as a bedroom community for New Orleans. The parish’s economy is diverse, with sectors such as healthcare, education, retail, and tourism. Its location along the Northshore of Lake Pontchartrain makes it a popular destination for outdoor activities and weekend getaways. Established in 1810, St. Tammany Parish has seen rapid growth in recent decades due to its proximity to New Orleans and its high quality of life.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 270,000 (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: Covington
- Major Airports: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (nearby)
- Major Highways: I-12, I-10, I-59, US-190, US-11