Louisiana Counties. List Alphabetically (and by Population)
How many counties are there in Louisiana? As of 2024, there are a total of 64 counties in the state of Louisiana. Among them, Ascension Parish is the oldest one (established in 1807) while Allen Parish is the youngest (established in 1912). With population of 440,171, East Baton Rouge Parish is the most populated. The biggest county by land area is Plaquemines Parish (6,291 km²) and the smallest is West Baton Rouge Parish (526 km²).
Largest Counties in Louisiana
1. Cameron Parish
Parish Seat: Cameron
- Area: 1,932 square miles
- Population: Approximately 6,973 (2020 census)
- Area Codes: 337
- Latitude: 29.9747° N
- Longitude: 93.3414° W
Location and History
Cameron Parish, located in the southwestern corner of Louisiana, is the largest parish by area in the state. Established in 1870, the parish was named after Simon Cameron, a U.S. Senator from Pennsylvania. Cameron, the parish seat, is a small community that has been heavily influenced by the oil and gas industries, as well as commercial fishing. The parish’s low population density and vast wetlands make it one of the most rural and least developed regions in Louisiana. Cameron Parish has been significantly impacted by hurricanes over the years, with Hurricane Audrey in 1957 and Hurricane Rita in 2005 causing widespread devastation.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Cameron Parish is served by Louisiana Highway 27, which runs north-south through the parish, and Louisiana Highway 82, which runs east-west along the coast. Key landmarks include the Sabine National Wildlife Refuge, one of the largest coastal marsh refuges in the United States, offering opportunities for birdwatching, fishing, and wildlife observation. The Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge, located in the southeastern part of the parish, is another significant natural area known for its conservation efforts and recreational opportunities. The parish is also home to the Creole Nature Trail, a scenic byway that offers views of Louisiana’s coastal wetlands, marshes, and wildlife.
2. Terrebonne Parish
Parish Seat: Houma
- Area: 1,255 square miles
- Population: Approximately 109,580 (2020 census)
- Area Codes: 985
- Latitude: 29.5958° N
- Longitude: 90.7195° W
Location and History
Terrebonne Parish is located in southern Louisiana, southwest of New Orleans. It was established in 1822 and named after the French word for “good earth,” reflecting the region’s fertile soil. Houma, the parish seat, developed as a center for the sugar cane industry in the 19th century and later became a hub for the oil and gas industries. The parish’s economy is heavily dependent on these industries, as well as commercial fishing and seafood processing. Terrebonne Parish is known for its rich Cajun culture, with a large proportion of the population being of French Acadian descent.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Terrebonne Parish is accessible via U.S. Route 90, which runs east-west through the northern part of the parish, and Louisiana Highways 24 and 311, which serve the Houma area. Significant landmarks include the Southdown Plantation House, a historic sugar plantation home that now serves as a museum, and the Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center, a venue for events and performances. The parish is also known for its extensive wetlands and bayous, which provide opportunities for fishing, boating, and eco-tourism. The annual Houma Mardi Gras celebration is one of the largest in Louisiana, drawing visitors with its parades, music, and cultural events.
3. Vermilion Parish
Parish Seat: Abbeville
- Area: 1,542 square miles
- Population: Approximately 57,999 (2020 census)
- Area Codes: 337
- Latitude: 29.9716° N
- Longitude: 92.1343° W
Location and History
Vermilion Parish is located in the southern part of Louisiana, along the Gulf of Mexico. The parish was established in 1844 and named after the Vermilion River, which flows through the region. Abbeville, the parish seat, was founded in 1843 by a French missionary and is known for its historic downtown and Cajun culture. The parish’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, with rice, sugarcane, and crawfish farming being major industries. The oil and gas industries also play a significant role in the parish’s economy, particularly in the coastal areas.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Vermilion Parish is served by U.S. Highway 167, which runs north-south through the parish, and Louisiana Highways 14 and 82. Notable landmarks include the Abbeville Cultural and Historical Alliance, which operates several museums and cultural centers in downtown Abbeville, and Palmetto Island State Park, a popular destination for camping, fishing, and hiking along the Vermilion River. The parish is also home to the Louisiana Military Hall of Fame and Museum, which honors the contributions of Louisiana veterans. The annual Giant Omelette Celebration in Abbeville, where a giant omelet is cooked in the town square, celebrates the town’s French heritage.
4. Plaquemines Parish
Parish Seat: Pointe à la Hache
- Area: 2,429 square miles
- Population: Approximately 23,042 (2020 census)
- Area Codes: 504
- Latitude: 29.5789° N
- Longitude: 89.7910° W
Location and History
Plaquemines Parish is located at the southeastern tip of Louisiana, encompassing the Mississippi River delta and extending into the Gulf of Mexico. Established in 1807, the parish’s name comes from the Native American word “piakimin,” meaning persimmons, which were once abundant in the area. Pointe à la Hache, the parish seat, is a small, historic community that has faced challenges from natural disasters and coastal erosion. The parish is heavily influenced by its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, with industries such as commercial fishing, oil and gas, and shipping playing major roles in its economy.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Plaquemines Parish is accessible via Louisiana Highway 23, which runs the length of the parish from Belle Chasse to Venice at the southern tip. Significant landmarks include Fort Jackson and Fort St. Philip, both historic forts that played roles in the War of 1812 and the Civil War. The parish is also known for its rich fishing grounds, particularly for oysters, shrimp, and redfish. The annual Plaquemines Parish Fair and Orange Festival celebrates the region’s agricultural heritage with citrus-themed events, music, and food. The parish is also a popular destination for birdwatching and eco-tourism, with several wildlife management areas and refuges.
5. St. Martin Parish
Parish Seat: St. Martinville
- Area: 1,319 square miles
- Population: Approximately 51,767 (2020 census)
- Area Codes: 337
- Latitude: 30.1256° N
- Longitude: 91.8302° W
Location and History
St. Martin Parish is located in south-central Louisiana, known for its deep ties to Cajun culture and history. Established in 1811, the parish was named after St. Martin of Tours, the patron saint of France. St. Martinville, the parish seat, is often referred to as the “Mother Town of the Acadians” due to its historical significance as a center for Acadian settlement after the expulsion from Canada. The parish’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, with rice, sugarcane, and crawfish farming being major industries. The oil and gas industry also plays a significant role, particularly in the western part of the parish.
Major Highways and Landmarks
St. Martin Parish is served by U.S. Highway 90, which runs east-west through the southern part of the parish, and Interstate 10, which runs through the northern part. Key landmarks include the Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site in St. Martinville, which commemorates the Acadian culture and the famous poem “Evangeline” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. The Atchafalaya Basin, one of the largest wetlands in the United States, is partially located in St. Martin Parish and offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. The parish is also known for its annual Pepper Festival in St. Martinville, celebrating the local agricultural industry with food, music, and cultural events.
6. Tangipahoa Parish
Parish Seat: Amite City
- Area: 823 square miles
- Population: Approximately 134,758 (2020 census)
- Area Codes: 985
- Latitude: 30.7279° N
- Longitude: 90.5117° W
Location and History
Tangipahoa Parish is located in southeastern Louisiana, between Baton Rouge and New Orleans. Established in 1869, the parish’s name comes from the Native American word “Tangipahoa,” meaning “ear of corn” or “those who gather corn.” Amite City, the parish seat, developed as a center for agriculture and trade in the 19th century. The parish’s economy is diverse, with agriculture, manufacturing, and retail playing significant roles. The proximity to both Baton Rouge and New Orleans has also contributed to the parish’s growth as a residential and commercial area.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Tangipahoa Parish is intersected by Interstate 55, which runs north-south through the parish, and Interstate 12, which runs east-west. U.S. Routes 51 and 190 also serve the region. Significant landmarks include the Louisiana Renaissance Festival in Hammond, which attracts visitors from across the region with its themed entertainment and events. The parish is also home to Southeastern Louisiana University, located in Hammond, which is a major educational and cultural hub. The Tangipahoa Parish Fair in Amite City is one of the oldest fairs in Louisiana, celebrating the region’s agricultural heritage with exhibits, livestock shows, and entertainment.
7. Rapides Parish
Parish Seat: Alexandria
- Area: 1,362 square miles
- Population: Approximately 130,023 (2020 census)
- Area Codes: 318
- Latitude: 31.3113° N
- Longitude: 92.4451° W
Location and History
Rapides Parish is located in central Louisiana, in the heart of the state. Established in 1807, the parish was named after the French word for “rapids,” referring to the rapids in the Red River. Alexandria, the parish seat, is one of the largest cities in the region and serves as a major economic, cultural, and transportation hub. The parish’s economy is diverse, with agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, and military activities playing significant roles. Camp Beauregard, a major U.S. Army training facility, is located in the parish and contributes to the local economy.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Rapides Parish is served by Interstate 49, which runs north-south through the parish, connecting Alexandria to Shreveport and Lafayette. U.S. Routes 71 and 167 also run through the parish. Key landmarks include the Alexandria Zoological Park, which is home to a wide variety of animal species and is a popular destination for families. The Kent Plantation House, a historic French Creole plantation house, offers tours and exhibits on the region’s history. The parish is also home to the annual Mardi Gras celebration in Alexandria, which features parades, music, and cultural events. The Kisatchie National Forest, located partially within the parish, offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife observation.
8. Iberia Parish
Parish Seat: New Iberia
- Area: 1,031 square miles
- Population: Approximately 69,929 (2020 census)
- Area Codes: 337
- Latitude: 29.9513° N
- Longitude: 91.7503° W
Location and History
Iberia Parish is located in southern Louisiana, along the Gulf of Mexico. Established in 1868, the parish was named after the Iberian Peninsula, reflecting the Spanish heritage of many of the early settlers. New Iberia, the parish seat, was founded in 1779 by Spanish colonists and has a rich cultural history influenced by French, Spanish, and Creole traditions. The parish’s economy is based on agriculture, with sugarcane and rice being major crops, as well as the oil and gas industries. Iberia Parish is also known for its seafood industry, particularly shrimp and crawfish.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Iberia Parish is accessible via U.S. Highway 90, which runs east-west through the parish, and Louisiana Highway 14, which serves the New Iberia area. Notable landmarks include the Shadows-on-the-Teche, a historic antebellum home in New Iberia that offers tours and exhibits on the region’s history. Avery Island, located in the southern part of the parish, is home to the Tabasco sauce factory and the Jungle Gardens, a 170-acre botanical garden and bird sanctuary. The parish is also known for its annual Sugar Cane Festival in New Iberia, which celebrates the local agricultural industry with parades, music, and cultural events.
9. St. Landry Parish
Parish Seat: Opelousas
- Area: 939 square miles
- Population: Approximately 82,540 (2020 census)
- Area Codes: 337
- Latitude: 30.5332° N
- Longitude: 92.3485° W
Location and History
St. Landry Parish is located in central Louisiana, west of the Atchafalaya Basin. Established in 1807, the parish was named after St. Landry of Paris, a 7th-century bishop. Opelousas, the parish seat, is one of the oldest European settlements in Louisiana, founded in 1720 as a trading post. The parish has a rich cultural history, with a strong influence from French, African, and Creole traditions. The economy of St. Landry Parish is primarily based on agriculture, with cotton, soybeans, and rice being major crops. The parish is also known for its contributions to Zydeco music, a genre rooted in the Creole and Cajun traditions.
Major Highways and Landmarks
St. Landry Parish is served by Interstate 49, which runs north-south through the parish, connecting it to Alexandria and Lafayette. U.S. Route 190 also runs through the parish. Significant landmarks include the St. Landry Catholic Church in Opelousas, one of the oldest churches in Louisiana, and the Creole Heritage Folklife Center, which offers exhibits on the history and culture of the Creole people. The parish is also home to the annual Zydeco Festival in Plaisance, which celebrates the unique music and culture of the region. The nearby Evangeline Downs Racetrack and Casino is a popular destination for horse racing and entertainment.
10. Natchitoches Parish
Parish Seat: Natchitoches
- Area: 1,299 square miles
- Population: Approximately 38,158 (2020 census)
- Area Codes: 318
- Latitude: 31.7607° N
- Longitude: 93.0863° W
Location and History
Natchitoches Parish is located in northwestern Louisiana and is the oldest parish in the state, established in 1807. The parish was named after the Natchitoches Native American tribe, and the city of Natchitoches, the parish seat, was founded in 1714 as a French trading post. Natchitoches is known for its well-preserved historic district, which features French Creole architecture and cobblestone streets. The parish’s economy is diverse, with agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism playing significant roles. The presence of Northwestern State University in Natchitoches also contributes to the local economy and cultural life.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Natchitoches Parish is accessible via Interstate 49, which runs north-south through the parish, and U.S. Highway 71, which provides access to the city of Natchitoches. Notable landmarks include the Cane River National Heritage Area, which preserves the cultural and historical heritage of the region, including the Melrose Plantation and the Magnolia Plantation. The city of Natchitoches is famous for its annual Christmas Festival, one of the oldest and most popular holiday events in Louisiana, featuring fireworks, parades, and light displays. The parish is also home to the Natchitoches National Fish Hatchery, which offers educational exhibits and outdoor activities related to fish and wildlife conservation.
List of All Counties in Louisiana Alphabetically
Below please see all Louisiana counties which are listed in alphabetical order.
- Acadia Parish, LA
- Allen Parish, LA
- Ascension Parish, LA
- Assumption Parish, LA
- Avoyelles Parish, LA
- Beauregard Parish, LA
- Bienville Parish, LA
- Bossier Parish, LA
- Caddo Parish, LA
- Calcasieu Parish, LA
- Caldwell Parish, LA
- Cameron Parish, LA
- Catahoula Parish, LA
- Claiborne Parish, LA
- Concordia Parish, LA
- DeSoto Parish, LA
- East Baton Rouge Parish, LA
- East Carroll Parish, LA
- East Feliciana Parish, LA
- Evangeline Parish, LA
- Franklin Parish, LA
- Grant Parish, LA
- Iberia Parish, LA
- Iberville Parish, LA
- Jackson Parish, LA
- Jefferson Parish, LA
- Jefferson Davis Parish, LA
- Lafayette Parish, LA
- Lafourche Parish, LA
- LaSalle Parish, LA
- Lincoln Parish, LA
- Livingston Parish, LA
- Madison Parish, LA
- Morehouse Parish, LA
- Natchitoches Parish, LA
- Orleans Parish, LA
- Ouachita Parish, LA
- Plaquemines Parish, LA
- Pointe Coupee Parish, LA
- Rapides Parish, LA
- Red River Parish, LA
- Richland Parish, LA
- Sabine Parish, LA
- Saint Bernard Parish, LA
- Saint Charles Parish, LA
- Saint Helena Parish, LA
- Saint James Parish, LA
- Saint John the Baptist Parish, LA
- Saint Landry Parish, LA
- Saint Martin Parish, LA
- Saint Mary Parish, LA
- Saint Tammany Parish, LA
- Tangipahoa Parish, LA
- Tensas Parish, LA
- Terrebonne Parish, LA
- Union Parish, LA
- Vermilion Parish, LA
- Vernon Parish, LA
- Washington Parish, LA
- Webster Parish, LA
- West Baton Rouge Parish, LA
- West Carroll Parish, LA
- West Feliciana Parish, LA
- Winn Parish, LA
Map of Louisiana Counties
