Living & Working in Alexandria
20.3%
AffordableModerateExpensive
AFFORDABLE (below the 30% threshold)
Housing Cost
20.3% of Income
Based on market salary data
Rent vs. Buy Analysis
Median home price is $199,000 . Buying analysis suggests favorable conditions for long-term residents due to stable prices.
Neighborhoods by Value & Commute
Garden District
URBAN100/100 Score
Rent Range$800/mo
Commute15 min to work
HVAC DemandHigh
Pineville
SUBURBAN100/100 Score
Rent Range$750/mo
Commute20 min to work
HVAC DemandMedium
Quick Decision Guide
Best Value
Pineville with rent under 30% of $50K salary
Shortest Commute
Garden District closest to work zones
Most HVAC Work
Garden District with highest service demand
Family Friendly
Pineville offers family-friendly neighborhoods with reasonable prices
Career Progression & Salary Guide
Entry Level
$25,000 - $35,000
Entry Level
Mid Level
$35,000 - $50,000
Experienced
Senior Level
$50,000 - $70,000
Senior
Major HVAC Employers
ACA Mechanical / Industrial
Known for: Competitive pay (average $30/hour for technicians), comprehensive training programs, and a focus on residential and commercial services.
Mechanical Concepts LLC
Known for: Career advancement opportunities, specialized commercial HVAC services, and a strong local reputation.
Today's Homeowner Recommended Companies
Known for: Work-life balance, customer-focused culture, and a variety of HVAC solutions.
Top-Rated School Districts in Alexandria, LA
- here Senior High School: Ranked among the best high schools in the area by U.S. News.
- Buckeye High School: Recognized for academic performance and equity by GreatSchools.
- Georgetown High School: Another top-rated option in the region.
Childcare Costs in Alexandria, LA
- Daycare: Monthly costs range from $500 to $1,200 per child, depending on the facility and age group. For state-assisted programs, refer to the Louisiana Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP).
- Nanny: Average rates are approximately $15–$20 per hour, translating to $2,400–$3,200 monthly for full-time care.
Recommended Pediatricians or Family Clinics
Financial Facts for Alexandria, LA
- State Income Tax Rate: Louisiana has a progressive income tax structure. For 2023, the rates are: - 2% on the first $12,500 of taxable income. - 4% on income between $12,501 and $50,000. - 6% on income above $50,001. Source: Louisiana Department of Revenue.
- Property Tax Average: The effective property tax rate in Louisiana is 0.55%, one of the lowest in the U.S. The median annual property tax payment is approximately $1,087. Source: SmartAsset.
- Cost of Living Compared to Baton Rouge: Alexandria's cost of living is approximately 10% lower than Baton Rouge, with housing costs being a significant contributor to the difference. Source: Bankrate Cost of Living Calculator.
- Growing Industries Creating Jobs: Key industries include healthcare, education, and logistics, with companies like Red River Bank headquartered in the area. The region
Essential HVAC Certifications
EPA Section 608 Universal
Local ProviderLSU of Alexandria Continuing Education at 8100 Hwy 71 South, here, LA 71302.
Cost$300 (includes study materials and exam fee).
Duration4 weeks (self-paced online).
ScheduleEnroll anytime, online format.
Contact(318) 427-4441 | Website.
NATE Certification
Testing CenterLSU-Alexandria, Student Center, Room 204, 8100 U.S. 71, here, LA 71302.
Cost$150 per specialty.
Prep CourseAvailable online through NATE.org.
Available SpecialtiesAir Conditioning, Heat Pumps, Gas Furnaces.
ContactWebsite.
LA HVAC Journeyman License
Requirements8,000 hours of experience + passing the state exam.
Exam LocationLSU-Alexandria, Student Center, Room 204, 8100 U.S. 71, here, LA 71302.
Cost$100 application fee + $150 exam fee.
Study ResourcesLouisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors (Website).
Local HVAC Training Programs
Central Louisiana Technical Community College (CLTCC)
ProgramAir Conditioning & Refrigeration Technician (12-month diploma).
Cost$4,500 total (financial aid available).
Financial AidPell Grant, Louisiana TOPS Tech