I thought I was preaching the obvious, but when I introduced the idea of abandoning Louisiana, I was first met with hesitation and then eventual confessions from most but not quite all those who listened.
People genuinely see this state as a treasure, and I haven’t the slightest idea why.
Unlike anything I’ve ever written, I will state my opinion unfashionably: you should leave Louisiana.
I’m not exactly breaking new ground here. In 2024, The Center Square reported on the concerning number of high school graduates opting for out-of-state education.
Furthermore, from 2005 to 2020, Louisiana’s nine largest metropolitan areas lost 317,500 residents to other states. Many people are not settling for good food and culture, which is good for them.
What I found shocking was families who have generationally put up with issues ranging from potholes to political corruption.
It only takes one vacation to realize the obvious; however, nearly 900,000 people in Louisiana live below the federal poverty line, leaving them unable to afford a vacation.
Ask anyone why they love Louisiana, and, no shocker here, you’ll hear about the amazing culture and food–– spare me.
When I moved to Baton Rouge, I was urged to attend my first Mardi Gras “experience.” Everyone I talked to guaranteed a good time, yet I was welcomed by my own disappointment at watching floats drive past me, throwing cheap beads I had no use for.
The event is just standing there and catching beads, and if you’re sober, it’s a beyond lackluster experience.
When it comes to issues, the problems in Louisiana are the type that present themselves without asking. Anyone can see that the infrastructure needs help, desired jobs lead people out of the state, and poverty is widespread.
Even a great event like the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival was stained by the reminder of Louisiana’s crime problem as shots were fired in two locations within 10 minutes of one another.
The state’s pros don’t outweigh the cons of living here. People treat this state like a child who misbehaves but has a cute enough face to compel some mercy.
I’m sure you can figure out where I’m going with this, but I’ll present you with a sickening statistic anyway. Louisiana ranks 26th in population among U.S states yet has the second highest global incarceration rate per 100,000 people.
Experience tells you all you need to know. For example, if I told you that Louisiana ranked first in political convictions from 1997 to 2006, would you be surprised?
A statewide audit in February even revealed tens of millions of questionable government spending and tracking.
I know every state has its issues, but what is Louisiana offering you as a taxpayer? It’s not safety, a good economy or accessible health care. U.S News has ranked Louisiana as the 50th best state since 2023––at least we’re consistent.
I understand if your people are here and moving isn’t worth losing proximity to your family but someone’s gotta break the mold, especially if you come from a low income family, you’re better off leaving.
Louisiana is a state that is toxically controlled by its upper class. From the Krewes hosting exclusive balls that alienate the poor, to the normalization of private schools, Louisiana is the epitome of the socioeconomic divide.
Racial issues stretch nationwide, but if you’re wondering how Louisiana fares, research found that the median net worth of Black households in New Orleans was $14,000 compared to $185,000 for white households.
Families in great financial positions have a good case to stay. Reminiscent of the John Milton quote, “Better to reign in Hell than serve in Heaven,” Louisianian elites act as royalty in a state driven by lower income earners.
While I was hunting for an internship, I spoke to the owner of a Baton Rouge based issues firm and asked “Why is Louisiana so far behind?” The answer was because politicians and elites alike are more concerned with receiving credit for success than doing what’s best for everyone.
It’s a matter of if the pros outweigh the cons. Louisiana doesn’t have enough going for it to warrant dedicating your future to the state.
You can find good food and culture anywhere. There are so many alarming statistics concerning Louisiana that I encourage you to dig for yourself.
The state is lacking across a multitude of factors and it’s a disservice to yourself to not propose the possibility of finding a new home.
Mohammad Tantawi is a 24-year-old mass communication senior from Smyrna, Tenn.
