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Alexandria, LA

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Alexandria, LA

Alexandria is the ninth-largest city in the state of Louisiana and is the parish seat of Rapides Parish, Louisiana, United States. It lies on the south bank of the Red River in almost the exact geographic center of the state. It is the principal city of the Alexandria metropolitan area (population 153,922) which encompasses all of Rapides and Grant parishes. Its neighboring city is Pineville. In 2010, the population was 47,723, an increase of 3 percent from the 2000 census.

Located along the Red River, the city of Alexandria was originally home to a community that supported activities of the adjacent French trader outpost of Post du Rapides. The area developed as an assemblage of traders, Caddo people, and merchants in the agricultural lands bordering the mostly unsettled areas to the north and providing a link from the south to the El Camino Real and then the larger settlement of Natchitoches, the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana Purchase.

Alexander Fulton, a businessman from Washington County, near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, received a land grant from Spain in 1762, and the first organized settlement was made at some point in the 1780s. In 1805, Fulton and business partner Thomas Harris Maddox laid out the town plan and named the town in Fulton's honor. The earliest deed that survives for an Alexandria resident is from June 24, 1801, when William Cochren, who identifies himself as "Slave master of the Southern Americas", sold a tract of land across the Red River to William Murrey.

That same year, Fulton was appointed coroner in Rapides Parish by territorial Governor William C.C. Claiborne. Alexandria was incorporated as a town in 1818 and received a city charter in 1832.

Alexandria is located at 31°17′34″N 92°27′33″W and has an elevation of 75 feet (22.9 m).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 27.0 square miles (69.9 km2), of which 26.4 square miles (68.4 km2) is land and 0.6 square miles (1.5 km2) (2.15%) is water.

Health and wellness thrive in Alexandria, Louisiana, with the city providing access to essential medical services through prominent healthcare institutions like Rapides Regional Medical Center. As a leading hospital in Central Louisiana, Rapides Regional Medical Center offers a wide range of healthcare services, including emergency care, specialized treatments, and outpatient services, ensuring residents receive high-quality medical care close to home. Additionally, Alexandria boasts scenic natural surroundings, with the majestic Red River winding through the city and picturesque parks offering recreational opportunities. Community Fitness Classes are held in local parks and recreation centers to stay active and healthy. Outdoor Yoga Sessions experience the benefits of yoga amidst the natural beauty of Alexandria with outdoor yoga sessions. Nutrition Workshops focused on nutrition and healthy eating habits to improve overall well-being. Alexandria Farmers Market supports local farmers and access fresh, locally-grown produce. Health Screenings and Wellness Fairs prioritize preventive care and stay informed about your health. Alexandria Walking and Biking Trails walking and biking trails to enjoy outdoor exercise and connect with nature.

The top Sites in Alexandria, LA are the Alexandria Museum of Art, Kent Plantation House, and Alexandria Zoological Park.

Population: 44,004 (2022). ZIP Codes: 71301-03, 06–07, 09, 11, 15. Area codes: 318 Area: 29.18 sq mi (75.58 km2).
 

FAQs

Is Alexandria, LA a big city?

Alexandria is a city in the state of Louisiana. It is the largest city in the Central Louisiana region, the ninth-largest in the state, and the parish seat of Rapides Parish. Alexandria was incorporated in 1818. In 2020, about 45,000 people lived there.

Is there anything to do in Alexandria, Louisiana?

From museums and zoos to outdoor recreation and historical sites, there is something to do for area residents, and visitors alike. The city also enjoys annual events such as the Louisiana Dragon Boat Races, Holiday Trail of Lights, the Louisiana Elvis Festival, and the Alex River Fete. Popular every year are the Mardi Gras festivities and parades sponsored by the Alexandria Mardi Gras Association. WinterFETE is held in December in downtown Alexandria. An assortment of events is typically scheduled, including the Alexandria Christmas Parade, ice skating, Santa's Village, fireworks, food vendors, gumbo cook-off, live music, and much more.

What is the cost of living in Alexandria, LA?

A typical home costs $153,000, which is 54.7% less expensive than the national average of $338,100 and 17.2% less expensive than the average Louisiana home, at $184,800. Renting a two-bedroom unit in Alexandria costs $920 per month, which is 35.7% cheaper than the national average of $1,430 and 8.7% cheaper than the state average of $1,000. To live comfortably in Alexandria, Louisiana, a minimum annual income of $29,160 for a family, and $28,000 for a single person is recommended.

Sources

Wikipedia

City of Alexandria

Rapides Regional Medical Center

Red River

Nutrition Workshops

Alexandria Farmers Market

Health Screenings and Wellness Fairs

Alexandria Walking and Biking Trails

Alexandria Museum of Art 

Kent Plantation House

Alexandria Zoological Park

Best Places

Alexandria Louisiana

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