Fresno vs Lake Charles
Fair Market Rent Comparison — HUD 2025 Data
Quick Answer
Lake Charles is 47% cheaper for renters. A 2-bedroom rents for $735/mo vs $1,083/mo in Fresno — saving $4,176/year.
Rent by Unit Size
| Unit Size | Fresno | Lake Charles | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $732 | $490 | $242 |
| 1 Bedroom | $890 | $592 | $298 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,083 | $735 | $348 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,294 | $930 | $364 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,619 | $984 | $635 |
| Median Income | $61,735 | $45,479 | $16,256 |
Fresno
- Studio
- $732/mo
- 1 BR
- $890/mo
- 2 BR
- $1,083/mo
- 3 BR
- $1,294/mo
- 4 BR
- $1,619/mo
- Median Income
- $61,735/yr
Lake Charles
- Studio
- $490/mo
- 1 BR
- $592/mo
- 2 BR
- $735/mo
- 3 BR
- $930/mo
- 4 BR
- $984/mo
- Median Income
- $45,479/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Fresno or Lake Charles cheaper to rent in?
Lake Charles is cheaper — a 2-bedroom Fair Market Rent is $735/mo vs $1,083/mo in Fresno. That's $348/mo or $4,176/year more expensive in Fresno (47% higher).
What is the 2-bedroom rent in Fresno vs Lake Charles?
The HUD Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom in Fresno is $1,083/month. In Lake Charles, a 2-bedroom FMR is $735/month.
How do incomes compare between Fresno and Lake Charles?
The median household income in Fresno is $61,735/year. In Lake Charles it is $45,479/year. Fresno has the higher median income.
What is the studio rent in Fresno vs Lake Charles?
A studio apartment Fair Market Rent in Fresno is $732/mo. In Lake Charles it is $490/mo.