Helena vs Lake Charles
Fair Market Rent Comparison — HUD 2025 Data
Quick Answer
Lake Charles is 17% cheaper for renters. A 2-bedroom rents for $735/mo vs $857/mo in Helena — saving $1,464/year.
Rent by Unit Size
| Unit Size | Helena | Lake Charles | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $577 | $490 | $87 |
| 1 Bedroom | $711 | $592 | $119 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $857 | $735 | $122 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,057 | $930 | $127 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,186 | $984 | $202 |
| Median Income | $47,790 | $45,479 | $2,311 |
Helena
- Studio
- $577/mo
- 1 BR
- $711/mo
- 2 BR
- $857/mo
- 3 BR
- $1,057/mo
- 4 BR
- $1,186/mo
- Median Income
- $47,790/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 Helena or Lake Charles cheaper to rent in?
Lake Charles is cheaper — a 2-bedroom Fair Market Rent is $735/mo vs $857/mo in Helena. That's $122/mo or $1,464/year more expensive in Helena (17% higher).
What is the 2-bedroom rent in Helena vs Lake Charles?
The HUD Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom in Helena is $857/month. In Lake Charles, a 2-bedroom FMR is $735/month.
How do incomes compare between Helena and Lake Charles?
The median household income in Helena is $47,790/year. In Lake Charles it is $45,479/year. Helena has the higher median income.
What is the studio rent in Helena vs Lake Charles?
A studio apartment Fair Market Rent in Helena is $577/mo. In Lake Charles it is $490/mo.