Lake Charles vs Panama City
Fair Market Rent Comparison — HUD 2025 Data
Quick Answer
Lake Charles is 20% cheaper for renters. A 2-bedroom rents for $735/mo vs $879/mo in Panama City — saving $1,728/year.
Rent by Unit Size
| Unit Size | Lake Charles | Panama City | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $490 | $571 | $81 |
| 1 Bedroom | $592 | $706 | $114 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $735 | $879 | $144 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $930 | $1,032 | $102 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $984 | $1,302 | $318 |
| Median Income | $45,479 | $44,385 | $1,094 |
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
Panama City
- Studio
- $571/mo
- 1 BR
- $706/mo
- 2 BR
- $879/mo
- 3 BR
- $1,032/mo
- 4 BR
- $1,302/mo
- Median Income
- $44,385/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lake Charles or Panama City cheaper to rent in?
Lake Charles is cheaper — a 2-bedroom Fair Market Rent is $735/mo vs $879/mo in Panama City. That's $144/mo or $1,728/year more expensive in Panama City (20% higher).
What is the 2-bedroom rent in Lake Charles vs Panama City?
The HUD Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom in Lake Charles is $735/month. In Panama City, a 2-bedroom FMR is $879/month.
How do incomes compare between Lake Charles and Panama City?
The median household income in Lake Charles is $45,479/year. In Panama City it is $44,385/year. Lake Charles has the higher median income.
What is the studio rent in Lake Charles vs Panama City?
A studio apartment Fair Market Rent in Lake Charles is $490/mo. In Panama City it is $571/mo.