Updated 2026 · Based on median market data for Opelousas, LA
The median monthly rent in Opelousas, LA is $920, translating to $11,040 in annual gross rental income per unit. The rent-to-price ratio is 0.71% — below the 1% rule but within a range where deals can work with good financing.
Renters in Opelousas spend approximately 24% of the local median household income ($45,760) on rent. This is well below the 30% threshold, suggesting significant headroom for rent increases. Tenants can afford to pay more, which is bullish for landlords.
The vacancy rate in Opelousas is 6.7%. This is a healthy vacancy rate that indicates balanced supply and demand. You should be able to find quality tenants without extended vacancies, though expect normal turnover periods of 2-4 weeks between tenants. Population growth of 0.3% annually provides stable demand.
Opelousas's GRM (price divided by annual rent) is 11.8x. A GRM under 12x is excellent — it means you're paying less than 12 years of gross rent for the property, suggesting strong income relative to price. For comparison, the national average GRM for investment-grade rentals is approximately 13-15x.
At the median rent of $920/mo, a single-family rental in Opelousas generates approximately $11,040 in gross annual income. After accounting for 6.7% vacancy ($740 lost), property taxes of $702, insurance (~$520), and maintenance (~$520), the estimated NOI is $8,558 per year, or $713/mo.
Opelousas vs Louisiana state average and national average across key investment metrics. Opelousas outperforms both benchmarks on cap rate.