Destination Louisiana

This section will answer many of your questions regarding the life science industry in Louisiana, the state's economy, tax structure and cost of living, education, transportation, climate, recreational opportunities, history and more.

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Industry Overview | Economy/Cost of Living | Education
Recreation & Entertainment | Transportation | Geography & Climate
History | Suggested Reading List

The Pelican State, a land of bayous, Cajun and Creole cultures, vibrant music, Mardi Gras, alligators, amazing food, and rich history; this is Louisiana, whose motto "Union, justice, and confidence" describes the state’s ability to overcome its adversity and enter a new era.

Industry Snapshot

Louisiana shows great promise in becoming a center for biotechnology and life sciences. The Pelican State boasts prestigious academic institutions and organizations that aid it in this goal.

Economy/Cost of Living

Louisiana has a population of 4,287,768 people, ranking it 25th among the states in population size. The Pelican State’s largest cities are New Orleans, state capital Baton Rouge, Shreveport, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Kenner, Bossier City, Monroe, Alexandria, and New Iberia.

Education

Louisiana provides excellent opportunities for higher education. The Pelican State provides a large network of public institutions, as well as many esteemed private colleges and universities. Additionally, numerous community colleges exist in the state.

Recreation & Entertainment

Louisiana provides many opportunities for recreation and entertainment. Louisiana is famed for its vibrant mélange of cultures, its low-country allure, its exquisite foods, and abundant natural attractions. All throughout the Pelican State, adventures abound whether outdoor, urban, historical, or family-oriented.

Transportation

Louisiana’s primary mode of transportation is via highway. The state’s location in the Southern U.S. along the Gulf Coast places it along major Interstate corridors.

Geography & Climate

Louisiana is located in the Southern region of the United States. It contains 43,566 square miles of land, and 8,277 square miles are covered by water. The state’s total area of 51,843 square miles makes it the 31st largest among the United States. The Pelican State is bordered to the north by Arkansas, by the Gulf of Mexico to the south, to the east by Mississippi, and to the west by Texas.

History

The area now known as Louisiana was once inhabited by many Native American tribes. In 1541, Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto visited the region. Robert Cavelier claimed the Mississippi River valley for France in 1682, and named the land Louisiana after King Louis XIV of France.

Suggested Reading List

A list of select guides and reference books about Louisiana.