| Statistic | Opelousas | Louisiana | National |
| Population | 16,687 | 4,648,794 | 328,239,523 |
| Population density (sq mi) | 1,726 | 108 | 91 |
| Median age | 36.2 | 36.2 | 37.7 |
| Male/Female ratio | 0.9:1 | 1.0:1 | 1.0:1 |
| Married (15yrs & older) | 45% | 52% | 55% |
| Families w/ Kids under 18 | 46% | 43% | 43% |
| Speak English | 96% | 92% | 79% |
| Speak Spanish | 1% | 4% | 13% |
The population of Opelousas is 16,687, with a population density of 1,726 people per square mile, diverging from the national average of 91. The median age is 36.2 and 45% of individuals aged 15 or older are married, while 46% have children under 18. As far as income equality in Opelousas goes, 39% of households have a median income below $25,000, whereas 5% report an income exceeding $150,000. The Opelousas demographics data can provide indispensable insights into the composition, dynamics and needs of cities, towns or even villages, empowering planners, developers and policymakers to devise strategies that foster prosperity, equity and well-being for all residents.
The Opelousas racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown serves as a critical tool for understanding and addressing systemic inequities, promoting social justice and inclusion and building stronger, more resilient communities. The racial breakdown in Opelousas is 21% White, 77.1% Black or African American, 0% Asian, 0.4% American Indian and 0% Native Hawaiian - 1.1% of the population identify as Hispanic or Latino. Of all households, 96.4% reported speaking English only, while 0.5% reported speaking Spanish only. A total of 0.2% of residents were considered foreign born.
Communities such as Opelousas, with population densities higher than the average, play a significant role in promoting environmental sustainability by decreasing per capita energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and land use. Their compact urban development encourages the adoption of energy-efficient buildings, walking, cycling, and public transportation, fostering sustainable lifestyles and minimizing environmental impact. Additionally, densely populated areas tend to cultivate vibrant social and cultural scenes, fueled by a diverse population that contributes to a myriad of cultural events, festivals and community activities. This cultural diversity sparks creativity, innovation and cross-cultural exchange, enriching the social fabric of the community. Opelousas has a population density of 1,726, surpassing the national average of 91 people per square mile, as it stands poised to reap the benefits of dense urban living.
Healthcare Planning: The analysis of Opelousas demographics can offer insights into healthcare planning and delivery, identifying population health needs, disparities and risk factors. By understanding demographic trends, healthcare providers and policymakers can allocate resources effectively, develop prevention and intervention programs and address health inequities within communities. Through the use of demographic data and statistics, healthcare providers and policymakers aim to achieve equitable, accessible and high-quality healthcare for all individuals and communities. This proactive approach to healthcare planning ensures targeted interventions, efficient resource allocation and customized healthcare services to meet the diverse needs of populations.
Urban Development: Urban planners can leverage demographics data in Opelousas to design and develop areas that cater to residents' needs, spanning housing, transportation, and public services, while prioritizing sustainability and enhancing quality of life. Demographic changes can contribute to gentrification and neighborhood evolution, whether in urban or rural contexts. As neighborhoods attract new residents with diverse income levels and lifestyle preferences, property values may appreciate, potentially displacing longstanding residents and reshaping the neighborhood's identity. Understanding population density, age distribution, household size and income levels is essential for guiding decisions on zoning, transportation infrastructure, housing development and public amenities. Incorporating Opelousas demographics data into planning and implementing affordable housing initiatives can help mitigate displacement risks.
Understanding Populations: The examination and analysis of Opelousas demographic data can offer valuable insights into the composition and traits of populations, including age, gender, race, ethnicity, income, education and various socio-economic factors. This understanding is essential for addressing the varied needs, preferences, and challenges faced by different demographic groups within communities. Demographics hold significant importance in understanding populations, guiding decision-making processes and promoting equity, inclusion, and overall well-being for all individuals and communities. The Opelousas population data serves as a cornerstone for addressing social, economic and environmental challenges, while also fostering the well-being and resilience of societies.
| Race | Opelousas | Louisiana | National |
| White | 20.97% | 62.62% | 73.35% |
| Black | 77.14% | 32.16% | 12.63% |
| Asian | 0.00% | 1.69% | 5.22% |
| American Indian | 0.38% | 0.57% | 0.82% |
| Native Hawaiian | 0.00% | 0.03% | 0.18% |
| Mixed race | 0.97% | 1.83% | 3.06% |
| Other race | 0.53% | 1.09% | 4.75% |
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